If you are new to herb gardening, choosing the best knife for harvesting microgreens can be a little confusing. As with choosing any knife, the first step is to decide what it is you want to use for cutting, managing, and harvesting the microgreens. The most popular is probably the wooden-handled kitchen knife. However, it is also the least ergonomic, and handles can become slippery. If you have a lot of hair or are heavier-skinned, there are many other choices including the metal handled knives, some with v-grooves.
Another option is the plastic cutting board. It is the easiest when it comes to handling because it does not take much muscle to cut through them. When it comes to planting microgreens, however, you may need a more flexible cutting surface. Plastic is the best choice for this.
One of the most recommended types of knives for harvesting is a Gerber knife. The Gerber brand has blades that are designed for cutting and for trimming small plant parts, such as leaves. Most are of medium size, with blades up to ten inches long. The Gerber brand also makes other accessories, such as garden shears and pliers.
The Gerber knife is available in two styles. One is called the Gerber TK, which is made from a heavy metal stainless steel blade. The other style is called the Gerber RN, which is made from a high-carbon steel blade. Both styles work well for cutting, trimming, and for pruning. What makes these particular blades so great is that the larger center of gravity of the Gerber TK blade allows for longer cutting times than the RN style.
The other consideration when choosing a knife for cutting microgreens is what you will be using it for. Some people like to use their knives for general gardening chores, and will not require the sharpest, most durable knife. If this is you, then a regular kitchen knife will be more than adequate. However, if you are a serious gardener or even a hobby gardener, you will want to invest in a more durable knife that will last you many years.
You also need to consider how much you will be cutting. There are many different sizes of blade. If you plan to use your knife for trimming small branches and other smaller pieces, a small paring knife with a six inch blade should be more than sufficient. A large serrated knife on the other hand, can cut through branches that are several feet tall.
When you choose a knife for cutting microgreens, you will also want to take into consideration how safe it is to use. You don’t want to get stuck up in the middle of a forest with a bladed weapon drawn. Make sure that the knife is safe for the type of cutting you will be doing. If you are going to be using a saw, you might want to invest in a blade guard.
The last thing to look for in a good knife for cutting microgreens is one that will work for you. You will want to buy a product that you will be comfortable using. If you are a woman who has to go out and collect her daily pollen, then you will obviously not want a big blade that will tear your clothes. Women also want to be able to sharpen their knives without having to take it out of its sheath. If you take a look at a number of different knives and find one that meets all of these requirements, you may find the best tool for you.