How Do Microgreens Grow?
Microgreens are one of the fastest-growing and most nutritious plants you can cultivate, offering a vibrant addition to any meal. These tiny plants pack a punch in terms of flavor, nutrition, and versatility. But how exactly do microgreens grow? In this post, we’ll take you through the essential steps of growing microgreens—from seed to harvest.
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by Miniature Harvest
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are the young, edible seedlings of various vegetables, herbs, and greens, harvested just after the first true leaves (called cotyledons) have developed. Unlike fully grown plants, microgreens are small and packed with nutrients, making them perfect for adding a nutrient-dense boost to your dishes. Some common microgreens include broccoli, pea shoots, sunflower, radish, and arugula.
The Process of Growing Microgreens
While growing microgreens is simple, it does require attention to detail to ensure they thrive. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how they grow:
- Selecting Seeds
- Preparing the Growing Medium
- Planting the Seeds
- Watering and Maintaining Moisture
- Providing Light
- Germination and Growth
- Harvesting
- Enjoying Your Microgreens
1. Selecting Seeds
The first step in growing microgreens is choosing the right seeds. Microgreens can be grown from a wide variety of seeds, including vegetables like broccoli, radishes, and beets, as well as herbs like basil, cilantro, and arugula. It’s important to choose high-quality, non-GMO seeds for the best results.
At Miniature Harvest, we use carefully selected varieties that grow well in our controlled environments and produce the freshest, most flavorful microgreens.
2. Preparing the Growing Medium
Microgreens can be grown in soil or hydroponically, depending on your preference. The growing medium must be loose and well-draining to allow the roots to develop properly. Common growing mediums include:
- Coconut coir: A natural fiber derived from coconuts, ideal for retaining moisture and promoting healthy root development.
- Soil: Some people prefer using organic potting soil for its nutrient-rich composition.
- Hydroponics: This method uses water and a nutrient solution instead of soil, ideal for those who prefer a soil-free method of growing.
If you’re growing indoors, a shallow tray or container works best for microgreens, as they don’t need deep soil to grow.
3. Planting the Seeds
Once you have your growing medium ready, it’s time to plant the seeds. For most microgreens, the process is straightforward:
- Spread the seeds evenly over the surface of the growing medium.
- Make sure the seeds aren’t too crowded, as they need some space to grow and develop.
- Press the seeds gently into the soil with a flat surface or your hand to ensure good contact with the growing medium.
For soil-grown microgreens, you may want to lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil to encourage better germination.
4. Watering and Maintaining Moisture
Microgreens need consistent moisture, but they don’t like to sit in waterlogged soil. To achieve the best results:
- Water gently using a spray bottle or a fine-mist watering can to avoid displacing the seeds.
- Keep the growing medium moist but not soggy. Too much water can lead to mold growth or rotting.
- If growing in trays, ensure good drainage to prevent standing water.
Final Thoughts: Growing Microgreens
Growing microgreens is an easy, rewarding way to enjoy fresh, nutritious greens year-round. Whether you’re growing them indoors or outdoors, they require minimal space and resources, making them perfect for small apartments or urban environments.
At Miniature Harvest, we specialize in using sustainable growing techniques to cultivate the freshest, most flavorful microgreens possible. Whether you’re looking to start your own microgreen garden or want to add them to your menu, we’re here to help you incorporate these nutrient-packed greens into your life.
