How to Plant Microgreens

Microgreens have gained a lot of popularity over the past few years due to their high nutrition content, easy-to-grow nature, and delicious taste. They are basically young versions of plants, usually harvested after two to three weeks of growth. In this article, we will guide you on how to plant microgreens at home.

Choosing Seeds

The first step is to choose the right seeds for the microgreens. You can either buy them from a gardening store or online. Some of the most popular varieties of seeds for microgreens include sunflower, pea, radish, wheatgrass, and broccoli. Make sure the seeds are fresh and not expired.

Soil Preparation

The next step is to prepare the soil for planting the seeds. Fill a container with soil that is rich in nutrients and free from any chemicals or pesticides. You can either use a potting mix or make your own by blending equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Ensure that the soil is moist but not overly wet.

Planting Seeds

Now, it鈥檚 time to plant the seeds. Spread a layer of seeds on top of the soil evenly. It鈥檚 important to not overcrowd the seeds as this can cause them to compete for resources and not grow as well. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, roughly one-fourth of an inch. Gently water the soil to ensure it is moist.

Light and Temperature

Microgreens need plenty of natural light to thrive. Place the container near a window that receives a lot of sunlight but not direct sunlight as it can damage the seedlings. If you don鈥檛 have a window that gets enough sunlight, you can use fluorescent lights to grow your microgreens. The temperature should be kept between 60-70掳F.

Watering

Watering is a crucial part of growing microgreens. Make sure to water them frequently, at least twice a day. However, be careful to not overwater them as this can cause root rot. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil and prevent the seeds from moving around.

Harvesting

After two to three weeks, you can harvest your microgreens. Cut the young plants close to the soil using sharp scissors. Rinse them in cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. You can now use them to add flavor and nutrition to your salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.

In conclusion, growing microgreens at home is an easy and rewarding experience. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy fresh and nutritious microgreens in just a few weeks. Happy planting!