Growing Microgreens Without Soil: Tips and Tricks for Success

June 2023

Can You Grow Microgreens Without Soil?

Yes, you can grow microgreens without soil using alternative common methods such as hydroponics or using growing mediums like coco coir, peat moss, or paper towels.

This soilless approach provides a convenient and accessible way to grow microgreens, allowing you to enjoy their fresh flavors and nutritional benefits with minimal effort and without the mess associated with traditional gardening methods.

Here are four reasons why you should consider growing microgreens hydroponically:

Year-Round Growth: One of the significant benefits of the hydroponic method is the ability to grow microgreens year-round, regardless of the external climate. By providing a controlled indoor environment, you can ensure a steady supply of fresh microgreens regardless of the season. This is especially advantageous in regions with harsh winters or limited outdoor growing space.
Maximum Space utilization: Hydroponic systems are space-efficient, making them ideal for urban dwellers or those with limited gardening areas. Vertical hydroponic setups, such as vertical towers or stacked trays, allow you to maximize vertical space by growing multiple layers of microgreens. This enables you to produce a higher yield of microgreens in a smaller footprint compared to traditional soil-based gardening.
Uses Less Water: Hydroponic systems utilize water efficiently compared to traditional soil-based growing methods. They typically recirculate water, minimizing waste and reducing overall water consumption. The water in the system is absorbed directly by the microgreen roots, resulting in less evaporation and water loss. This water-saving aspect makes hydroponics an environmentally friendly choice.
Easier: Hydroponic growing eliminates the need for soil, which can be messy and require frequent maintenance. By removing soil from the equation, you reduce the risk of soil-borne pests, weed growth, and the effort involved in soil preparation and cleanup. Hydroponic systems provide a clean and controlled environment for microgreens, making it easier to maintain proper nutrient levels, pH balance, and overall plant health.

In addition to these benefits, hydroponic systems allow for precise control over growing conditions, including light, temperature, and nutrient delivery. This level of control enables optimal plant growth and can result in higher-quality, more vibrant microgreens.

Microgreens

Hydroponic Microgreens

Hydroponic microgreens are a type of micrograms that is grown without soil. They are typically grown in nutrient-rich solutions, which allows the plants to grow rapidly and produce high yields.Hydroponic microgreens can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads and stir-fries. Their intense green color and fresh flavor make them an ideal option for use in recipes.

What are the most suitable microgreens to grow hydroponically?

There are many types of microgreen varieties that can be grown hydroponically, but the best way to determine if a particular microgreen will grow well in a hydroponic system is to try it out. Hydroponic systems can range in size from small units used in home gardens to large commercial operations.Here's a list of varieties of microgreens that thrive when grown hydroponically:

Amaranth microgreen: Known for its vibrant red and green leaves, amaranth microgreens add a splash of color and a mild, earthy flavor to dishes.
Basil: Basil microgreens bring the distinctive aroma and flavor of the herb to your meals. They are excellent in salads, sandwiches, and as a topping for pizzas.
Kale: Kale microgreens offer a concentrated dose of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K. They have a slightly bitter taste and make a nutritious addition to smoothies, salads, and stir-fries.
Broccoli: Broccoli microgreens are rich in antioxidants and contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts. Their mild, slightly peppery flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Mustard: Mustard microgreens have a spicy kick, adding a burst of flavor to salads, sandwiches, and Asian-inspired dishes.
Borage: Borage microgreens feature delicate, cucumber-flavored leaves and are often used as a garnish or added to salads and summer drinks.
Beet: Beet microgreens have a distinctive earthy flavor and a beautiful reddish-purple color. They are packed with nutrients and can be used as a nutritious addition to salads and sandwiches.
Parsley: Parsley microgreens have a fresh, herbaceous flavor and are a popular garnish for a wide range of dishes. They are rich in vitamins and can be added to salads, soups, and sauces.
Peas: Pea microgreens are tender and have a sweet, delicate flavor reminiscent of fresh peas. They are a great addition to salads, stir-fries, and sandwiches.

