Microgreens are a new class of edible vegetables, a very specific type which includes seedlings of edible vegetables, herbs or other plants. It is stage of a plant’s growth when its first leaves appear; which is older than sprouts and younger than Babygreens.
How to grow Microgreens
Microgreens are grown quickly from seeds in good light with adequate moisture. They are usually sown in a soil medium or substitute and harvested before they reach full size. Each seed needs enough ‘personal space’ to grow.
You simply snip the microgreens off at soil level after the first two ‘true’ leaves of the plant emerge from the cotyledon (the embryonic leaf/leaves inside the seed).
Materials
Tray/container
Certified organic/fungicide free seeds
Spray bottle
Seaweed solution
Seed raising mix growing medium
Paper towel/chux cloth to line tray
Plant label or pen to mark date and variety
Step 1 : Soak your seeds
To germinate quickly, soak your seeds(peas, gram, mustard, mung beans) in water for few hours or overnight.
Step 2 : Prepare your tray
If using a tray, lay some moistened paper towel or chux cloth on the bottom to stop the mix falling through. Fill your container about 3/4 full of moist growing medium (compost) about 2-3cm (1 in) deep.
Step 3 : Sow your Seeds
Generously sprinkle your seeds over the mix and press in lightly. Optional: For small seeds you can also evenly spread a thin layer of seed raising mix or sieved compost (about 0.5 cm or 1/5 in) over the top so they are all covered.
Aftercare
- Lightly water by misting with a spray bottle. This prevents you dislodging the seeds.
- Place on a drainage tray or saucer in a warm spot like your kitchen bench.
- Water regularly every day as needed. Check soil moisture first by touching with your fingers.
- The seeds should never dry out. Avoid over-watering though as you’ll drown your seeds!
- To create a warm humid environment for the seeds to germinate, cover the seeds with the punnet lid. Or add a clear plastic bag over the top of the tray with holes snipped in the top for airflow.
Harvest
When the seedlings are 2.5-10cm (1-3 in) tall – depending on the variety you choose, your yummy microgreens are ready for harvesting! I use scissors to cut stems just above the soil when I’m about to put them on the plate.
