How To Grow Microgreens

The wonderful thing about microgreens is that there isn't a set season. You can grow microgreens anytime, even in winter. All you need is a container with drainage holes, some potting soil, and a good microgreens seed mix. We grow microgreens throughout the spring and summer to supplement our salads; then, in winter, they become the salad. Growing microgreens is quick and easy. Plus, microgreens are super nutritious and delicious.

What are microgreens?

In a nutshell, microgreens are immature plants, i.e., plant babies or seedlings. The seeds grow to 2-3" tall, then are harvested by cutting off the stems at the soil level.

There is a lot of confusion between microgreens and sprouts, but they have several differences. Sprouts are germinated seeds grown in water, and you eat the seeds along with the shoot. Microgreens are grown in soil, and you don't eat the seeds.

Why grow microgreens?

Besides their versatility around growing seasons, microgreens are incredibly nutritious, fast-growing, and high-yielding. Microgreens are also inexpensive to grow, don't require much maintenance and can grow in all climates.

How To Grow Microgreens

1. First, you'll need a tray or container with drainage holes. You can use any plastic tray and poke holes in the bottom for water to drain out or use a specially designed microgreen grow tray. They both will work fine.
   
   
2. Fill the tray 2" high with high-quality potting soil and wet it thoroughly. It should be moist but not overly soggy.
   
   
3. Sprinkle the microgreen seeds over the soil densely and as evenly as possible. Don't worry if they aren't perfectly distributed; they'll grow just fine.
   
   
4. Lightly press the seeds into the soil, but not too deep – they need light to sprout.
   
   
5. Place the tray in a warm, humid location, like a greenhouse. Or, cover the tray with a plastic bag to keep moisture in. Be sure to leave a small section open to allow for airflow, or poke a couple of holes in the bag.
   
   
6. Mist the soil with water every day. Be careful not to overdo it. The soil should always be moist but never, ever soggy (this will rot the seeds).
   
   
7. Once the seeds sprout, remove the cover or plastic.
   
   
8. Keep the seedlings in a warm, bright location and keep misting the soil every day to keep it moist.
   
   
9. When the seedlings reach 2-3" tall, harvest them by cutting the stems at the soil level.
   
   
10. Add microgreens to salads, sandwiches, and spring rolls.