Growing Manual for Microgreens

Introduction

Microgreens are young, tender plants that are harvested at an early stage and are packed with flavor and nutrients. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for cultivating microgreens using coir products, which offer a clean and efficient growing medium.

Advantages of Coir Products

• Excellent Drainage: Coir products provide efficient drainage, preventing waterlogged roots and promoting healthy microgreen growth.
• Aeration: The coir structure encourages ample air circulation around the roots, supporting vigorous growth.
• Sustainability: Coir is a renewable and eco-friendly resource, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
• pH Neutral: Coir typically has a neutral pH, reducing the need for pH adjustments.
• Low Salinity: Coir products should be low in salts, minimising the risk of harming delicate microgreens.

Understanding Coir Properties

1. Air Porosity

   Air porosity refers to the proportion of pore space in a growing medium. Coir products provide excellent air porosity, ensuring that microgreen roots have access to essential oxygen. This supports healthy root development and prevents issues like root rot.

2. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)

   CEC measures the soil’s ability to retain and exchange cations (positively charged ions) like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Coir typically has a lower CEC compared to some soil types, but it can still retain and release essential nutrients, especially potassium.

3. Water Retaining Capacity

   Coir products have a balanced water-holding capacity, maintaining consistent moisture levels for the microgreens. They can retain moisture without becoming waterlogged, reducing the risk of overwatering and root-related issues.

4. pH and EC

   • pH: Coir usually has a neutral pH of around 5.5 to 6.5, which is suitable for most microgreen varieties and allows for optimal nutrient uptake.
   • EC (Electrical Conductivity): Coir typically has a low EC, indicating low levels of soluble salts. This is important for microgreens, as high salt levels can be detrimental to their growth.

5. Salinity

   Ensure that the coir products you use are low in salinity, as high salt levels can be harmful to microgreens. Proper processing and washing should remove excess salts.

Materials and Equipment Needed

• Coir Products (Blocks, Mats, or Pellets)
• Microgreen Seeds
• Seedling Trays or Containers
• Watering Can or Spray Bottle
• pH Testing Kit and EC Meter (optional)
• Grow Lights (if growing indoors)
• Fan (optional, for air circulation)
• Labels or Markers

Steps for Growing Microgreens in Coir Products

1. Preparing Coir Products

   Rehydrate Coir: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly rehydrate coir products.
   Check pH and EC (if necessary): Test the pH and EC levels of the rehydrated coir. Adjust if needed using appropriate amendments.

2. Choosing Microgreen Varieties

   Select microgreen varieties that suit your preferences and growing conditions. Common choices include arugula, basil, kale, and radish, among others.

3. Sowing Microgreens

   • Fill Containers: Fill seedling trays or containers with the rehydrated coir.
   • Sow Seeds: Scatter microgreen seeds evenly over the coir surface. Lightly press them into the coir to ensure good seed-to-medium contact.
   • Cover and Water: Cover the seeds with a thin layer of coir or vermiculite, mist the surface with water, and gently press down. Keep the coir consistently moist but not waterlogged.
   • Provide Light: Place the trays under grow lights or in a sunny location. Microgreens need adequate light for healthy growth.

4. Providing Proper Care

   • Watering: Maintain consistent moisture by misting or using a gentle watering can. Ensure the coir remains consistently moist throughout the growth cycle.
   • Ventilation: If growing indoors, use a fan to provide gentle air circulation around the microgreens. This helps prevent mould and promotes sturdy growth.
   • Light: Continue providing sufficient light as the microgreens grow. Adjust the light source’s height to prevent stretching.

Harvesting and Maintenance

Microgreens are typically ready for harvest within 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the variety. Harvest when they have reached the desired size, usually when the first true leaves appear. Use scissors to cut them just above the coir surface.
Maintain a clean growing environment by removing any spent microgreen trays and sanitising containers between plantings.

Conclusion

Growing microgreens in coir products offers a clean and efficient method for cultivating these flavorful and nutritious greens. With proper care and attention to coir properties, you can enjoy a constant supply of fresh microgreens for your culinary creations.