Microgreens are small, young plants that pack a punch regarding flavor, nutrition, and ease of growing. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, growing microgreens at home is fun and rewarding.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about microgreen seeds—from what they are and how to plant them to where to buy them and how to take care of them.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are tiny plants harvested just after they’ve sprouted their first true leaves. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent addition to salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and more. Unlike fully grown vegetables, microgreens proliferate—usually in 7 to 21 days—and are easy to grow at home. The best part? You don’t need a garden! You can grow them indoors, on your windowsill, or a countertop.
Types of Microgreen Seeds
You can grow several microgreen seeds, each with a unique flavor. Here are some popular ones:
Arugula
Known for their spicy, peppery taste, arugula microgreens are a favorite for adding heat to dishes.
Radish
Radish microgreens have a zesty flavor, similar to the adult radish but milder. They grow quickly, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
Pea Shoots
These microgreens are sweet, mild, and perfect for adding crunch to salads.
Mustard
If you like bold flavors, mustard microgreens pack a punch with their tangy, spicy taste.
Are Microgreen Seeds Different from Regular Seeds?
Yes, microgreen seeds are different from regular vegetable seeds. The main difference is that microgreens are harvested at a much younger stage than regular vegetables. Microgreen seeds are specially chosen for their ability to grow quickly, typically in 7 to 21 days. They are grown for their young, tender leaves packed with nutrients.
Unlike regular seeds, planted for full-grown vegetables, microgreens are harvested early for a higher concentration of vitamins and minerals in a small, fast-growing package.
Where to Buy Microgreen Seeds
If you’re ready to grow your microgreens, you might wonder where to buy the seeds. The good news is that microgreen seeds are easy to find. You can buy them at:
- Online Stores: Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and specialized gardening sites offer various microgreen seeds. Many also provide microgreen seeds in bulk, which is excellent if you plan to grow a lot.
- Local Garden Centers: Many garden centers now carry microgreen seeds. Ask for varieties specifically meant for growing microgreens.
- Specialty Shops: Some health food stores or organic markets may also carry microgreen seeds.
When purchasing seeds, make sure to look for high-quality, non-GMO options.
How to Plant Microgreen Seeds
Planting microgreens is easy and doesn’t require a lot of space. Follow these simple steps:
Choose Your Seeds
Pick a variety of microgreen seeds you want to grow. You can start with easy-to-grow types like radish or pea shoots.
Prepare Your Tray
Fill a shallow tray (with drainage holes if possible) with soil, making sure the soil is spread evenly across the tray.
Plant the Seeds
Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the soil. Don’t worry about spacing them too perfectly; microgreens can handle being planted close together.
Water the Seeds
Gently water the seeds until the soil is moist but not soaked.
Provide Light
Place your tray in a sunny spot or under grow lights to help the seeds germinate.
Harvest
Your microgreens will be ready to harvest in 7 to 21 days. When they are 1-3 inches tall, use scissors to snip the leaves. Plant about 1-2 teaspoons of seeds per tray for best results.
Microgreen Seeder: What Is It and How Does It Work?
A microgreen seeder is a handy tool for planting seeds evenly and efficiently, especially when growing microgreens in bulk. It spreads the seeds uniformly across the soil, ensuring they have enough space to grow properly. Using a seeder is a great way to save time and make planting more efficient.
If you’re planning to grow a lot of microgreens or a business looking to produce microgreens at scale, a seeder can help make the process quicker and more uniform.
Bulk Microgreen Seeds: Buying and Storing in Bulk
Buying bulk microgreen seeds is a cost-effective choice if you plan to grow microgreens regularly. Many online stores sell microgreen seeds in bulk, and buying in larger quantities saves money. Bulk seeds are also great for people who want to grow a lot of microgreens at once.
To store bulk seeds, keep them in a cool, dry place. Use an airtight container to protect them from moisture, which can damage the seeds. Proper storage will keep your seeds fresh and ready for future planting.
How to Care for Microgreens
Microgreens are easy to care for, but here are a few things to remember:
- Light: Ensure your microgreens get enough light from a sunny window or grow lights.
- Watering: Water your microgreens regularly, but don’t overwater. The soil should be moist, not soggy.
- Temperature: Keep your microgreens in a temperature range of 60-70°F (15-21°C).
- Harvesting: Harvest your microgreens once they’ve developed their first set of true leaves. Depending on the variety, this usually happens within 7-21 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Microgreens
While growing microgreens is easy, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overwatering: Too much water can cause mold and rotting. Be sure to water gently and evenly.
- Crowding the Seeds: If you plant too many seeds too closely together, your microgreens may not grow properly. Give them enough space to thrive.
- Not Enough Light: Microgreens need at least 4-6 hours of light per day to grow healthy and strong.
Note: By avoiding these mistakes, your microgreens will grow beautifully and provide a healthy, delicious harvest.
Conclusion
Growing microgreens is a simple and rewarding way to add fresh, nutritious greens to your meals. With just a little space, some seeds, and a bit of attention, you can grow a variety of microgreens in your own home. Whether buying microgreen seeds in bulk or planting your first tray, you’ll enjoy your home-grown microgreens in no time.
FAQ
How many microgreen seeds per tray should I plant?
Plant 1-2 teaspoons of microgreen seeds per tray for optimal growth.
Are microgreen seeds different from regular seeds?
Microgreen seeds are harvested early for quick growth and concentrated nutrients.
Where can I buy microgreen seeds?
You can find microgreen seeds online, at garden centers, and in specialty shops.
How can I buy bulk microgreen seeds?
Many online stores offer bulk microgreen seeds, perfect if you plan to grow significantly.
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