Microgreens are a powerhouse of nutrients, easy to grow, and a perfect addition to any greenhouse. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, cultivating microgreens in a controlled greenhouse environment ensures consistent growth and a fresh supply of these vibrant greens year-round. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll cover everything from the benefits of growing microgreens to expert tips and seasonal recommendations.
1. How to Choose the Right Microgreens for Your Greenhouse
Growing microgreens inside a greenhouse comes with several advantages. One of the most significant benefits is the ability to control the environment.
- A greenhouse provides a stable temperature, proper humidity levels, and protection from extreme weather conditions.
- This ensures that your microgreens grow consistently, no matter the season.
Another advantage is that greenhouses offer protection from pests and diseases:
- Unlike outdoor gardens, where insects, rodents, and other threats can hinder growth, a greenhouse creates a barrier that keeps your plants safe.
- Additionally, greenhouses allow for year-round harvesting, meaning you can enjoy fresh microgreens even in winter.
Since microgreens have a short growth cycle, having a dedicated space in a greenhouse allows for continuous harvesting.
2. What are the Best Microgreens for Different Seasons
Not all microgreens thrive in the same conditions. Some prefer warmer temperatures, while others grow best in cooler conditions. Knowing which varieties to grow during different seasons can optimize your greenhouse’s productivity.
- During spring and summer, microgreens such as sunflower, basil, amaranth, and mustard greens thrive in the warmth and longer daylight hours. These varieties proliferate and provide a burst of flavor to meals.
- In fall and winter, consider growing kale, radish, broccoli, and collard greens. These hardy microgreens can tolerate cooler temperatures and even thrive with less sunlight.
Year-round staples include pea shoots, arugula, and Swiss chard. These microgreens are resilient and can adapt well to varying greenhouse conditions.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Microgreens
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
To successfully grow microgreens, you will need a few essential materials:
- Invest in shallow trays with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- A high-quality potting soil or an alternative growing medium such as coconut coir is essential to provide nutrients and support root growth.
- Choose organic microgreen seeds to ensure healthy plants free from chemical treatments.
- A spray bottle will help you maintain moisture levels without overwatering.
- If your greenhouse lacks sufficient natural light, consider using grow lights to supplement lighting, ensuring that your microgreens receive at least 12 hours of light daily.
Step 2: Prepare the Growing Medium
- Fill your trays with about 1-2 inches of soil or your chosen growing medium.
- Ensure the soil is evenly spread and slightly damp before planting.
- A well-prepared growing medium promotes root development and prevents uneven growth.
Step 3: Sow the Seeds
- Evenly sprinkle the seeds across the soil's surface, ensuring they are spread out well without overcrowding.
- Lightly press the seeds into the soil, but do not bury them, as microgreens need light to germinate properly.
- After sowing, mist the surface thoroughly to keep the seeds moist.
Step 4: Germination and Covering
- Cover the trays with a humidity dome or another tray to create darkness. This step helps promote strong root growth and germination.
- Keep the trays in a warm location inside the greenhouse, ideally between 65-75°F.
- Check daily and mist as needed to maintain moisture levels, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to mold growth.
Step 5: Provide Light and Ventilation
Once the seeds have germinated, which usually takes 3-5 days, remove the cover and expose the seedlings to light.
- Position the trays near a greenhouse window or use grow lights to provide adequate illumination.
- Proper ventilation is also essential to prevent mold and fungal diseases.
- Good air circulation strengthens plant stems and keeps the growing environment healthy.
Step 6: Watering and Maintenance
Watering microgreens correctly is crucial for healthy growth. The best method is bottom watering, where you place the tray in a shallow water container, allowing the soil to absorb moisture from below. This technique prevents fungal issues and encourages strong root development.
- Maintain a consistent watering schedule, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy.
- Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can slow growth.
- Additionally, monitor the humidity levels in your greenhouse to prevent excess moisture from accumulating.
Step 7: Harvesting Microgreens
Microgreens are ready to harvest in about 7-14 days, depending on the variety:
- Look for the first set of true leaves, which indicate they are mature enough to be cut. Using clean scissors, snip the microgreens just above the soil line.
- Avoid pulling them out by the roots to maintain the integrity of the growing medium for future use.
- After harvesting, gently rinse the microgreens and let them air dry before storage.
- Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. Fresh microgreens can last up to a week when stored properly.
Expert Tips for a Successful Microgreen Harvest
- One of the most common issues when growing microgreens is mold. To prevent this, ensure proper air circulation in your greenhouse.
- Using fans or leaving windows slightly open can help reduce excessive humidity.
- Additionally, avoid overcrowding trays, as this can create a damp environment where mold thrives.
- Extending the growth cycle by a few extra days can enhance the flavor and color of microgreens.
- Some varieties develop a deeper taste and richer hues if left to grow for another week.
Experimenting with different harvest times can help you find the perfect balance of taste and nutrition.
Get Started With Microgreens in Your Greenhouse
Growing microgreens in a greenhouse is an easy, rewarding process that provides fresh, nutritious greens year-round. With minimal effort and the right conditions, you can enjoy a continuous supply of these flavorful plants while making the most of your greenhouse space.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, microgreens are a fantastic addition to any greenhouse setup. Explore our collection of DIY kits and get started with microgreens today!