Microgreens are vegetable and herb plants harvested very young, typically 7-21 days after germination. They contain significantly more nutrients than their full-grown counterparts. To grow microgreens, you need seeds, growing trays or containers, a growing medium like soil or coconut coir, and access to light. Standard trays are 10x20 inches. Care must be taken to maintain sanitary conditions and allow proper airflow to avoid mold and rot. Common microgreen seeds to use include broccoli, kale, arugula, and sunflower.

1. Microgreens 101
An introduction to growing
& understanding microgreens
Presentation By: Jalynne Goss

2. What are microgreens?
● Microgreens are plants intentionally grown and harvested
in the early stages of development.
● Sprouts are typically harvested after coming out of the
seed. Microgreens can be harvested as early as 7 days and
as late as 21 days.

3. Microgreens vs. grown plants
● The biggest difference between microgreens and their grown counterparts
is nutrients. Microgreens on average contain 4 to 5 times more
nutrients than mature plants.

5. Growing Microgreens
● When it comes to growing
microgreens supplies
are crucial.
● Seeds, grow medium, trays,
racks, lighting, nutrients.
● These can all vary per setup,
but are necessary to grow
microgreens successfully.

6. Growing Microgreens (Seeds)
Seed companies to use:
● Johnny’s Seed
● Trueleaf Market
● Botanical Interest
● High Mowing Seeds
Things to consider:
● Buying in bulk vs Small orders
● Organic Certified Seeds
● Storing seeds for later use

7. Growing Microgreens (trays)
● 10 x 20 trays are the standard
for growing microgreens.
● Mason jars and other food
containers can also be used to
grow microgreens. However,
microgreens grown this way
should not be sold.

8. Growing Microgreens (Grow Medium)
● The ideal grow medium will have
a ph balance around 6.5
● If growing organic is important
to you, make sure to pick
mediums that are certified
organic
● Make sure that the medium is
good at absorbing water (do not
over water)
● If you plan to add nutrients
make sure your medium has little
to no nutrients

9. Growing Microgreens (Light)
● The best thing about microgreens
is that they can be grown
indoors in nearly any
environment(apartments, window
sills, basements, etc..)
● Make sure they are in areas with
plenty of light, cover seeds for
a few days to encourage growth
● Microgreens can be grown with
natural or artificial light
● If using artificial light LED’s
are recommended

10. Microgreen Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
● Blackout Period for 3-4 Days
● Add Weight to Germinate
● Watch Air for Humidity
● Keep Air Flowing
● Keep Area Clean

11. Microgreen Do’s and Don’ts(Cont..)
Don’t:
● Make Everything A Microgreen
● Top Water Your Microgreens
● Mistake Roots Hairs for Mold
● Expose to Light too Early
● Reuse Trays Without
Cleaning Them

12. Sanitation/ Fungicides
● Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide
● Need Oil
● Bleach
● Organic Cleaners

13. How it’s done
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