Microgreens, those tiny, nutrient-packed powerhouses of flavor, are not only a delight for the palate but also a source of immense satisfaction for home gardeners. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice with a green thumb, here are some tips to help you successfully grow your own microgreens at home.
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Choose the Right Seeds: Start your microgreen journey by selecting high-quality, non GMO seeds. Popular choices include arugula, kale, broccoli, rocket and mizuna. Ensure the seeds are specifically labeled for microgreen cultivation to guarantee optimal flavor and nutritional content, such as Micropod's Mix Pack 2 Growmats.
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Select the Ideal Growing Medium: Opt for a soilless growing medium to reduce the risk of contamination and make harvesting cleaner. A mix of natural plant-based fibres such as those found in Micropod's seed mats provides excellent aeration and water retention, promoting healthy seedling development.
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Provide Ample Light: Microgreens thrive in bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill or a spot under a grow light with a colour temperature of around 4000K to 6500K is ideal for promoting robust growth. Rotate trays regularly to ensure even exposure.
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Maintain Optimal Humidity: Microgreens prefer a slightly humid environment during germination. Covering trays with a lid or plastic wrap until the seeds sprout helps create a mini greenhouse effect. Once the seedlings appear, remove the cover to prevent mould growth. Micropod's carefully created grow trays come complete with a lid for this exact purpose.
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Water Wisely: Bottom watering will keep the growing medium evenly moist. Use one of Micropod's grow trays for effective watering of your microgreens.
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Harvest at the Right Time: Microgreens are typically ready to harvest 7-14 days after germination. Harvest when the first true leaves appear, using clean scissors (or Micropod's specially crafted Micro Snips) to snip them just above the soil line. This ensures a continuous harvest as the remaining seedlings continue to grow.
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Experiment with Different Varieties: Don't be afraid to explore a variety of microgreens to discover your favorites. Mix and match flavors and colors to create a vibrant and nutritious addition to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes.
Growing microgreens at home is a rewarding and straightforward endeavour, providing not only a fresh supply of nutritious greens but also a therapeutic and enjoyable gardening experience. With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to cultivating a microgreen haven right in your own home.
Check out our range of Micropod's quality Microgreens products and happy growing!