Microgreens: growing at home, benefits and how to choose seeds

Growing microgreens at home is a great way to enrich your diet with fresh and he althy plants that can be grown all year round. Microgreens are young sprouts of plants that contain a large amount of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances. It is a nutritional supplement that can be used in cooking, including to decorate dishes and give them a new taste.

What is this

Microgreens are young sprouts of various crops that are less than two weeks old and can grow up to 10 centimeters in height. Within 5-10 days, they reach the peak of nutrition and contain a lot of useful elements for human he alth.

Useful properties

Microgreens are high in vitamins (C, A, K, B2, B6), minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium), folic acid, antioxidants and phytonutrients. Microgreens are also rich in enzymes that help improve digestion and nutrient absorption. Regular consumption of microgreens helps boost immunity, promote bone he alth, lower blood cholesterol levels, maintain he althy gut microflora, and improve circulation.

How to choose seeds

There are several suitable methods for growing microgreens:

• in the soil;
• in the bank;
• on paper sheets or napkins;
• on absorbent cotton or gauze.

Before embarking on this venture, do not forget to purchase the necessary items: a container, seeds of the selected variety, filler and water. The characteristics of growing a particular microgreen depend on the type of seeds used.

Crops best grown as microgreens:

1. Radishes are one of the most popular crops. It grows very fast and can be harvested in just a few days. It is necessary to provide him with constant humidity and light so that the sprouts grow quickly.
2. Mustard - grows fast and has bright green leaves. It has a spicy taste that goes well with salads and sandwiches. Grown both outdoors and indoors.
3. Cress is one of the easiest crops to grow. It has a mild and sweet taste and grows quickly. It is grown on cotton wool, paper or soil. It is important to provide him with light and keep him in a well-ventilated place.
4. Wheat - contains a ton of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is necessary to provide it with constant humidity and sufficient access to light.
5. Shallots are distinguished by their delicate and sweet taste. Needs more light and warmth. Also suitable for growing in the ground or in paper towels.

Also good: beets, arugula, oats, broccoli, rice and corn.

Maintaining a constant level of humidity in the container is very important for the successful growth of microgreens, otherwise the seeds and sprouts will not survive.

Choose the right environment

Microgreens are ideal for southern window sills and balconies, although they can also grow on the less sunny north side. Using a phytolamp will help microgreens develop faster. It's also important to moisturize her with a spray bottle two or three times a day.

The ideal temperature for growing microgreens is between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius. It is advisable to keep it away from heaters that can dry out the air and places with strong drafts. Speci alty mini-farms and trays for growing microgreens are sold in stores, but it is not necessary to purchase them; any plastic containers with sides, boxes for fruits or vegetables, disposable plates and glass jars will do.

Growing Instructions

There are ways to grow microgreens at home that don't require soil. These methods are just as effective as traditional methods and will help you get that superfood in no time.

In a glass jar

For this process, you will need a liter jar, three tablespoons of seeds and a lid with holes or some gauze.

1. Place the seeds in a jar and fill them with water.
2. Leave overnight.
3. Pour out the water in the morning and rinse until it runs clear.
4. Then remove all the liquid from the jar and close it either with a lid or gauze, turning it upside down.

Place the jar in a warm place, rinsing the contents every morning until the sprouts are 3-4 cm tall, at which point they are ready to be eaten.

In gauze

This task will require a container or plastic liner and gauze.

1. Start by folding the gauze in several layers at the bottom of the container, and then spread the seeds on top.
2. Be sure to moisten them thoroughly, then cover them with a thin layer of gauze.

Expert opinionZarechny Maxim ValerievichAgronomist with 12 years of experience. Our best gardening expert.Ask a QuestionAlternatively, cotton pads, paper towels, absorbent cotton, or toilet paper can be used instead of gauze. But at the same time, be careful not to expose the seeds to overdrying or flooding with water.

On a jute rug

You will need a microgreen mat such as jute, coconut or linen and a plastic container.

To start the process, cut the mat to fit inside the container and fill it with water. Scatter your chosen seeds over a dampened surface, then cover with cling film or another mat to keep the moisture in.

Growing Nuances

Growing microgreens is an easy activity that even beginner gardeners can do. However, even experienced gardeners can run into problems.

1. Any sprouts that have begun to form mold or fungus will have to be thrown away. To prevent this, clean containers should be used, and once the seedlings have germinated, kept in a bright spot with sufficient airflow while avoiding overwatering.
2. If the microgreen doesn't vary in height, it likely means that one side isn't getting enough light and shadow balance. If so, turn the other side towards the light source.
3. The germination process usually takes two to three days, but if it takes too long, increase the soil moisture level or soak the seeds for 8-12 hours before planting.
4. Yellow leaves can be a sign of either not enough water or not enough light. Make sure to keep the soil sufficiently moist without watering it, and keep the containers under light.
5. If the seedling tray is in the shade during germination, the leaves may become discolored, but when exposed to sunlight, they will return to their natural green color.

Plant growers harvest microgreens at different times, depending on plant type, growth rate and personal taste. Usually within a week to two weeks, microgreens will be about 5 cm tall with young leaves.

To keep plants producing more greenery, it's best to cut them at the stem without disturbing the roots. In addition, planting fresh seeds every ten days will help ensure a continuous harvest.

It is recommended to pick the greens just before you are going to eat them, as they are very fragile and will not stay fresh for long. In the event that storage is required, it is best to use glass containers.

Microgreens are great for flavoring salads, soups, smoothies, sandwiches and any hot or cold meat or vegetable dishes.

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