How To Grow Microgreens In A Mason Jar: Everything You Need To Know

Are you interested in growing fresh and nutritious microgreens at home but don’t have a lot of space or equipment? Look no further than a simple mason jar! 

Microgreens are young vegetable and herb plants grown in small spaces and harvested within a week or two. Now you may be thinking about how to grow microgreens in a mason jar. 

To grow microgreens in a mason jar, you’ll need seeds, potting soil, water, a mason jar, and a lid with a screen. Fill the jar with soil, plant the seeds, and water regularly to grow microgreens in a mason jar.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of growing microgreens in a mason jar, from choosing the right seeds to harvesting your delicious and healthy crop.

Can You Really Grow Microgreens In A Mason Jar?

Yes, growing microgreens in a mason jar is possible using a simple method. Growing microgreens in a mason jar is a popular method due to its ease and benefits. 

Within a few days, the sprouts will appear and can be harvested for salads and meals. Microgreens are packed with nutrients and can be grown in any container, but the mason jar method is particularly convenient.

Advantages Of Growing Microgreens In A Mason Jar

Growing microgreens in a mason jar have gained popularity in recent years due to the many benefits of this method. Here are some advantages of growing microgreens in a mason jar:

Nutrient-dense Food

Microgreens are packed with nutrients and antioxidants; growing them in a mason jar is an easy way to incorporate them into your meals. These tiny plants are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, and are a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.

Easy and Cost-effective Method

Growing microgreens in a mason jar is a simple and affordable process. You only need a few supplies, such as a mason jar, seeds, and water, and you can grow microgreens indoors without needing soil or expensive equipment.

Short Growing Process

The growing process for microgreens in a mason jar is relatively short, taking only a few hours to a few days. This means you can enjoy fresh microgreens in no time and have a constant supply of them on hand.

No Excess Water

One of the benefits of growing microgreens in a mason jar is that you can control the amount of water they receive. Unlike traditional gardening methods, there is no excess water to worry about, as the jar allows for proper drainage, preventing water from accumulating at the bottom.

Direct Sunlight is Not Necessary

While microgreens do require light to grow, they do not necessarily need direct sunlight. A mason jar provides enough light for the microgreens to thrive; if necessary, you can use a grow light to supplement their growth.

Space-saving Container

A mason jar is ideal for growing microgreens as it takes up little space and can fit on a windowsill or countertop. It is also portable, allowing you to move it around the house as needed.

How To Grow Microgreens In A Mason Jar

Growing your microgreens in a mason jar makes adding fresh, nutritious greens to your meals easy and fun. Microgreens are packed with nutrients and can be grown in just a few days, making them an excellent addition to salads, sandwiches, and other meals. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow microgreens in a mason jar.

Materials Needed

To grow microgreens in a mason jar, you will need the following materials:

• Wide-mouth mason jar
• Screen material or lid screens
• Microgreen seeds (such as radish or broccoli sprouts)
• Freshwater
• Spray bottle
• Direct sunlight or grow light

1. Choose Your Seeds: Select the microgreen seeds you want to grow. Radish and broccoli sprouts are popular and can be found at most health food stores or online.
2. Prepare Your Mason Jar: Clean your mason jar thoroughly and remove any labels. Cut a piece of screen material to fit over the mouth of the jar and secure it with a rubber band. Alternatively, you can use a lid screen that fits over the mouth of the jar.
3. Add Seeds: Place one tablespoon of microgreen seeds in the jar and spread them evenly across the bottom. Rinse the seeds with fresh water and drain out the excess water.
4. Water and Spray: Add enough fresh water to cover the seeds by about an inch. Rinse the seeds with fresh water twice daily and drain the excess water. Use a spray bottle to mist the seeds with fresh water, ensuring they stay moist but not soggy.
5. Place in Sunlight: Place the jar in a sunny location or under a grow light. Microgreens need direct sunlight, or a grow light for 12–16 hours daily.
6. Watch them Grow: Within a few days, your microgreens will start to sprout. Continue to rinse and mist them daily. As they grow, the leaves will turn green, and you can harvest them by cutting them just above the soil level.

How Long It Takes To Grow Microgreens In A Mason Jar

Growing microgreens in a mason jar is a simple and convenient method that can take anywhere from 3 to 10 days, depending on the type of microgreen. The process involves soaking the seeds overnight, draining excess water, and spreading them on a screen or mesh lid inside the mason jar. 

Rinse and drain the seeds twice daily and keep them in indirect sunlight or grow light for better growth. Some popular microgreens to grow in a mason jar include radish, broccoli sprouts, and mung bean sprouts. 

The benefit of growing microgreens in a mason jar is that they can be harvested and added to meals for salads or other fresh food dishes.

How Often To Water When Growing Microgreens In A Mason Jar

Watering is crucial for their growth and nutrient intake when growing microgreens in a mason jar. To ensure the microgreens receive enough water, but not too much, it is recommended to water them once or twice a day. 

Pour fresh water gently over the sprouts, allowing excess water to drain out of the container. The mason jar method is a great way to grow microgreens as it provides ample space for the plants to grow, and the container can be placed in direct sunlight or under a grow light. 

In just a few hours, the microgreens will begin to sprout and can be harvested for fresh salads and meals in about an inch of growth. The benefit of growing microgreens is that they are packed with nutrients, and the process is a simple and easy method for anyone to try at home.

Final Words

Growing microgreens in a mason jar is a simple and fun way to incorporate fresh and nutritious greens into your diet. With just a few materials and patience, you can constantly supply tasty and healthy microgreens at your fingertips. 

Hopefully, you’ve figured out how to grow microgreens in a mason jar. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow and care for your microgreens. So why not give it a try and see the benefits for yourself? Happy growing!