Onion and Leek microgreens are nutritious, flavorful, and easy to grow at home. All you need is a container, some soil, and some seeds. One of the great things about Onion and Leek microgreens is that they are easy to grow from seed. You can even grow them in a pot or container. You only need a pot or container with drainage holes, some potting mix, and seeds. Microgreens are tiny, young plants that have been grown in small containers.
A Step-by-Step Guide for Growing Onion/Leek Microgreens
Requirements for Growing Onion and Leek Microgreens
- Seeds: You can purchase Onion and Leek microgreen seeds online or at a local nursery. Make sure to get non-GMO, organic seeds if possible.
- Containers: Any container with drainage holes will work for growing microgreens. Choose something shallow so the roots don’t have to grow too deep.
- Potting mix: A good potting mix is key for optimal growth. Look for one that’s light, fluffy, and doesn’t contain chemicals or fertilizers.
- Water: Microgreens need to be kept moist but not wet. Water them daily or as needed to keep the soil from drying out. Water as needed, about 1-2 inches per week.
- Fertilizer: A balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 can be applied once seedlings have emerged. Apply according to package directions.
Materials Required
- A container with drainage holes
- A growing medium (such as pre-fertilized soil or soilless mix)
- Onion or Leek seeds
- A spray bottle
- Scissors or gardening shears
Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Select Your Containers
The first step in growing your Onion and Leek microgreens is to select the right containers. You’ll need deep, well-draining containers at least 4 inches deep. Avoid using plastic or metal containers, as they can heat up and dry out the soil. The best type of container is a recycled food container with holes punched in the bottom for drainage. Once you’ve selected your containers, fill them with a high-quality potting mix.
Step 2: Fill Your Containers with Soil
Start with a sterile, soilless potting mix when planting your Onion and Leek microgreens. You can find this at your local garden center or online. Once you have your potting mix, fill your containers until they are about ¾ full.
Step 3: Plant the Seeds
Now that your potting mix and containers are ready, it is time to plant the seeds. For this guide, we will be using Onion and Leek microgreens. Fill your containers with potting mix and gently press down to create a flat surface. Next, sprinkle your Onion or Leek seeds evenly across the potting mix’s surface. Once you have done this, lightly press the seeds into the potting mix, so they are snug. Now it is time to water your seeds.
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Be sure to use room-temperature water to not shock the delicate seeds. Gently water the potting mix until it is evenly moistened but not soggy. Place your containers in a warm location from direct sunlight and wait for the seeds to germinate. This can take anywhere from 5-10 days, depending on the type of microgreen you are growing. Once the Onion and Leek seeds have germinated, thin out the seedlings and allow their seedlings to grow for another 7-10 days before harvesting.
Step 4: Water the Seeds
When watering your Onion and Leek microgreen seeds, use lukewarm water. You don’t want to shock delicate seedlings with cold water. Gently mist the soil with a spray bottle until it is evenly moistened. Be careful not to overwater the seeds, as this can lead to damping off disease that can kill young seedlings. Allow the soil to dry out between plant watering.
Step 5: Place the Containers in a Sunny Spot
Place your containers in a sunny spot, and keep them there until the microgreens are ready to harvest. They’ll need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, so a south-facing window is ideal. You can place your containers under grow lights if you don’t have a south-facing window.
Step 6: Wait for the Microgreens to Grow
Assuming you have followed all the previous steps correctly, it is time to wait for your microgreens to grow! This process can take anywhere from 7-14 days, depending on the type of microgreen you are growing. Monitor your progress and give them a light water misting if the soil looks dry. After about a week, you should see little sprouts poking up out of the soil. Once they reach about 2-3 inches in height, they are ready to harvest.
Growing Onion and Leek Microgreens without soil
Microgreens are a type of vegetable harvested while still in the seedling stage. They are usually grown in soil but can also be grown without soil using methods such as hydroponics or aeroponics. One benefit of growing microgreens without soil is that it eliminates the need for potting mix or other materials that can be used as a growing medium. This can save both time and money.
Additionally, soilless methods of growing microgreens often result in a higher yield per square foot than traditional methods. You’ll need a container that has drainage holes in the bottom. A plastic tray or an old Tupperware container works well for this purpose. Next, you’ll need something to act as a growing medium. Hydroton clay pellets or coco coir are both good options. Finally, you’ll need a Misto spray bottle to moisten your microgreens during germination and growth.
To get started, fill your container with your chosen growing medium. Then, sow your Onion and Leek seeds on top of the medium, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Once the seeds have been sown, mist them lightly with water from your Misto bottle. Place the container in a location where it will receive indirect sunlight. After that, harvested microgreens carefully.
In case you missed it: A Step-by-Step Guide for Growing Cauliflower Microgreens
Conclusion
Microgreens are tiny, leafy greens that are typically harvested just before they reach maturity. They have a high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a great choice for dietary supplements. Onion and Leek microgreens are a great way to add nutrition to your meals. They’re also easy to grow at home with just a few simple supplies.
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