Ever thought about growing your own microgreens at home? These tiny greens are packed with nutrients, often more than their full-grown versions. They’re easy to grow, even for beginners.
This guide will show you how to start your own indoor microgreen garden. We’ll cover the basics, from what you need to how to grow them. Growing microgreens is great for your health, a fun DIY project, or even a business idea.
Key Takeaways
- Microgreens are a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to grow nutrient-dense greens at home
- They can be grown in small spaces with minimal equipment, making them great for beginners
- Microgreens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, often more so than their mature counterparts
- Growing microgreens is a fun, rewarding hobby that can provide a continuous supply of fresh greens
- Microgreen growing kits offer a convenient, all-in-one solution for those new to indoor gardening
What are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young, edible greens from vegetable, herb, or flower plants. They are bigger than sprouts but picked earlier, usually in just a week or two. Unlike sprouts, which are eaten whole, microgreens are grown in a medium and cut at the base for eating.
They are seen as more refined than sprouts. Microgreens have a richer taste and more nutrients.
Microgreens vs. Sprouts
The main differences between microgreens and sprouts are:
- Microgreens are grown in a medium, while sprouts are in water and eaten whole.
- Microgreens are picked when they’re more mature, around 7-10 days after they start growing. Sprouts are eaten earlier, in 2-4 days.
- Microgreens offer a wider variety of tastes, textures, and nutrients than sprouts.
In short, microgreens are the more advanced cousins of sprouts. They have more flavors and nutrients.
Why Grow Your Own Microgreens?
Growing your own microgreens at home has many benefits. They are easy to grow, even in small spaces. Plus, they are ready to harvest in just 7-14 days. This makes them a cost-effective way to get fresh, nutritious greens anytime.
Microgreens are great for beginners in gardening. Their small size and quick growth make them perfect for starting out. Even if you’re new to gardening, you can still enjoy growing your own healthy microgreens.
- Microgreens can be harvested with scissors less than a month after germination when the plants are up to 2 inches tall.
- Microgreens need about four hours daily of direct sunlight to thrive, and in winter months, they may need even more.
- Microgreens are usually ready to harvest about 2-3 weeks after planting, once the first set of “true leaves” appear.
- Leggy, pale greens in microgreens are a sign of not enough sunlight, indicating the importance of proper lighting for growth.
- Beginners often start by growing easy-to-grow varieties of microgreens such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, mustard, chia, sunflower, or buckwheat in a single container.
Microgreens are a great reason to start your own indoor garden. They are small, grow fast, and are full of nutrients. Whether you’re experienced or just starting, the benefits of growing microgreens make them a great choice for any home gardener.
Essential Supplies for Growing Microgreens
Growing microgreens at home is easy and rewarding. You’ll need a few key items to start. These include growing trays, a good growing medium, organic seeds, a spray bottle, and maybe a grow light.
Trays and Containers
Choose trays or containers that are 1-inch deep with drainage holes. They’re perfect for your microgreens to grow well. Sizes like 10 x 20 inches are great for a good harvest from one sowing.
Growing Medium
The growing medium is key for growing microgreens. You can use peat-based mixes, coconut coir, or natural mats. They help keep your microgreens healthy and vibrant.
Certified Organic Seeds
Choose high-quality, organic seeds for your microgreens. This ensures they’re free from harmful chemicals. You’ll get a clean, nutritious harvest.
Watering and Lighting
A spray bottle or watering can is all you need for watering. Microgreens do well in sunlight, but a grow light helps if it’s not sunny enough.
With these microgreen growing supplies and knowledge of what do you need to grow microgreens, you’re ready to start your indoor garden. It will flourish in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Growing Microgreens
Growing microgreens at home is easy and rewarding. You can have fresh, nutritious greens always. Here’s how to grow microgreens:
- Prepare your growing trays or containers. Make sure they have drainage holes. Use a good growing medium like peat or coconut coir.
- Sow the microgreen seeds evenly across the growing medium. Check the seed packet for how many seeds to use per square inch, usually 6-8.
- Cover the trays with a lid or keep them dark and humid. This helps the seeds sprout and grow roots.
- When the microgreens sprout, remove the lid. Give them lots of light from a window or grow light. Water gently, as needed, to keep the medium moist.
- Harvest the microgreens when they’re 2-4 inches tall, 7-14 days after sowing. Cut them just above the medium. Enjoy their fresh taste and nutrients.
By following these how to grow microgreens steps, you can grow a successful microgreen growing process. Enjoy the fresh, nutritious rewards of your indoor garden.
Choosing the Right Growing Medium
The growing medium is key to growing microgreens well. Popular choices are peat-based mixes, coconut coir, and fiber mats. These offer the right mix of moisture, drainage, and air for the roots.
Many growers like a mix of 50% coconut coir and 50% organic potting soil. This mix is perfect for microgreens. Other good options include custom soil blends, Pro-Mix HP, and hemp mats.
