MICROGREENS – BENEFITS, NUTRITION & HOW TO GROW THEM

GROWING MICROGREENS AT HOME

I normally buy microgreens in a farmer’s market as they are so fresh. I  go for broccoli, pea, or radish and the seller cuts them fresh for me. If there is no farmers market around, I also buy microgreens like sunflower and Alfalfa  in supermarkets or organic shops.

If you can’t get hold of microgreens or find them too expensive, here is a quick guide on how to grow microgreens at home. 

Things you will need:

• Seeds: Choose seeds specifically labelled for microgreens to ensure high germination rates. For better nutrition, choose organic, non-GMO seeds. 
• Growing Tray: An ideal growing tray is a shallow tray with drainage holes. You can use a seedling tray or a repurposed shallow container.
• Growing Medium: Use soil, coconut coir, or a special microgreen mat.
• Water Spray Bottle: For gentle watering, try getting a mist bottle that sprays water very gently. 
• Light: Natural sunlight or a grow light.
• OPTIONAL, Plastic Dome or Cover: to create a greenhouse effect and maintain moisture during germination. 

There are a few nice options on Amazon, where you can buy a whole kit. Just read the reviews, as some products can be not the best or overly expensive.

Step-by-step guide on how to grow microgreens at home:

1. 1. Prepare the Tray:
      • Fill the tray with your growing medium. If using soil, ensure it is moist but not waterlogged.
   2. Sow the Seeds:
      • Scatter the seeds evenly across the surface, making sure they are not piled on top of each other.Gently press the seeds into the growing medium.  
   3. Water the Seeds:
      • Use a spray bottle to lightly mist the seeds with water. Keep the growing medium moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to mould.
   4. Cover the Tray (Optional):
      • Cover the tray with a plastic dome or another tray to create a humid environment. This helps with germination. Remove the cover once the seeds start to sprout.
   5. Provide Light:
      • Place the tray in a location with lots of natural light, like a windowsill or under a grow light. Microgreens need at least 4-6 hours of light per day.
      • If using artificial light, keep it about 12 inches or 30 centimetres above the tray.
   6. Water Regularly:
      • Continue to mist the microgreens daily to keep the growing medium moist, but be careful not to overwater.
   7. Harvest:
      • Microgreens are typically ready to harvest in 7-21 days, depending on the variety. They are ready when they have developed their first true leaves (the second set of leaves).
      • Use scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line.
      • Rinse the harvested microgreens thoroughly and enjoy!
2. 8. Store:
3. • Dry them thoroughly using a salad spinner, or pat them dry with a clean paper towel. Ensuring they are dry helps prevent mould and extends their shelf life.
   • Use an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid or resealable plastic bags.
   • Place a dry paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.
   • Keep the containers in the fridge. 
   • Try to use them within a week for most nutrition and freshness

Freezing is not ideal for microgreens as it affects their texture, but if you have too much to eat and don’t want to waste, you can still freeze them. Just blend them in smoothies or soups more for nutrition rather than texture. 

Tips for Success:

• Start Small: Begin with one or two types to get the hang of the process.
• Experiment: Try different seed varieties to find which ones you enjoy the most and which grow best in your conditions.
• Cleanliness: Keep everything clean to prevent mould and contamination.
• Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation around the growing area to prevent mould.

Growing microgreens is a perfect introduction if you want to start growing your food. It is an easy and quick way to get a lot of nutrition in your diet. I bought Alfalfa seeds for the first go and will keep this article updated if I learn new tricks or make mistakes.