Your choice of lighting has an enormous influence over both its flavor and nutritional value of microgreens, due to photosynthesis’ reliance on sunlight for functioning. Light can also influence concentration of phytonutrients; different wavelengths within the light spectrum can enhance or suppress certain chemical production; for instance blue light increases chlorophyll content while red can boost antioxidant levels in microgreens.
As there are multiple methods available for providing microgreens with adequate lighting, there are various solutions that can give them enough light. While ideal circumstances would include growing them outside in sunlight, urban settings with tall buildings casting long shadows and limited sunlight may require another method – indoor growing microgreens is a great way of adding some green to one’s diet!
One question often asked about microgreens is, “How much light do microgreens need?” To provide an answer, three factors need to be taken into consideration: color temperature (5000-6500 Kelvin), intensity and duration. Microgreens prefer full spectrum lighting with an intensity level high enough to stimulate growth without burning their leaves; 12-16 hours a day is ideal.
Once your microgreens are planted and in their trays, they must be exposed to light for 4-7 days until harvest time. During this period, seeds should germinate and start growing into their first true leaves; you can help the process along by placing the trays near a sunny window or setting an electric timer so the lights come on for 12-16 hours each day.
Microgreens also require water. For best results, it is advised to mist trays several times each day with a spray bottle to maintain moist soil conditions and warmth. If using a tray with a catchment basin, make sure that it is filled to 14″ deep; this will ensure that no dry patches appear and that roots don’t become parched without enough moisture.
Additionally, the trays should be sprayed with de-greasing spray to keep them from becoming sticky and difficult to harvest. Finally, adding microgreens as an extra hit of flavor to your meals can add an extra element. So next time you are cooking something up try including fresh locally-grown microgreens into salad or sandwich creations! You won’t be disappointed! For even more microgreen goodness don’t forget our tasty microgreen recipes – we guarantee it!