Microgreens have become increasingly popular among home gardeners and health-conscious individuals due to their nutritional density and culinary versatility. However, the process of growing microgreens may seem daunting to some, especially those who lack specialized equipment or gardening experience. In this article, we will explore a fun and easy method for growing microgreens using simple household items, as demonstrated in a YouTube video by Josh Sattin, a microgreens farmer.
Gathering the Materials
Sattin begins by highlighting the simplicity of the materials required for growing microgreens using his method. All that’s needed are two trays (one with holes, one without), potting mix, microgreen seeds, a lamp with a daylight bulb, a drill with a small drill bit, and a rock. These items are commonly found in most households, making this approach accessible to virtually anyone interested in growing microgreens.
Required Materials:
- Two trays: One with holes for drainage and one without.
- Potting mix: Any standard potting mix will suffice for growing microgreens.
- Microgreen seeds: Sattin recommends soaking larger seeds like peas for 6 to 8 hours before planting.
- Lamp with a daylight bulb: A lamp with a bulb between 5,000 and 6,000 Kelvin provides the necessary light spectrum for healthy growth.
- Drill with a small drill bit: Used to create drainage holes in one of the trays.
- Rock: Utilized to provide pressure on the seeds during germination.
Planting the Microgreens
Once the materials are gathered, Sattin demonstrates the planting process, starting with soaking the seeds and preparing the trays. Larger seeds like peas require soaking, while smaller seeds like broccoli or radish can be planted directly. After soaking, the seeds are rinsed and spread evenly over the surface of the potting mix in the tray without holes. The second tray with holes is then placed on top, followed by a rock to provide gentle pressure for germination.
Planting Steps:
- Soak the Seeds: Larger seeds such as peas are soaked for 6 to 8 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Trays: Fill the tray without holes with potting mix and spread the soaked seeds evenly over the surface.
- Create Pressure for Germination: Place the second tray with holes on top of the seeded tray, and add a rock to provide gentle pressure.
Care and Maintenance
After planting, Sattin emphasizes the importance of providing adequate light and water for the microgreens’ growth. A lamp with a daylight bulb should be left on for approximately 16 hours a day to simulate sunlight, while bottom watering ensures even moisture distribution without wetting the foliage. Depending on the type of microgreen, growth can be expected within 2 to 7 days.
Care Tips:
- Lighting: Provide 16 hours of light per day using a lamp with a daylight bulb.
- Watering: Bottom water to ensure even moisture distribution without wetting the foliage.
- Monitoring Growth: Expect growth within 2 to 7 days, depending on the variety of microgreens planted.
Harvesting and Enjoying
After 7 days, the microgreens are ready to harvest and enjoy. Sattin demonstrates how to cut the microgreens above the base of the plant, allowing for continuous growth and potential regrowth for a second harvest. This simple and fun method enables individuals to enjoy fresh, homegrown microgreens with minimal effort and investment.
Harvesting Steps:
- Cutting: Use scissors or a knife to cut the microgreens above the base of the plant.
- Continuous Growth: Allow the remaining microgreens to continue growing for future harvests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing microgreens at home can be both fun and easy, as demonstrated by Josh Sattin’s method utilizing basic household items. By following simple steps for planting, providing adequate care, and harvesting the microgreens, individuals can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh, nutrient-rich greens right from their own kitchen. This approach opens up the world of microgreen cultivation to anyone interested in adding a touch of green to their meals while reaping the nutritional benefits of these miniature powerhouses. With creativity and resourcefulness, growing microgreens becomes a rewarding and accessible endeavor for all.
