Learning Download: How to Grow Microgreens

Microgreens are a quick, delicate and nutrient-rich crop that can be added to salads or eaten fresh. Microgreens are useful as they required little space, time and expertise to grow. Microgreens are similar to sprouts, although only the delicate greens are eaten and not the germinated seed.

Before Planting: Ideal soil temperature is 75°F until germination, then reduced to 60°F for growing. Temperatures above 75° can increase disease pressure and inhibit germination. Grow on potting mix or soilless medium of your choice in shallow trays.

Planting: Broadcast seed thickly on the media surface with seeds 1/8- 1/4″ apart, press seeds firmly into media for maximum soil contact, and cover lightly with sowing mix, vermiculite, or humidity dome. Microgreens can be germinated on heat mats, in germination chambers, or on greenhouse benches or floors.

Watering: Bottom water or mist to prevent sowing mix from splashing on the seedlings. Maintain even moisture and do not allow sowing medium to dry out.

Fertilizer: Most medias will have some form of nutrient which should be enough for growing microgreens to size, such as potting mix, plain water is usually best. Watering with a dilute fertilizer solution from bottom is appropriate for media with no inherent nutrient value.

Days to Maturity: Fast-growing varieties are typically ready for harvest in 10-15 days while slow-growing varieties are ready in 16-25 days.

Harvesting: Once microgreens are desired size, cut with scissors or a sharp knife and minimize handling to reduce damage.

Tips: Consider supplemental lighting in any environment where natural light is insufficient.