Easy instructions: How to grow your microgreens!

Are you interested in learning about microgreens? Microgreens are vibrant, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any indoor farmer's repertoire, especially if space is limited.

So, what exactly are microgreens? They're essentially tiny greens bursting with flavor and nutritional goodness. Plus, they offer a high-profit margin and quick turnover, making them a smart choice for indoor farming.

Ready to get started on your microgreen journey?

Here are the five essentials you'll need:

  1. Containers or Trays: Opt for shallow containers or trays with drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
  2. Growing Medium/Substrate: Choose a sustainable and easy-to-use medium like bamboo mats.
  3. Microgreen Seeds: Invest in high-quality seeds specifically designed for microgreens.
  4. Spray Bottle: Essential for keeping your seeds and growing medium moist.
  5. Clean Water: Preferably filtered or from a reverse osmosis system.

 

Now, let's talk seeds.

There are various types of microgreens you can grow, each with its unique flavor profile and growing requirements:

  • Pea Shoots: Sweet and easy to grow with good drainage.
  • Radishes: Quick to sprout with a spicy flavor, needing moderate light and consistent moisture.
  • Sunflowers: Nutty and crunchy, requiring soaked seeds and ample air circulation.
  • Kale: Hardy and nutritious, thriving in cooler temperatures and benefiting from regular misting.
  • Broccoli: Packed with antioxidants, they need weight on top during germination for better root contact.
  • Arugula: Peppery and flavorful, requiring consistent moisture and moderate light.

Most microgreens varieties pair well with Vegbed grow mats, which offer optimal conditions for growth. Some may be trickier to grow (like arugula, beet, and basil), but with the correct techniques, success is within reach.

Now, let's get planting:

  1. Prepare your container or tray.
  2. Add your growing medium.
  3. Saturate the medium with water using a spray bottle.
  4. Sprinkle your seeds evenly on top.
  5. Spray, with water or mix of your choice of fertilizers, the seeds and medium again to ensure saturation.
  6. Cover and keep in darkness for 2-3 days.
  7. Afterward, place in a sunny spot or under a grow light.
  8. Maintain moisture levels and check daily.
  9. Harvest with clean scissors after 10-14 days.

Starting with microgreens is easy with our bamboo substrate mats- it takes just 60 seconds to get going!

However, there are some common issues to watch out for, such as overwatering, insufficient light, poor seed quality, and contamination. Regular monitoring and proper care are the solution to avoiding these pitfalls.

Overall, growing microgreens indoors is a fulfilling journey, offering fresh, nutrient-rich greens for your meals in no time. Experiment with different seeds and methods to find what works best for you and your customers. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us via email. 

© Vegbed & Cubicgrow – feb 2024