How to Successfully Grow and Harvest Microgreens Indoors
Growing your own microgreens indoors is a satisfying and nutritious way to add some green to your daily meals. Not only are microgreens easy to grow, but they also provide a punch of flavor and nutrients to any dish. Plus, with the growing demand for fresh and organic produce, growing microgreens at home has become a popular trend. But if you’re new to the world of microgreens, you may be wondering how to get started and what steps are involved in successfully growing and harvesting them. In this article, we’ll explore the steps you need to take to successfully grow and harvest microgreens indoors.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young, edible plants that are harvested when they are just a few inches tall and have produced their first set of true leaves. These tiny greens are packed with flavor and nutrition, making them a popular addition to meals. They are often used as a garnish or added to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. Microgreens are different from sprouts in that they are grown in soil and are harvested at an older stage of growth. This means they have a more developed root system and a fuller flavor profile.
How to Grow Microgreens Indoors
Step 1: Choose the Right Container
The first step in growing microgreens is choosing the right container. You can use a seed tray, a shallow container, or any other container that has drainage holes. Make sure the container is at least 2-3 inches deep to allow enough room for root growth. You can also reuse old containers like egg cartons or takeout containers, just make sure to poke some holes in the bottom for drainage.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Fill the container with potting soil, leaving about an inch of space from the top. Use a good quality organic potting mix, or you can make your own by mixing equal parts of compost, peat moss, and vermiculite. Avoid using garden soil as it can contain pests and diseases that can harm your microgreens. Moisten the soil lightly so that it is damp but not soggy.
Step 3: Select Your Seeds
When it comes to choosing seeds for microgreens, you have a variety of options. You can use any edible vegetable, herb, or grain, such as arugula, broccoli, kale, basil, or even sunflower seeds. Make sure to choose non-GMO and organic seeds for the best results. You can also purchase pre-packaged microgreen seed mixes that are specifically designed for growing microgreens.
Step 4: Sow the Seeds
Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the soil, covering the entire surface. You can also mix different seeds together for a more diverse and flavorful mix. Gently press the seeds into the soil, making sure they are in contact with the moist soil. For small seeds, you can lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil, but larger seeds can be left on the surface.
Step 5: Water and Cover the Container
Using a spray bottle, lightly water the seeds, making sure not to displace them. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse that will help retain moisture. Place the container in a warm and bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight.
Step 6: Maintain and Care for Your Microgreens
Over the next few days, your microgreens will start to sprout. Keep the soil moist by misting it with water whenever it starts to dry out. If the container doesn’t have a lid, you can cover it with plastic wrap to keep the moisture in. Once your microgreens have grown about 1-2 inches tall, remove the cover and place the container in a sunny spot. Rotate the container a few times a day to ensure all the greens get equal amounts of sunlight.
How to Harvest Microgreens
Depending on the type of seeds you used, your microgreens can be ready to harvest in 1-3 weeks. Look for the first set of true leaves to appear, as this is an indicator that they are ready to be harvested. To harvest your microgreens, use a pair of scissors or a sharp knife to cut them just above the soil level. Rinse them with cool water and pat them dry before adding them to your meals.
In Conclusion
Growing and harvesting microgreens is a fun and easy way to add some fresh and nutritious greens to your daily meals. With a little bit of care and attention, you can have a steady supply of microgreens right in your own home. So why not give it a try and experience the joy of growing and harvesting your own microgreens today!
