How To Grow Basil Microgreens: Everything You Need To Know
If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, you’ll love growing basil microgreens! Not only are they a great addition to any meal, but they’re also incredibly easy to grow.
Microgreens are young plants harvested when they’re only a few inches tall. These are perfect for those who want to start growing their herbs but don’t have a lot of space or time. Now you may be wondering: How to grow basil microgreens?
To grow basil microgreens, you’ll need to plant basil seeds in a shallow tray filled with moist, well-draining soil. Place the tray in a sunny spot and keep the soil moist. After a few days, the seeds will sprout, and the microgreens will be ready to harvest in 1–2 weeks.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to grow basil microgreens step-by-step, from choosing the right soil to harvesting your first batch. So, stay with us by reading the entire content.
Overview Of Basil Microgreens
Basil microgreens are young and tender sprouts of the basil plant that are harvested when they are about 1–2 inches tall, just after their first true leaves appear. They have an intense basil flavor and are used to add flavor and color to dishes.
One needs a container with drainage holes, a microgreens tray, and basil seeds to grow basil microgreens. The seeds are germinated in soil or on a moistened paper towel, kept under bright light, and regularly watered with a spray bottle.
Once the microgreens have grown to their desired height, they can be harvested with a sharp knife and stored in an airtight container. Common varieties include sweet and Thai basil, while Genovese basil is a popular choice for its distinctive flavor.
Why You Should Grow Basil MicrogreensÂ
Growing basil microgreens is a fun and easy way to flavor your dishes while providing numerous health benefits. Here are some benefits of growing basil microgreens:
Quick and Easy Germination Process
Basil microgreens grow quickly and easily and have a high germination rate. Within a few days, you should start to see signs of germination, and within a week, your basil microgreens will be ready for harvest.
Intense Basil Flavor
Basil microgreens have a concentrated and intense basil flavor, making them an excellent addition to any dish. Their intense flavor can provide a delicious and aromatic element to salads, sandwiches, soups, and more.
Nutrient-Rich
Basil microgreens contain nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K and minerals like iron and calcium. Consuming these nutrient-dense microgreens can provide numerous health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation.
Requires Little Space
Growing basil microgreens does not require much space. They can be grown in a small container or microgreens tray, making them ideal for apartment dwellers or those with limited outdoor space.
Minimal Watering Needs
Basil microgreens require minimal watering. Lightly misting water using a spray bottle or watering tray is usually sufficient. Overwatering can be harmful to microgreens and may cause them to rot.
Easy to Harvest
Basil microgreens can be harvested when they have reached a height of 1–2 inches and have developed their true leaves. You can cut the microgreens at the soil surface level using a sharp knife. The harvested basil microgreens can be used in various dishes to add flavor.
How To Grow Basil Microgreens
Growing basil microgreens is an easy and rewarding way to add a fresh and flavorful herb to your dishes. Here are the steps you can follow to grow basil microgreens.
Step 1: Choose Your Basil Seeds
Many types of basil seeds are available, such as Genovese Basil, Sweet Basil, and Thai Basil. Choose the type of basil you want to grow based on your preference for taste and color.
Step 2: Prepare the Container
Use a shallow container with drainage holes, such as a microgreens tray, to grow your basil microgreens. Fill the container with 2–3 inches of soil, and level the surface.
Step 3: Plant the Basil Seeds
Sprinkle the basil seeds on the soil surface and cover them lightly with some soil. Mist the soil surface with cool water using a spray bottle.
Step 4: Provide Adequate Light
Basil microgreens require bright light to grow properly. If you are growing them indoors, consider using artificial lights or placing them in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Step 5: Water the Basil Microgreens
Water the basil microgreens regularly to keep the soil moist but not soaked. Use a watering tray or bottle watering to avoid excess water on the soil surface.
Step 6: Monitor Germination and Growth
After a few days, you should see signs of germination, such as sprouts emerging from the soil. Continue to monitor their growth and look for the appearance of true leaves.
Step 7: Harvest the Basil Microgreens
Once the basil microgreens have reached the harvest stage, cut them just above the soil level with a sharp knife. Harvesting when the microgreens are young will give you a sweeter, milder flavor, while mature basils will have a more intense basil flavor.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Basil Microgreens
Use your basil microgreens in various dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, and pasta sauces, to add a fresh and flavorful herb to your meals.
How Long Does It Take For Basil Microgreens To Grow?
Basil microgreens typically take 7–14 days to grow from germination to maturity. To grow them, fill a container with soil about 1 inch deep and moisten it with water using a spray bottle. Scatter basil seeds over the soil surface, then cover them lightly with a bit of soil.
Keep the soil moist by misting it with water regularly, but avoid over-watering to prevent excess moisture. Place the container in a sunny location or under grow lights for 12–16 hours daily.
Once the basil microgreens have grown to around 2–3 inches in height with true leaves, they are ready to be harvested with a sharp knife and used in dishes. Thai basil microgreens can also be grown for an intense basil flavor and vibrant color.
How Long Do Basil Microgreens Last?
Basil microgreens typically last around 7 to 14 days, depending on temperature, light, and humidity. To ensure the longevity of your basil microgreens, it is crucial to keep them in a well-lit area, preferably under grow lights, and water them regularly with a misting spray bottle.
Use a sharp knife to harvest the microgreens when they have reached a height of about 2–3 inches and have developed their true leaves. Use a container with drainage holes and good-quality soil to grow the basil seeds.
Basil microgreens are a delicious and nutritious addition to various dishes, with an intense basil flavor and vibrant color.
How Many Times Do Microgreens Regrow
Microgreens are typically harvested when they are around two inches tall after about two weeks of growth. Unlike mature basils, microgreens are not intended to regrow after harvest. Once they have been harvested, they will not produce new leaves.
To grow more microgreens, you will need to start the process again by planting new basil seeds. Microgreens can be grown in a container with drainage holes, using soil, and watered with a spray bottle. Adequate light, nutrients, and proper watering are important to ensure a bountiful harvest of basil microgreens.
When ready to harvest, cut the microgreens just above the soil surface with a sharp knife. These tiny greens pack an intense basil flavor and add color to dishes.
Final Words
You should get the answer to the question, “How to grow basil microgreens?”. To start growing, you’ll need to choose the right soil, containers, lighting, and water.
Basil microgreens can be harvested in as few as seven days, a great way to flavor various dishes. Considering all of the above, growing basil microgreens is a rewarding experience that can be done relatively quickly.
With the right care and attention, anyone can grow basil microgreens and enjoy the rewards.