Microgreens, which are immature edible plants plucked just after the first genuine leaves (or cotyledons) grow, have become more popular in the last decade. They carry a nutritional and flavorful punch, generally possessing greater amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than their fully developed counterparts. As urban farming and home gardening become more popular, microgreen trays are becoming a vital tool for many gardeners. These trays provide an effective method for growing these nutritious greens in small places. In this post, we’ll look at the advantages, benefits, and practises of microgreen trays.
What exactly are Microgreen Trays?
Microgreen trays are shallow pots that are particularly intended for growing microgreens. Unlike standard pots or planters, these trays are suited for microgreens’ short development cycle and thin root systems. They typically have a base tray and a cover, as well as an insert with drainage holes. Some trays also include a double-layer structure, with the bottom layer capturing excess water and the upper layer containing the soil and seeds.
The Advantages of Using Microgreen Trays
Microgreen trays enable for intensive planting, increasing the amount of greens you can grow in a short space. This is especially handy for city inhabitants who have little room.
Optimal development: The trays are designed to provide excellent conditions for speedy and healthy development of microgreens. The modest depth provides ample space for roots, while the lid produces a greenhouse effect, retaining moisture and warmth.
Ease of Use: With clear instructions and a little practise, even inexperienced gardeners may reap a rich crop. Watering, harvesting, and seeding a fresh batch are all basic tasks.
Versatility: You may produce a range of microgreens in the same tray, from radishes and mustards to rocket and basil. This means you may have a variety of flavours and nutrients from harvest to harvest.
Microgreen trays are often built of long-lasting materials that may be reused. Growing your own greens reduces the demand for store-bought food, reducing plastic packaging and transportation emissions.
Tips and Techniques for Using Microgreen Trays
Choosing the Right Medium: While soil is a common medium for microgreens, alternative choices such as coconut coir or vermiculite are available. The objective is to maintain enough moisture retention and drainage.
Seeding: Evenly distribute seeds throughout the surface of your selected medium. You don’t have to bury them; a gentle push to ensure contact with the material is plenty. Microgreens are distinguished by their dense planting.
Watering: Mist the seeds with a spray bottle at first. Water from below after they’re established by pouring water into the bottom tray, enabling the roots to absorb what they need without upsetting the delicate plants.
While microgreens can germinate in the dark, they will require light – either natural or artificial – to flourish. Make sure they get at least 4-6 hours of sunshine every day, or 12-14 hours under grow lights.
Harvesting: Your microgreens are ready to harvest once they have formed their first real leaves. Depending on the type, this can take anywhere from 7 to 21 days. Snip the stems slightly above the soil level with a pair of scissors.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Thoroughly clean your trays after each harvest. This avoids the growth of mould or germs, which might contaminate your next batch. As needed, replace or refresh the growing medium.
To summarise
Microgreen trays are an interesting way for both novice and experienced gardeners to discover the world of microgreens. They demonstrate that you don’t need a lot of room to grow your own food. These trays can produce fresh, healthy greens all year with a little care and attention. Growing microgreens is a modest but significant step towards self-sufficiency and a better diet as the globe grapples with sustainability and health problems. Whether you live in an apartment with a windowsill or have a backyard garden, including microgreen trays into your routine can provide several benefits.