How to Grow Microgreens: A Simple and Healthy Hobby
Microgreens are tiny edible plants that are harvested when they are just a few weeks old. They are packed with nutrients, flavor, and color, and they can add a fresh and crunchy touch to your salads, sandwiches, soups, and more. Microgreens are also very easy to grow at home, even if you don't have a lot of space or experience. In this blog post, I will show you how to grow microgreens indoors with some simple steps and tips.
## What are microgreens?
Microgreens are the first true leaves that emerge from the seeds of various plants, such as herbs, vegetables, and flowers. They are usually harvested when they are about 1-3 inches tall, before they develop into mature plants. Microgreens are different from sprouts, which are germinated in water and eaten with the roots and seeds attached. Microgreens are grown in soil or a soilless medium and cut above the soil level.
Microgreens have many benefits for your health and your taste buds. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes that can boost your immunity, lower inflammation, and protect against chronic diseases. They also have intense and diverse flavors that can enhance any dish. Some of the most popular microgreens include:
- Arugula: spicy and peppery
- Basil: sweet and aromatic
- Cilantro: fresh and citrusy
- Kale: mild and earthy
- Radish: tangy and crunchy
- Pea: sweet and tender
- Beet: earthy and colorful
- Sunflower: nutty and crunchy
## What do you need to grow microgreens?
Growing microgreens is a fun and rewarding hobby that doesn't require a lot of equipment or investment. Here is what you need to get started:
- Seeds: You can use any seeds that are suitable for microgreens, such as organic herb, vegetable, or flower seeds. You can also buy pre-mixed blends of microgreen seeds that have complementary flavors and colors. You can find microgreen seeds online or at your local garden center.
- Containers: You can use any shallow containers that have drainage holes at the bottom, such as plastic trays, pots, or recycled food containers. You can also use propagation trays that are designed for seed starting.
- Growing medium: You can use any sterile and lightweight growing medium that holds moisture well, such as potting soil, coconut coir, or vermiculite. You can also use special growing mats that are made of natural fibers such as hemp or jute.
- Light source: You can use natural sunlight or artificial light to grow your microgreens. If you use sunlight, place your containers near a south-facing window that gets at least 4 hours of direct light per day. If you use artificial light, use fluorescent or LED grow lights that are placed 4 inches above your containers. You can adjust the height of the lights as your microgreens grow.
- Water source: You can use tap water or filtered water to water your microgreens. You will need a spray bottle to mist your seeds and a watering can to water your plants.
## How to grow microgreens step by step
Once you have all the materials ready, you can follow these simple steps to grow your own microgreens:
1. Soak your seeds for 6-8 hours or according to the package directions. This will help them germinate faster and more evenly.
2. Fill your containers with your growing medium of choice and moisten it with water. Make sure the medium is evenly distributed and about 2 inches deep.
3. Sprinkle your seeds evenly over the surface of the medium. You don't need to cover them with more medium unless they are large seeds like peas or sunflowers.
4. Mist your seeds with water and cover your containers with another tray or a plastic lid. This will create a humid environment for germination.
5. Place your containers in a warm and dark place until your seeds sprout. This may take 2-5 days depending on the type of seeds.
6. Once your seeds sprout, remove the cover and move your containers to a sunny or well-lit spot. Keep misting your seeds daily until they develop roots.
7. Water your microgreens gently from the bottom by pouring water into the tray or container. Avoid watering from the top as this may cause mold or disease.
8. Harvest your microgreens when they reach 1-3 inches tall or when they have their first set of true leaves. This may take 7-14 days depending on the type of seeds.
9. Cut your microgreens with scissors or a sharp knife just above the soil level. Rinse them well and enjoy them fresh or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
## How to use microgreens in your recipes
Microgreens are versatile and delicious ingredients that can add flavor, color, and nutrition to any dish. Here are some ideas on how to use them in your recipes:
- Sprinkle them over salads, soups, sandwiches, wraps, or pizzas for a burst of freshness and crunch.
- Blend them into smoothies, juices, sauces, dips, or pestos for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Incorporate them into omelets, frittatas, quiches, or scrambled eggs for a touch of green and protein.
- Garnish your pasta, rice, or noodle dishes with microgreens for a pop of color and flavor.
- Decorate your desserts, cakes, or cupcakes with microgreens for a fun and edible twist.
Growing microgreens is a simple and healthy hobby that anyone can enjoy. With just a few materials and some seeds, you can grow your own mini garden of greens in a matter of days. Microgreens are not only tasty and nutritious, but also beautiful and fun to grow. Try growing microgreens today and discover the benefits of these tiny plants.
