How to grow microgreens inside?

How to Grow Microgreens Inside

Microgreens are young, tender greens that are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a popular choice for home gardeners. Growing microgreens indoors allows you to enjoy fresh greens year-round, even if you have limited outdoor space. In this article, we will explore the steps and materials needed to successfully grow microgreens inside.

Setting Up a Microgreens Growing Station Indoors

To begin growing microgreens indoors, you will need to set up a dedicated growing station. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Choose a suitable location: Select a well-lit area in your home that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. Alternatively, you can use artificial grow lights to provide the necessary light.
2. Assemble the necessary materials and equipment: You will need the following items:

• Containers: Use 3-inch peat pots or other suitable containers with drainage holes to grow your microgreens.
• Soilless seed-starting mix: This provides a lightweight and sterile medium for your microgreens to grow in.
• Vermiculite: Use vermiculite to cover the seeds and promote germination.
• Seeds of your choice: Select microgreen seeds based on your preferences and desired flavors.
• Plant labels: Use plant labels to keep track of different varieties of microgreens.
• Plastic wrap: Covering the containers with plastic wrap helps maintain humidity during germination.
• Garden trowel: Use a garden trowel to fill the containers with the seed-starting mix.
• Watering can: Use a watering can to gently water the microgreens.

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Microgreens Indoors

Now that you have gathered the necessary materials, follow these steps to grow microgreens indoors:

1. Dampen the soilless seed-starting mix: Sprinkle warm water onto the mix and blend until thoroughly damp.
2. Fill each container: Fill each container with the premoistened seed-starting mix, leaving some space for the seeds.
3. Sprinkle the seeds: Sprinkle the microgreen seeds evenly over the surface of the mix, sowing them more thickly than usual.
4. Cover the seeds: Follow the planting depth instructions provided on the seed packet and cover the seeds with vermiculite.
5. Label the plantings: Use plant labels to identify the different varieties of microgreens.
6. Water the seeds: Gently water the seeds, making sure not to wash them away.
7. Cover the containers: Cover the containers with plastic wrap or a dome lid to maintain humidity and promote germination.
8. Place the containers in a sunny spot: Position the containers on a sunny windowsill or under artificial grow lights.
9. Water from the bottom: Water the microgreens by pouring water into the drip tray and allowing it to be absorbed into the soilless mix.
10. Monitor and care for the microgreens: Keep an eye on the moisture levels and adjust watering as needed. Remove the cover and heat source once the seeds germinate, and continue to care for the plants by watering as needed.
11. Harvest the microgreens: When the microgreens reach the desired size, harvest them by holding a section with one hand and snipping with scissors. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Tips for Successful Indoor Microgreens Cultivation

Here are some tips to help you succeed in growing microgreens indoors:

• Dampen the soil: It’s important to start with moistened seed-starting mix to provide the right conditions for seed germination.
• Proper spacing: Sow the microgreen seeds more thickly than usual to ensure a dense crop.
• Lighting: Place the containers in a sunny spot or use full-spectrum LED lights to provide sufficient light for growth.
• Watering: Water the microgreens from the bottom to avoid disturbing the delicate seedlings.
• Temperature and humidity: Maintain a stable temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and humidity levels around 50-60% for optimal growth.
• Harvesting: Harvest the microgreens when they reach the desired growth stage by cutting them close to the base with a sharp knife or scissors.
• Storage: Store harvested microgreens by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Monitoring and adjustments: Regularly monitor the growing environment and make adjustments as needed to ensure optimal growth.

Conclusion

Growing microgreens inside allows you to enjoy fresh and nutritious greens throughout the year. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up your own microgreens growing station and cultivate a continuous supply of these flavorful greens. Remember to choose the right containers, provide adequate lighting and moisture, and monitor the growing conditions for successful cultivation.

Related Websites:

• Better Homes & Gardens – Types of Microgreens
• Better Homes & Gardens – How to Grow Microgreens Indoors
• Gardenia Organic – How to Start Microgreens at Home
• Master Microgreens – Raising Microgreens Indoors
• Penn State Extension – A Step-by-Step Guide for Growing Microgreens at Home