In this article we will take you on an exciting journey of exploring the joys of microgreens farming. Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are harvested just a few weeks after germination. These tiny powerhouses are packed with flavour, colour and nutrients, making them the perfect addition for any culinary setting.
Microgreens are not only delicious, they also have tons of health benefits. Studies have shown that these miniature greens contain higher levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. Introducing microgreens into your diet can help boost immunity, digestion and support overall well being.
Microgreens are becoming increasingly popular with health conscious consumers and chefs and can be a rather lucrative career.
Benefits of microgreens
Microgreens have immense amounts of benefits for individuals and the environment.
Microgreens pack a high amount of nutritional punch. Studies have revealed that microgreens can have up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts, making them a great addition to a well balanced diet.
Microgreens farming offers a sustainable and ecofriendly form of agriculture. They take up less land use, water and resources, an excellent choice for urban and small scale gardeners. Microgreens can also be grown indoors, meaning that they can be grown locally near food establishments, without the need for heavily polluting transport options. Microgreens farming is highly appealing to health and environmentally conscious individuals.
Types of microgreens
The world of microgreens is vastly diverse, from the likes of arugula to sunflowers, each type of microgreen has its own unique flavor profile and visual appeal.
One of the most versatile microgreens is the sunflower. They are delicious and are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A,C and E, protein and fiber. Another example is the kale, which is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Their slightly earthy and peppery flavour make them a great addition to dishes like pastas and omelets.
Radish microgreens are also hugely popular, they are not only visually appealing but also provide a range of health benefits including improved digestion and reduced inflammation.
Microgreens are essentially powerhouses of nutrients. Red cabbage microgreens are found to have 40 times more vitamin K than their mature counterparts. while broccoli microgreens can have up to 6 times more Vitamin C.
Microgreens are also rich in essential minerals. They are a great source of iron, calcium and magnesium, which are essential in keeping us healthy and well. Adding microgreens to the diet can help support strong bones, healthy blood and proper muscle and nerve function.
Microgreens are also powerhouses of antioxidants which are vital for combating free radicals and prevent chronic diseases. Studies have shown that microgreens contain higher levels of antioxidants such as carotenoids and polyphenols, compared to their mature counterparts. These can help boost the immune system, improve cardiovascular health and support brain function.
You can get microgreen sprouting seeds online from stores such as everythinggreen.sg, bloomling.com and amazon.com.
Growing microgreens at home
You can start your microgreens farm simply from the comfort of your own home or your backyard. It is a rewarding hobby that could potentially help you earn a lucrative income.
The most popular ways of growing microgreens is by using a simple tray or container. All you need is a tray, some soil or growing medium and microgreen seeds. Fill the tray with the growing medium and scatter the seeds evenly and press them gently into the soil. Ensure the soil stays moist and soon your microgreens will flourish.
Vertical gardening is also a great solution for microgreens farming, especially if you have limited space or are starting your microgreens farm in your basement or garage. With vertical shelves, you can maximize the use of the area and grow multiple varieties of microgreens simultaneously.
You can also make use of hydroponics systems to cultivate microgreens. This method relies on nutrient rich water to nourish the plants, without the use of soil. Hydroponics setup can range from simple table top units to more elaborate systems allowing for both small scale and large scale cultivation.
One also has to ensure that the right growing conditions are provided, ensuring sufficient amount of lighting, temperature and humidity, watering and nutrition management. With the right tools and knowledge it is easy for you to start your own microgreens farm in the comfort of your home.
Best practices for microgreens farming
One of the crucial aspects of microgreens farming is choosing high quality seeds. Choosing organic, non-GMO seeds from reputable suppliers can significantly impact the overall growth, flavour and nutrient profile of your microgreen.
Another crucial aspect of microgreen farming is ensuring proper soil or growing medium preparation. Ensuring the growing medium is well draining, nutrient rich and free from contaminants is crucial for health development of your microgreens. Experimenting with different soil medium and hydroponics solutions can help optimize your growing conditions.
Maintaining optimal environmental conditions such as lighting, temperate and humidity is also crucial in the successful growing of microgreens. Providing the right balance of these conditions can promote rapid growth, vibrant colours and robust flavour profiles in your microgreens. You may also want to invest in climate-controlled growing environments to enhance the quality of your harvest.
Watering and nutrient management is also a crucial factor in ensuring a high quality yield. Finding the right balance between moisture and drainage as well as providing the necessary nutrients can help ensure the overall health and vitality of your microgreens. Regular monitoring and adjustments to your watering and feeding regimen can help prevent issues such as mold, root rot or nutrient deficiencies.