The basic steps for Growing Healthy Microgreens are similar to those for most other vegetable plants. They include top watering, proper Humidity, and Harvesting. If you are new to growing microgreens, here are some basic steps. Then, learn how to grow your fresh microgreens by following the tips below. Once you’re an expert in the field, you can move on to more complex steps. Regardless of the method, the result will be delicious and nutritious microgreens.
Top watering
A standard growing tray or upcycled shallow container with drainage holes is ideal for growing microgreens. A produce clamshell lid can be substituted for
a breathable fabric or newspaper. Soilless growing media such as coconut coir is best for microgreens. You can try tap water if you can’t find soilless growing media. Lastly, make sure that you’re using high-quality water for your microgreens.
Remember that this young plant needs plenty of moisture when starting your first batch of microgreens. Its tender leaves and stems can bruise easily if handled too roughly. Suppose the soil is too dry, water from below. Some microgreens grow short and straight, while others are curly. Some varieties of microgreens need more care and handling than others. You should keep an eye on their growth and check for mold.
As they grow more petite, you may have to adjust the watering schedule for the microgreens. A little bit of watering each day is ideal. In addition, you should avoid overwatering or underwatering. A balanced watering schedule is crucial for growing healthy microgreens. However, this doesn’t mean that you should abandon your regular watering regime. Microgreens are easy to grow and have an excellent reputation as a healthy food.
Humidity
Microgreens grow best in a low-humidity environment. They are unable to survive in high-humidity winter climates or at higher altitudes. Humidity may also be a problem because of your building’s structure. A dehumidifier may be necessary in such situations. If you’re growing microgreens indoors, you may want to consider a humidifier. A humidifier works by releasing steam into the air.
If you’ve ever grown seeds and noticed that they take a long time to germinate, you may not provide the right conditions for them. If the soil is too wet, microgreens may not sprout. Ensure your microgreens have a warm, moist environment, 45 degrees or higher. Humidity also affects the growth rate of microgreens, and a hygrometer measures air humidity and water vapor in the immediate atmosphere.
Microgreens grow best in a 40—to 60% humid environment. Humidity above 50% may cause wilting or a rotten-tasting odor. If the air is too wet, microgreens may contract fungus and mold, but low humidity will cause them to dry out and turn yellow. If the humidity is too high, they may become moldy, wilt, and die.
Harvesting
The benefits of microgreens go beyond their flavor; they also provide numerous nutritional benefits. The leaves of these tiny vegetables contain up to four times the nutrients found in giant vegetables. For instance, broccoli microgreens have 40 times more vitamin E than broccoli leaves, and cilantro shoots contain three times as much beta-carotene. And even though these vegetables don’t look like much, they can improve your health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Microgreens are the first true leaves of a seedling. They are typically only two to three inches tall and contain nutrients and flavor. Many popular vegetables are grown as microgreens, and these plants provide a beautiful garnish that is healthy and beautiful. Among their many benefits, microgreens have an intense flavor. For example, a microgreen radish shoot will have a radish-like flavor.
Microgreens can be grown indoors or outdoors. They are versatile and often used in salads or garnishes in many cuisines. Their firm flavor profiles can add flavor to just about any food, from salads to nutritional shakes. If you’re growing your microgreens, ensure you know how to harvest them before they become too large. You can save them later by drying them and storing them in paper wraps in the fridge.