Here are the essential materials items for growing microgreens without soil.

Growing Medium: Select an inert growing medium that will support the roots and provide stability. Common options include coconut coir, or specialized microgreen grow mats.
Seeds: Choose high-quality microgreen seeds of your preferred varieties. Popular choices include amaranth, basil, kale, broccoli, mustard, and pea microgreens. Check the seed packet and ensure that the seeds are specifically labeled for microgreen cultivation.
Water: You will need clean, filtered water to maintain proper hydration for the microgreens. Ensure that your water source is free from contaminants and chlorine, which can be harmful to the plants.
Light Source: Provide adequate direct sunlight for the microgreens to grow. If natural sunlight is limited, consider using artificial grow lights. LED grow lights or fluorescent lights arepopular choices due to their energy efficiency and ability to provide the required spectrum of light for optimal growth.
Nutrients: Depending on your hydroponic system, you may need a nutrient solution to provide essential nutrients to the microgreens. Commercially available hydroponic nutrient mixes specifically designed for microgreens are readily available. Alternatively, you can create your own nutrient solution using appropriate hydroponic fertilizers.
pH Testing Kit: To ensure proper nutrient uptake by the microgreens, monitor and adjust the pH of the nutrient solution as needed. A pH testing kit will help you maintain the ideal pH range for hydroponic cultivation (usually between 5.5 and 6.5 for most microgreens).

Growing Microgreens Without Soil Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Water

Ensure you have clean water for your hydroponic system. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain chlorine or other contaminants that can harm your microgreens. Fill a container with water and let it sit for 24 hours to allow any chlorine to dissipate.

Step 2: Fill the Trays

Take your hydroponic trays or containers and fill them with the chosen growing medium, such as coconut coir or plastic trays Spread the medium evenly across the trays, ensuring consistent water levels. One of the best ways to grow microgreens is on paper towels. Paper towels are cheap, easy to store, and easy to use.

Step 3: Spread the Seeds

Sprinkle the microgreen seeds evenly over the surface of the growing medium. For best results, aim for a dense but not overcrowded distribution. Lightly press the seeds into the medium to ensure good seed-to-medium contact.

Step 4: Keep the seeds Moist

To facilitate germination, mist the microgreens seeds with water or use a spray bottle to moisten the growing medium gently. The medium should remain consistently moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing process. Check the moisture levels regularly and adjust watering as needed.

Step 5: Germinate the Seeds

Cover the trays with a humidity dome or plastic wrap to create a greenhouse-like environment that retains moisture. Place the trays in a warm location with indirect light or use a seedling heat mat to promote germination. Maintain a temperature of around 21°C for optimal germination.

Step 6: Use Grow Lights

Once the seeds have germinated and the microgreens start to emerge, it's time to provide them with light. Place the trays under grow lights or near a sunny window with at least 12-16 hours of light per day. Adjust the height of the lights to keep them a few inches above the microgreens.

Step 7: Harvest

Allow the microgreens to grow for 7-14 days, depending on the variety and desired size. During this time, continue to water the growing medium as needed and ensure proper airflow to prevent mold or fungal growth. Once the microgreens have reached the desired height (usually around 1-2 inches), these baby plants are ready to be harvested.

To harvest, use sharp scissors or a sharp knife to cut the microgreens just above the growing medium. Rinse them gently to remove any loose particles and pat them dry. Enjoy the fresh and extra flavor of microgreens in salads, sandwiches, or garnishes.

In conclusion, growing microgreens without soil offer a simple, cost-effective, and space-efficient option for cultivating vibrant, fresh, and nutritious baby leafy greens. By utilizing alternative methods such as hydroponics or growing on paper towels, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these vibrant greens, even in limited spaces. This soilless approach not only simplifies the process with easy steps but also provides an affordable option for anyone interested in growing their own nutrient-rich microgreens. Whether you choose to grow microgreens without soil or opt for traditional soil-based methods, incorporating these leafy greens into your diet will add a burst of freshness and healthful benefits to your meals.