“Discover the Magic of Year-Round Indoor Gardening with Microgreens”
Microgreens are a fantastic choice for home gardeners because they are easy to grow and require minimal space. These tiny, nutrient-packed greens can be cultivated in small trays or containers on a windowsill, making them suitable even for urban environments. With a quick growth cycle of approximately two weeks, you can enjoy a fresh harvest in no time. Additionally, microgreens can be grown throughout the year, allowing you to add a variety of flavors and textures to your dishes regardless of the season. Whether you want to enhance your salads, sandwiches, or smoothies, cultivating microgreens at home is a fulfilling (and tasty!) endeavor. Here, gardening experts provide valuable tips on growing microgreens year-round in the convenience of your own home.
Meet the Experts:
– Tara Ghook, co-owner of Joyful Sprouts Organic Farm in Bucksport, Maine
– Eric Nieusma, owner of Maine Hill Farm, an organic and regenerative grower
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young plants grown to their cotyledon stage, which is when the first leaves emerge from the seed. These initial leaves serve as a temporary food source for the developing plant (known as the seed leaf), explains Tara Ghook from Joyful Sprouts Organic Farm. In essence, microgreens are the early stages of vegetables and herbs like broccoli, kale, and arugula. Ghook points out that every seed starts as a sprout and progresses into a microgreen. If allowed to continue growing, it matures into the final fruit, vegetable, nut, or legume that is harvested when fully ripe.
How to Grow Microgreens
Different microgreens have distinct characteristics, so Ghook suggests following the specific instructions on each seed packet and opting for organic seeds for the best quality. However, she outlines the following steps as a general guideline for growing microgreens.
Supplies Needed:
– Organic microgreen seeds
– Planting tray or container (10 by 20 grow trays work well)
– Well-draining growing medium (such as finely sifted potting soil with amendments or soilless medium blends like coconut coir, hemp mats, or pro-mix)
– Germination heat mats (not required if the room temperature is 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit)
– Light misting spray bottle
Instructions:
1. Fill planting trays or containers with finely sifted growing medium.
2. Lightly moisten the growing medium with a spray bottle set to fine mist.
3. Sprinkle the microgreen seeds over the medium, ensuring they are not overcrowded to prevent mold.
4. Lightly mist the seeds.
5. Place the grow tray or containers on the germination mat at the appropriate heating temperature.
6. Cover the seeds to shield them from light.
7. Uncover the seeds after three to five days.
8. Expose the seeds to bright, indirect sunlight or use grow lights.
How to Care
The practice of bottom-watering is highly recommended when cultivating microgreens, as it aids in the prevention of mold formation by ensuring that water does not get trapped in the shells of the seeds. This is particularly crucial for crops such as sunflowers and buckwheat. When it comes to soil, it is imperative to use well-draining soil that is light and airy for optimum growth of microgreens. Ghook emphasizes the importance of proper aeration for the fragile roots during the initial stage to aid in their expansion and establishment.
In terms of fertilization, microgreens do not necessitate heavy fertilization due to their quick harvesting cycle. However, incorporating worm castings or worm tea can facilitate faster growth of the greens. Harvesting microgreens is typically done when the stems reach a length of about 2 inches and the first set of small leaves have developed, as advised by Eric Nieusma of Maine Hill Farm. To harvest, delicately grasp a small bunch of stems between your index finger and thumb, and cut the microgreens with scissors just above the soil.
For storage, Nieusma suggests leaving the microgreens uncut in the soil. If cutting is preferred, handle the microgreens gently and refrain from washing them. Store the cut microgreens loosely in a sealable container, placing a paper towel at the bottom or on top to absorb excess moisture. Avoid using oversized containers to prevent unnecessary air and moisture accumulation. Keeping microgreens in the refrigerator will help maintain their freshness for an extended period, with some varieties staying fresh for two to three weeks if stored correctly.
While microgreens are generally hassle-free to grow, there are common mistakes to be cautious of during the cultivation process. Incorrect watering techniques, such as watering from above, can lead to bending or sagging of the stems. Nieusma recommends bottom watering as a suitable alternative. Additionally, ensuring the right amount of sunlight without overexposure is crucial for optimal growth. Positioning a fluorescent grow light approximately 6 inches away from the microgreens is deemed adequate. Temperature also plays a vital role in seed germination, and maintaining an appropriate room temperature or utilizing a seedling mat is key according to Nieusma. Insufficient airflow can cause sprouts to wilt, so providing ample open space around the growing container is advised.
When it comes to differentiating between microgreens and sprouts, it is important to note that sprouts are germinated in water, while microgreens are grown in soil. Microgreens typically take one to three weeks to grow, depending on the variety, whereas sprouts can be ready in three to seven days. Microgreens do not regrow after being harvested, as they are typically picked before developing a strong root system or “true” leaves. While regular potting soil can be used for growing microgreens, it is advisable to steer clear of soils high in compost or fertilizers, as young plants do not require excessive nutrients for growth.
