Knowledge base for microgreens growers

Grow Microgreens Without Soil: A Beginner’s Guide

  • By: admin61
  • Date: June 4, 2023
  • Time to read: 11 min.

Growing microgreens is a simple and effective way to add fresh, nutrient-rich greens to your diet. Traditionally, microgreens are grown in soil, but there is a way to grow them without soil. Hydroponic gardening is a popular method for growing microgreens without soil.

Hydroponic gardening involves growing plants in nutrient-rich water instead of soil. This method allows for year-round growth, maximizes space, and requires less maintenance than traditional soil gardening. To grow microgreens without soil, you will need a growing tray, a growing medium, and seeds. The growing medium can be made of a variety of materials such as coconut coir, peat moss, or vermiculite. The seeds should be planted evenly on the growing medium and kept moist until they sprout.

Growing microgreens without soil is an easy and efficient way to provide fresh greens to your diet. Hydroponic gardening is a great alternative to traditional soil gardening and allows you to grow microgreens year-round. With the right materials and a little bit of patience, you can grow your own microgreens without soil and enjoy the benefits of fresh, nutrient-rich greens.

Benefits of Growing Microgreens Without Soil

Growing microgreens without soil has become increasingly popular in recent years. Here are some benefits of growing microgreens without soil:

  • Year-round growth: Hydroponic gardening allows for year-round growth of microgreens, regardless of the weather conditions outside. This means you can enjoy fresh and nutritious microgreens all year long.
  • Maximizes space: Growing microgreens without soil requires less space than traditional soil-based methods, making it an ideal option for those with limited space. Hydroponic systems can be set up in basements, garages, shelves, or anywhere you want.
  • Reduced indoor pollution: Growing microgreens without soil can help reduce indoor pollution. Soil-based gardening can introduce pests, molds, and other contaminants into your home. Hydroponic gardening eliminates these risks.
  • Faster growth: Microgreens grown in a hydroponic system tend to grow faster than those grown in soil. This is because hydroponic systems provide a consistent supply of nutrients and water to the plants.
  • Water conservation: Hydroponic gardening uses less water than traditional soil-based gardening. This is because the water in a hydroponic system is recirculated and reused, rather than being lost through evaporation or runoff.

In summary, growing microgreens without soil offers several benefits, including year-round growth, space maximization, reduced indoor pollution, faster growth, and water conservation. It’s an excellent option for those who want to grow fresh and nutritious microgreens in a small space, without the risks associated with soil-based gardening.

Supplies Needed

Growing microgreens without soil is a simple and rewarding process that requires only a few essential supplies. Here are the supplies you will need to grow microgreens without soil:

Seeds

The first step to growing microgreens without soil is to obtain the right seeds. Organic seeds that are specifically sold for growing microgreens are the best choice. You can find these seeds at nurseries and online retailers. Some popular microgreen varieties include arugula, basil, broccoli, chia, kale, and radish.

Growing Trays

To grow your microgreens, you will need to have a growing tray. The tray should be thick, in perfect condition, and without any holes. You can use plastic or metal trays, but make sure they are food-grade and safe for growing edible plants. The size of the tray depends on how many microgreens you want to grow. A 10×20 inch tray is a popular choice for growing microgreens.

Watering Can

A watering can is essential for watering your microgreens. You can use any type of watering can, but make sure it has a fine spout to avoid overwatering your plants. Overwatering can lead to mold growth and other problems. Make sure you use unchlorinated water to avoid damaging your microgreens.

Spray Bottle

A spray bottle is useful for misting your microgreens. Misting helps to keep the growing medium moist without overwatering. You can use any type of spray bottle, but make sure it is clean and free of any chemicals or residues.

Light Source

Microgreens need plenty of light to grow healthy and strong. You can use natural sunlight or artificial light to provide the necessary light. If you are growing microgreens indoors, you will need to provide them with at least 12 hours of light per day. You can use grow lights or fluorescent lights to provide the necessary light. Make sure the light source is not too close to your microgreens to avoid burning them.

In summary, growing microgreens without soil requires only a few essential supplies. You will need organic seeds, a growing tray, a watering can, a spray bottle, and a light source. With these supplies and a little bit of patience, you can grow fresh and nutritious microgreens all year round.

Choosing the Right Seeds

When it comes to growing microgreens without soil, choosing the right seeds is crucial. Here are some tips to help you select the best seeds for your microgreens:

  • Choose organic seeds that are specifically sold for growing microgreens. These seeds are usually untreated and free of harmful chemicals, making them safer to consume.
  • Look for seeds that are fresh and have a high germination rate. You can check the seed packet for the germination rate, which is the percentage of seeds that will sprout.
  • Consider the flavor and texture of the microgreens you want to grow. Some popular microgreens include arugula, kale, radish, and sunflower. Each type of microgreen has its own unique flavor and texture, so choose the ones that appeal to your taste buds.
  • Keep in mind the growing time of the microgreens you want to grow. Some microgreens, such as arugula and radish, can be harvested in as little as 7-10 days, while others, such as sunflower and pea shoots, can take up to 14 days or more.
  • If possible, buy seeds from a reputable supplier that specializes in microgreens. This will ensure that you get high-quality seeds that are specifically suited for growing microgreens.

By following these tips, you can choose the right seeds for your microgreens and ensure a successful harvest.