- Coconut coir is a green choice for hydroponics, made from coconut husks.
- Pro-Mix is easy to find and works well for new microgreen growers.
- Hemp mats are a clean, soilless option for those who care about the environment.
The growing medium you pick can really affect your microgreens. Trying out different media can help you find what works best for you.
Selecting and Sowing Seeds
Starting your own microgreens begins with picking the right seeds. Quality and variety are crucial in microgreen seed selection. You can grow many vegetable, herb, and flower seeds as microgreens. This offers a wide range of flavors and nutrients.
For a successful microgreen harvest, choose high-quality, certified organic seeds. These seeds are picked and processed to help them grow well. Don’t use seeds meant for full-sized plants, as they might not grow right for microgreens.
- Look into the many microgreen seed options, from common greens like kale and arugula to unique ones like sunflower and red cabbage.
- Think about the flavor and growing time of each variety. This helps you create a microgreen garden that fits your taste.
- When sowing seeds, spread them evenly over the growing medium. Don’t cover them with more soil.
- Some big seeds might need a pre-soak to help them germinate. But most microgreen seeds don’t need this.
Proper seed placement and density are key for even growth and a big harvest. By following these tips for seed selection and sowing, you’ll grow a vibrant indoor garden full of fresh, nutritious greens.
Lighting and Watering Requirements
Getting the right light and water is key for growing healthy microgreens at home. Microgreens need good sunlight or grow lights. They can also handle lower light levels to some extent.
Lighting for Growing Microgreens
Try to give your microgreens 4-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for the best growth. If sunlight is scarce, a small grow light setup can help. LED grow lights are a good choice because they save energy and help microgreens grow well.
Place the lights 6-12 inches above the growing trays for the best results.
Watering Microgreens
Watering microgreens should be done carefully. They only need water when the soil starts to dry out. Too much water can cause mold and other problems.
Using bottom watering or misting the soil is a good way to keep microgreens moist without drowning them.
By balancing light and water, you can create the perfect environment for your microgreens to grow well. This way, they can reach their full nutritional potential.
Harvesting and Enjoying Your Microgreens
Growing your own microgreens is thrilling. They’re ready when they’re 2-4 inches tall and have their first true leaves. To harvest, use sharp scissors or a knife to cut the stems just above the soil. Be gentle to avoid damaging the greens.
Microgreens stay fresh for a long time if they’re not washed. So, only wash what you’re going to use right away. The rest can stay in the fridge for up to 10 days. This way, you always have fresh greens ready.
Microgreens are great for many dishes. They’re perfect for salads, sandwiches, soups, and smoothies. They add flavor and nutrition to your meals. You can use how to harvest microgreens in many ways.
When your microgreens are ready, it’s time to harvest and get creative. Use them to top dishes or blend them into smoothies. These tiny greens add fresh flavor and nutrition to your food.
Microgreens Growing Kits
For those new to growing microgreens or looking for a more streamlined approach, microgreen growing kits are a great option. Kits like Hamama come with a pre-seeded grow tray and all the necessary supplies. This lets you start growing microgreens with minimal effort.
These self-contained systems take the guesswork out of seed selection, soil preparation, and other steps. This makes it easy for even novice gardeners to enjoy a steady supply of fresh, homegrown microgreens.
Convenience and Simplicity
Each Hamama microgreen kit is ready to harvest in just 7-10 days. This provides a quick turnaround for fresh, nutrient-dense greens. The kit yields over a month’s worth of microgreens, with various seed varieties available.
These include lemony and mild broccoli microgreens and spicy and zesty radish microgreens. The compact size of the kit, measuring 9″ wide, 6.25″ deep, and 1″ high, makes it an ideal choice for small spaces like kitchens, windowsills, or balconies.
Hassle-Free Growing
Hamama’s microgreen growing kits take the guesswork out of the process. They come with specific instructions for soaking seeds, maintaining the optimal temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, providing indirect sunlight, and watering as directed.
The fast germination time of just 2 days means you can start enjoying your homegrown microgreens in no time. Additionally, Hamama offers support for troubleshooting and replacements, ensuring a successful growing experience.
With their convenience, simplicity, and high-quality results, microgreen growing kits like Hamama provide an excellent way for both beginners and experienced gardeners to cultivate a steady supply of nutrient-dense microgreens right at home.
Common Microgreens Varieties
There are many plants that can be grown as microgreens, far beyond what you find in stores. You can grow salad greens like kale, arugula, and chard. Herbs such as basil, cilantro, and dill are also great options. The variety of microgreens you can grow is endless.
Root vegetables like beets and radishes are also good for microgreens. Other plants, like sunflowers and pea shoots, work well too. Trying out different types of microgreens is fun and can add excitement to your gardening.
