How To Grow Microgreens In A Greenhouse: All You Need To Know
Have you ever wanted to add fresh, nutrient-packed microgreens to your meals but struggled to find them at your local grocery store? Look no further than your backyard greenhouse!
Growing microgreens in a greenhouse is an easy and convenient way to cultivate these miniature vegetables year-round, regardless of the outdoor climate.
Not only are they a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies, but they are also packed with vitamins and minerals. Now the question is how to grow microgreens in a greenhouse.
To grow microgreens in a greenhouse, you will need to provide adequate light, maintain a consistent temperature of around 70 °F, and keep the air humidity level high. You should use a soil-less growing medium, such as a hydroponic growing system, to provide the microgreens with adequate nutrients.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to grow microgreens in your greenhouse, from selecting the right seeds to harvesting your crop.
Can I Grow Microgreens In A Greenhouse?
Yes, microgreens can be grown in a greenhouse. Greenhouses provide an ideal environment for microgreens to grow, offering protection from the elements and allowing growers to control temperature, humidity, and light conditions.
To grow microgreens in a greenhouse, you will need seeds, soil or compost, a spray bottle, and a light source. Larger seeds can be used for microgreens grown in a greenhouse than indoors.
Ensure the correct seed density, moisten the soil using the spray bottle, and provide adequate lighting. The optimal temperature for germination is usually around 70 °F. Costs associated with growing microgreens in a greenhouse will vary depending on factors such as overhead costs and production time.
Advantages Of Growing Microgreens In A Greenhouse
Growing microgreens in a greenhouse are becoming increasingly popular due to the benefits it provides growers. Here, we will discuss the advantages of growing microgreens in a greenhouse.
Optimal Temperature
One of the main advantages of growing microgreens in a greenhouse is the ability to control the temperature. The optimal temperature for microgreen growth is between 60-75 °F. A greenhouse provides the perfect environment to maintain the required temperature, which is crucial for the germination and growth of microgreens.
Controlled Watering
Microgreens require a lot of water, and a greenhouse allows growers to control the amount of water the plants receive. Growers can use a spray bottle or drip irrigation system to water the plants evenly, ensuring each plant gets the required water. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to stunted growth or the death of the plant, making it important to maintain proper watering.
Extended Growing Times
Greenhouses provide a longer growing season for microgreens, allowing growers to produce more crops yearly. This is particularly advantageous for areas with short growing seasons or colder climates, where outdoor microgreens could not grow for extended periods.
Optimal Lighting
Light is another crucial factor in microgreen growth, and a greenhouse provides ample plant lighting options. Growers can use natural light or supplement with artificial light or grow lights to provide the necessary light intensity and duration for optimal growth. Additionally, a greenhouse can protect microgreens from excessive direct sunlight, which can harm plants.
Improved Soil
A greenhouse allows for better soil management, including the ability to use compost or other soil amendments to improve soil quality. This helps to create a better growing environment for microgreens, leading to healthier and more robust crops.
How To Grow Microgreens In A Greenhouse
Greenhouses are perfect for growing microgreens, providing a controlled environment for optimal growth. Microgreens are nutrient-rich greens harvested at an early growth stage, typically between 7–14 days. Here, we will discuss how to grow microgreens in a greenhouse.
1. Selecting Seeds
Choose high-quality microgreen seeds from a reputable supplier. Microgreen seeds are smaller than regular garden seeds, requiring a higher seed density. Ensure you select the correct seed density for your tray size. Also, larger seeds such as sunflower or pea require a more extended germination period, so plan accordingly.
2. Preparing the Soil
Select a soil mix specifically designed for growing microgreens. Alternatively, make your soil by combining compost and coconut coir. Moisten the soil mix with a spray bottle, ensuring it is not too wet, as this can hinder germination.
3. Planting the Seeds
Evenly distribute the seeds over the soil surface and lightly press them into the soil using a small board or the bottom of another tray. Cover the tray with another tray of the same size and weight to keep the seeds in the dark and moist for the germination phase.
4. Germination and Growth
During germination, moisten the soil by misting it with water. Once the microgreens start to emerge, remove the cover tray and move them to an area with plenty of light. Depending on the type of microgreen, they will require 8–16 hours of light per day. Natural light is preferred, but artificial light, such as fluorescent or grow lights, can also be used.
5. Temperature Control
Ensure the greenhouse temperature remains between 60-75 °F (15-23 °C) during the day and 55-65 °F (13-18 °C) during the night. Air circulation can help maintain an optimal temperature for microgreens.
6. Harvesting and Storage
Harvest the microgreens once they have reached the desired height, typically between 1–3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm). Cut the microgreens with scissors and wash them in cold water. Store them in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Common Problems When Growing Microgreens in a Greenhouse
Growing microgreens in a greenhouse can come with its own set of challenges. Here are some common problems that can arise when growing microgreens in a greenhouse:
Water
One common problem that can arise when growing microgreens in a greenhouse is over or under-watering. Maintain the right moisture level for the seeds to germinate and grow. Using a spray bottle to water the seeds is recommended to avoid disturbing the soil and prevent water from pooling in one spot.
Seeds
Another issue that greenhouse growers face is the quality of the seeds. Using low-quality or old seeds can result in poor germination rates or low-quality crops. It is important to source high-quality, fresh seeds from reputable suppliers.
Plants
Microgreens grown in a greenhouse can also face issues with pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies. It is essential to monitor the plants regularly and provide them with the necessary care and nutrients.
Soil
The soil quality is crucial for microgreens’ growth and development. Poor-quality soil can lead to poor-quality crops. You can use a high-quality soil mix or compost for microgreens.
Temperature
Temperature is a critical factor that affects the growth of microgreens. The temperature should be maintained at an optimal level to ensure proper germination and growth. It is recommended to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and make adjustments as necessary.
Lighting
Another critical factor that affects the growth of microgreens is lighting. Insufficient or excessive light can lead to poor-quality crops. You should provide the microgreens with adequate light using a proper light source such as natural light or grow lights.
Final Words
Growing microgreens in a greenhouse is a great way to enjoy fresh, nutritious greens year-round. As you’ve seen, it is not difficult to learn how to grow microgreens in a greenhouse.
With the proper setup and maintenance, you can have a successful microgreens operation that produces high-quality, flavorful microgreens. The key to success is to create an environment that mimics the natural conditions that microgreens need to thrive.