Preparing the Growing Trays

To grow microgreens without soil, the first step is to prepare the growing trays. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Choose the right tray: The tray should be sturdy, without any holes, and at least 2 inches deep. You can use plastic or metal trays. Make sure the tray is clean and sanitized before use.
  2. Add the growing medium: For soilless method, place the medium in the growing tray and soak it in water. Make sure that the medium is wet but not soggy. If you prefer the soil-based method, put about 1.5 – 2 inches of soil in the growing trays and spread it evenly.
  3. Level the medium: Use a flat tool like a spatula or a piece of cardboard to level the growing medium. Make sure that the medium is evenly spread and has no lumps or bumps.
  4. Water the medium: For soilless method, you can skip this step. But if you are using soil, water the medium until it is moist but not waterlogged. Make sure that the water is evenly distributed throughout the medium.
  5. Add the seeds: Sprinkle the seeds on top of the growing medium. Make sure that the seeds are evenly spaced and not too close to each other. You can use a seed dispenser or your fingers to sow the seeds.
  6. Cover the seeds: Cover the seeds with a thin layer of growing medium or vermiculite. This will help to keep the seeds moist and prevent them from drying out.
  7. Label the tray: Write the name of the seed and the date of sowing on a label and stick it on the tray. This will help you to keep track of the seeds and their growth.

By following these steps, you can prepare the growing trays for your microgreens and ensure a successful harvest.

Watering and Fertilizing Your Microgreens

Microgreens require regular watering to ensure their growth and development. Watering should be done carefully to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the growing medium and the environmental conditions. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top layer of the growing medium feels dry to the touch.

When watering, it is important to use clean water that is free from contaminants. Tap water can contain chlorine, which can harm the microgreens. If using tap water, leave it out for a few hours to allow the chlorine to evaporate. Alternatively, use filtered or distilled water.

Fertilizing microgreens is essential for their growth and development. The type and amount of fertilizer will depend on the growing medium and the stage of growth. Organic fertilizers are recommended as they provide a slow-release of nutrients and do not harm the microgreens.

When using soil as the growing medium, a balanced organic fertilizer can be added to the soil before planting the seeds. Alternatively, liquid organic fertilizers can be added to the water when watering the microgreens. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to nutrient burn and damage to the microgreens.

When growing microgreens hydroponically, a nutrient solution is required to provide the necessary nutrients for growth. The nutrient solution should be changed regularly to avoid the buildup of salts and other contaminants.

In summary, regular and careful watering, along with appropriate fertilization, is essential for the successful growth and development of microgreens. The frequency and type of watering and fertilization will depend on the growing medium and the stage of growth. By following these guidelines, one can grow healthy and nutritious microgreens without soil.

Harvesting and Storing Your Microgreens

Once your microgreens have reached the desired height, it’s time to harvest them. To do this, use a pair of sharp scissors or a knife to cut the stems just above the soil line. Be sure to avoid pulling the plants out by the roots, as this can damage the delicate roots of the remaining microgreens.

After harvesting, it’s important to store your microgreens properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. First, rinse the harvested microgreens in cool water to remove any soil or debris. Then, gently pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel.

Next, you can store your microgreens in a few different ways. One option is to place them in an airtight container lined with a damp paper towel. This will help to maintain humidity and keep the microgreens fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Alternatively, you can store your microgreens in a plastic bag with a few small holes punched in it to allow for airflow. Again, be sure to include a damp paper towel to maintain humidity. This method can also keep your microgreens fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.

It’s important to note that microgreens are best enjoyed fresh, so it’s recommended to harvest and consume them as soon as possible. However, if you need to store them for a short period of time, these methods can help to maintain their quality and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to grow microgreens hydroponically

Hydroponic gardening is a popular way to grow microgreens without soil. To grow microgreens hydroponically, you will need a container, a nutrient solution, and a growing medium. The growing medium can be anything from coconut coir to rockwool. The seeds are planted in the growing medium, and the nutrient solution is added to the container. The solution is then circulated to the plants through a pump or gravity.

How to grow microgreens in trays

Growing microgreens in trays is another popular way to grow these plants. You can use any shallow tray, such as a baking tray or plastic container. Fill the tray with a growing medium, such as potting soil or coconut coir. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the growing medium, and mist them with water. Cover the tray with another tray or a lid to keep in moisture and darkness. Once the seeds have germinated, remove the cover and place the tray in a sunny spot.

How to grow microgreens on paper towel

Growing microgreens on a paper towel is a quick and easy way to get started. Simply moisten a paper towel and place it in a shallow tray. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the paper towel and cover with another moistened paper towel. Keep the paper towels moist and in a sunny spot. Once the seeds have germinated, remove the top paper towel and place the tray in a sunny spot.

How to grow microgreens in a jar

Growing microgreens in a jar is a fun and easy way to grow these plants. Fill a jar with a growing medium, such as potting soil or coconut coir. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the growing medium and mist with water. Cover the jar with a piece of cheesecloth or a lid with holes. Keep the jar in a sunny spot and mist the seeds with water daily.

Cheapest way to grow microgreens

The cheapest way to grow microgreens is to use a paper towel or a tray with a growing medium. You can also reuse containers from around your home, such as plastic takeout containers or egg cartons. The seeds themselves are relatively inexpensive, and you can often find them in bulk online.

Best seeds for microgreens

The best seeds for microgreens are those that germinate quickly and have a good flavor. Some popular seeds for microgreens include arugula, basil, broccoli, chia, cilantro, kale, and radish. It is important to use seeds that are specifically labeled for microgreens, as regular seeds may not germinate properly.

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