Some of the most popular microgreen varieties include:
- Arugula – A peppery, spicy flavor perfect for salads and sandwiches.
- Broccoli – Rich in vitamins, minerals, and the compound sulforaphane.
- Radish – A fast-growing microgreen with a crunchy, peppery taste.
- Mustard – Offering a slightly spicy, pungent flavor.
- Basil – Available in a range of varieties like lemon, Thai, and cinnamon.
Choosing any microgreen varieties to grow will add fresh, nutritious flavors to your meals.
Troubleshooting and Growing Tips
Growing microgreens at home can be very rewarding. But, like any gardening, you might face some challenges. Knowing how to solve these problems is crucial for a healthy indoor microgreen garden.
Tackling Microgreen Growing Problems
Fungal growth is a common issue for microgreen growers. It often happens due to too much water or bad air flow. Make sure your growing trays drain well and keep the right moisture level. Good air flow and not crowding seeds can also prevent fungal problems.
Another issue is uneven growth in the same tray. This might be because of uneven seed spread, bad lighting, or poor soil. To fix this, spread seeds evenly, improve lighting, and use better soil.
Extending the Shelf Life of Microgreens
After harvesting, keeping microgreens fresh is important. Trim them gently above the soil and store in a clean, sealed container in the fridge. Don’t wash them until you’re ready to eat them to avoid moisture damage.
By tackling common microgreen growing problems and using microgreen growing tips, you can have a successful indoor garden. This will give you a steady supply of fresh, healthy greens.
Health Benefits of Microgreens
Microgreens are more than just a garnish. They are nutritional powerhouses. Studies show they have more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than full-grown greens.
Microgreens can have up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature versions. They are rich in sulforaphane, which may prevent chronic diseases like cancer. Adding microgreens to your diet boosts your health and well-being.
- Microgreens are a concentrated source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, K, and E, as well as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
- They are packed with antioxidants that can help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
- The high concentration of phytochemicals in microgreens, such as carotenoids and flavonoids, may contribute to their potential anti-cancer and heart-health benefits.
- Regularly consuming microgreens may support better digestion, immune function, and overall well-being.
While more research is needed, the evidence suggests microgreens are a nutritional powerhouse. Adding them to your meals boosts your nutrient intake. This supports your health and wellness.
Creative Ways to Use Microgreens
Microgreens are more than just for salads. They are packed with nutrients and can add flavor and crunch to many dishes. You can use them in sandwiches, wraps, soups, and grain bowls. They also make a great garnish for proteins and baked goods.
Try adding microgreens like kale, spinach, or beet to your smoothies. They mix well with fruits and nut butters. For a tasty twist, make an arugula microgreen pesto. It’s full of nutrients and can be used with pasta, roasted veggies, or as a dip.
- Sprinkle microgreens on top of salads, sandwiches, and tacos for a nutrient boost
- Incorporate microgreens into egg dishes, grain bowls, and stir-fries
- Use microgreens as a colorful garnish for proteins, soups, and even desserts
- Blend microgreens like kale, spinach, and pea shoots into smoothies
- Make a microgreen-infused pesto or dressing to toss with pasta, roasted veggies, or as a dip
Microgreens are versatile and nutritious. They can add texture, color, and health benefits to your meals. These tiny greens are a powerful addition to any dish.
Microgreens for Small Spaces
Microgreens are perfect for small spaces because they grow fast and don’t take up much room. They’re great for city gardens and tiny homes. You can grow them indoors and enjoy fresh greens all year, no matter how small your space is.
Hamama’s microgreens kits make growing your own greens easy. They’re small, about 9″ x 6.25″ x 1″, and fit on a windowsill or countertop. In just 7-10 days, you can harvest greens packed with nutrients, up to 40 times more than regular greens.
The Hamama Microgreens Starter Kit gives you a month’s worth of greens from one planting. It comes with organic seeds, a natural growing pad, and a tray. Plus, it’s shipped for free if you spend over $149, making it great for city folks and apartment gardeners.
Even with a tiny balcony, cramped kitchen, or little outdoor space, microgreens are a great choice. They grow fast and don’t need a lot of room. So, you can have fresh, nutritious greens right at home.
Conclusion
Growing your own microgreens at home is easy and rewarding. It’s great for gardeners of all levels. This guide has everything you need to start your indoor microgreen garden.
You can choose a self-contained kit or build your own. Either way, you’ll have fresh, flavorful greens at your fingertips. Enjoy a continuous supply of nutritious greens.
The summary of growing microgreens covers the basics. It talks about the best temperature, lighting, and how affordable it is. Microgreens grow fast, ready in 7 to 14 days.
They thrive in small spaces, perfect for city or apartment living. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Plus, they’re high in fiber and protein, making them a healthy choice.
Whether you’re new to gardening or experienced, growing microgreens is rewarding. This guide will help you grow your own indoor garden. You’ll enjoy the many benefits these greens offer.