Microgreens (MG) are young, tender, edible vegetables produced by sprouting the seeds of various vegetable species and herbaceous plants. They are nutrient dense and can be grown all year round in a short period of time in a limited space. Growing microgreens indoors is relatively easy and yields fresh, delicious produce.
Many edible plant species can be used to produce microgreens. The most popular are broccoli, radishes, cauliflower, arugula, cabbage, kale, kohlrabi, mustard, mizuna, watercress, and broccoli rabe, which feature a 7-8 day growth cycle. Grains such as barley, oats, wheat, and corn are also common for germination, as are legumes such as peas, alfalfa, beans, broad beans, lentils, and chickpeas. We also offer combined packages.
Equipment needed to get started:
• Shallow containers that can drain, such as plastic trays or pie molds.
•seed.
• Growth media, such as ready-made potting mixes.
• Light source.
• Sharp, sanitized knives or scissors for harvesting.
Alternatively, you can get an MG grow kit at your local garden center.
Add seeds to the container with about 2 inches of growing medium. The buds are harvested immaturely, so the seeds should be planted densely, about 1/4 inch or less apart. After spreading the seed layer, spread an additional thin layer of medium on top to cover the seeds and press down lightly.
Water so that the soil is moist, but not drenched. No fertilization is required as the seed itself is a reservoir of all the nutrients needed to produce the first seed leaf (cotyledon) and the new true leaf of the microgreens.
Check the container daily to make sure the medium stays moist and spray once or twice a day or place the growing container in a tray and slowly shallow the water layer over several days. to water the container.
Microgreens require approximately 6-8 hours of light per day for optimal growth. A sunny south-facing window is preferred. Alternatively, you can use grow lights. MG must be stretched towards the light source to form its own plant structure. This elongation makes them produce a seed start unlike typical herbs.I want MG to be “legged”.
Microgreens grow best around 70 degrees, but can tolerate up to 50 degrees but grow slower. If the temperature is low, you can use a seed germination heat mat.
Most crops are harvested when the plants are 2 to 4 inches tall and the true leaves have just emerged. Exceptions are pea shoots, lemongrass, wheatgrass, and other grains that taste better the taller they are.
To harvest MG, cut the stem about 1/4 inch above the soil line or use scissors or a very sharp knife to grow medium.
For detailed instructions on growing microgreens, see https://extension.psu.edu/a-step-by-step-guide-for-growing-microgreens-at-home and https://extension See ABC. psu.edu/downloadable/download/sample/sample_id/18101/
Please send any gardening questions to csumg2@elpasoco.com or call 719-520-7684. Find us on Facebook at Colorado Master Gardeners – El Paso County.
Please send any gardening questions to csumg2@elpasoco.com or call 719-520-7684. Find us on Facebook at Colorado Master Gardeners – El Paso County.
