February 18, 2012

Midwinter Microgreens

If you are chomping at the bit to start seeds in winter, or just crave some fresh greens, try growing microgreens in recycled containers.  It is easy and quick and doesn't require special equipment or even fertilizing.  Microgreens are a great way to introduce yourself or someone else to seed starting because of the high success rate and quick germination.  It is empowering and fun.  Plus tasty and nutritional.  Experienced gardeners can experiment with their own mixes and unusual choices. 

I tried a spicy mesclun mix that was so easy.  But so hot.  Too much for me, but if you like that, be sure to grow cress or arugula.  Milder lettuces and spinach, as well as aromatic cilantro and basil, also do well.  I have last season's parsley and chives growing in their containers inside but I bet they would do well from seed, too. 

The attached blog post from Botanical Interests gives step by step directions on how to grow microgreens, and includes a list of plants the blogger has grown with good results.  I have stuck mine under lights for a quick start but you don't really need to do that.  When I need the grow light space for long term seed starting I skip it and yet can still grow more plants in a limited space.  

I also have not always covered my containers and they have done fine with misting, but it certainly does help keep the moisture in.  It is a matter of what containers you have and how much you care how they look.  Cute ones on the sill or recycled ones from the bin.  I do both.  Just be sure whatever you use has drainage holes.

I hope you try this and have fun with it.  I would love to hear what seeds you sow inside and how they did.  Based on this list I am going to give cabbage a try - a new plant for me to grow this year.  Might as well start now.

http://www.inthegardenwithjudy.com/gardeningcoach/gardening-101-growing-micro-greens/

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