Over the past ten years, demand for microgreens, which are tiny edible plants picked soon after the cotyledons, or first real leaves, have appeared, has increased. They frequently have greater amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than their fully matured counterparts, which gives them a tremendous nutritional and flavouring punch. Microgreen trays are becoming important to many gardeners and urban farmers as these practises gain popularity. These trays provide a practical solution to grow these healthy greens in constrained settings. We’ll examine the characteristics, advantages, and methods of microgreen trays in this post.
How do Microgreen Trays work?
Shallow pots called “microgreen trays” are made particularly for growing microgreens. These trays are more suited for microgreens’ quick growth cycles and shallow root systems than conventional pots or planters. They typically contain a base tray and a top, and they could also have an insert with holes for drainage. Some trays also have a double-layer structure where the top layer contains the soil and seeds while the bottom layer collects extra water.
Advantages of Microgreen Trays
Effective use of space: Microgreen trays enable dense planting, maximising the amount of greens you can grow in a restricted space. This is especially helpful for urban residents who have little room.
development at its Best: The trays are made to offer microgreens the best circumstances for quick and wholesome development. The modest depth guarantees enough room for the roots, while the lid’s greenhouse effect preserves warmth and moisture.
Usefulness: Even beginners may reap a plentiful crop with the help of clear instructions and a little practise. Watering, harvesting, and seeding a fresh crop are easy and basic procedures.
Versatility: You can grow a range of microgreens in the same kind of tray, from radishes and mustards to rocket and basil. This implies that from one harvest to the next, you may choose from a variety of tastes and nutrients.
Sustainability: Microgreen trays may often be reused because they are composed of sturdy materials. Growing your own vegetables also reduces the demand for store-bought food, which reduces the use of plastic packaging and the emissions produced during transportation.
Tips and Techniques for Utilising Microgreen Trays
A typical medium for microgreens is soil, although there are other possibilities as well, such as coconut coir or vermiculite. The goal is to make sure there is excellent drainage and moisture retention.
Seeding: Distribute seeds uniformly throughout the surface of the medium you have selected. They don’t need to be buried; a gentle push to make sure they make contact with the medium will do. One defining aspect of microgreens is the dense planting.
Watering: Mist the seeds lightly with a spray bottle to start. When the roots are well-established, water from below by pouring water into the bottom tray, enabling the roots to absorb what they want without upsetting the delicate plants.
Lighting: Microgreens can sprout in the dark, but they require light to flourish, whether it be natural or artificial. Make that they get as least 4-6 hours of direct sunshine or 12–14 hours of grow light exposure.
Harvesting: Your microgreens are ready to be picked once they have grown their first real leaves. Depending on the kind, this normally takes 7 to 21 days. Just above the soil level, cut the stems with a pair of scissors.
Cleaning and upkeep: After each harvest, properly clean your trays. By doing this, you may avoid the growth of mould or germs that can harm your next batch. As required, change or replenish the growing media.
As a result,
Microgreen trays offer a fascinating way for beginning and experienced gardeners to delve into the world of microgreens. They serve as evidence that you don’t need big, open expanses to grow food. These trays may produce fresh, wholesome greens all year round with a little bit of care and attention. Growing microgreens is a modest but significant step towards independence and a better diet at a time when the globe is battling sustainability and health issues. Microgreen trays may be included into your daily routine to provide a variety of advantages, whether you live in an urban area and have a windowsill or a backyard garden.