Growing microgreens at home is a fun and easy way to add fresh, nutrient-dense greens to your diet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Choose your seeds: There are many different types of microgreens you can grow at home, including broccoli, radish, and arugula. Choose seeds that are labeled as “microgreen seeds” or “sprouting seeds” for best results.
Prepare your soil: Fill a seed tray or container with a good quality seed compost or soil-less compost. Water the compost until it is damp but not waterlogged.
Plant your seeds: Scatter your seeds over the surface of the compost, making sure they are evenly distributed. Press them down gently with your hand or a piece of cardboard to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Cover your seeds: Cover the tray or container with a lid or plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect. This will help to keep the seeds moist and warm while they germinate.
Keep your seeds moist: Check the tray or container every day and mist the seeds with water if the compost looks dry. Keep the compost consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Wait for germination: Most microgreens will germinate within a week, but some can take up to two weeks. Remove the lid or plastic wrap once the seeds have germinated and keep them in a sunny, warm spot.
Harvest your microgreens: Once the seedlings are big enough to eat, usually around 2-3 weeks, cut them just above the soil line with scissors. Rinse them in water and dry them before using them in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish.
Growing microgreens at home is a simple and easy way to have fresh greens all year round. They are also a great way to introduce children to gardening and to teach them about healthy eating. With a little patience and a few basic supplies, you’ll be enjoying your own home-grown microgreens in no time!
