Microgreens have taken the gardening and culinary world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. Packed with nutrients, easy to grow, and incredibly versatile, microgreens are a fantastic addition to any kitchen or garden. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow broccoli microgreens without the mess of soil, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, using the innovative and eco-friendly Vegbed grow mats as your growing medium.
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Why Broccoli Microgreens?
Broccoli microgreens are one of the most nutrient-dense options available. These tiny greens are loaded with vitamins C, A, and K, and are known for their high levels of sulforaphane, a compound linked to numerous health benefits. They’re also quick to grow, making them a fantastic choice for those looking for a fresh, nutrient-packed harvest in just a short time.
While broccoli is an excellent choice, there’s a wide variety of seeds you can grow as microgreens, such as sunflower, radish, and pea shoots, each offering its unique flavor and nutritional benefits.
The method you’ll learn in this guide works for any seed suitable for growing microgreens, making it versatile for all your favorites.
What You’ll Need
- A grow mat (we recommend Vegbed mats for their sustainability, mess-free design, and excellent water retention)
- Broccoli seeds (specially selected for microgreens)
- Two dark plastic trays
- Scissors
- A spray bottle filled with filtered water
Why Choose Vegbed Grow Mats?🌱
Vegbed Grow Mats are our top choice thanks to their numerous advantages that make growing vibrant and healthy microgreens a breeze.
Crafted from sustainable bamboo fibers, these mats are designed for quick and efficient microgreen growth, offering a clean, mess-free alternative to soil.
Their excellent water retention ensures consistent hydration, creating the perfect conditions for microgreens to thrive. Plus, they’re 100% biodegradable and naturally compost after use, making them both effective and environmentally friendly—ideal for small spaces and indoor gardening.
If you’re excited to give them a try, you can purchase Vegbed grow mats here and enjoy an exclusive 10% discount! Use code DINASGARDEN at checkout.
Prepare the Trays
Use two dark plastic trays, like the ones commonly used for packaging vegetables in grocery stores. One will serve as the planting tray, and the other as a drip tray. For the planting tray, create a few small holes in the bottom using a sharp tool. These holes allow water to flow through and keep the grow mat evenly moist while ensuring proper airflow to prevent mold.
Prepare the grow mat
Cut the grow mat to fit the bottom of your planting tray, making sure it fits neatly along the edges. Flatten any wrinkles or folds for a smooth and even base. This helps the seeds make good contact with the mat, which is essential for germination.
Once positioned, mist the mat lightly with filtered water using a spray bottle until it is evenly damp but not soaking. Check for any dry spots and reapply water if necessary, but avoid over-saturating to prevent mold.
Sow the Seeds
Sprinkle broccoli seeds evenly across the damp grow mat. Aim for an even layer to promote uniform growth.
Avoid overcrowding the seeds, as this can lead to poor airflow and increase the risk of mold.
Once the seeds are spread, mist them lightly with water to kickstart the germination process.
Cover the Tray
Place a second dark tray on top of the seeds to block out light. Darkness mimics natural soil conditions and encourages the seeds to germinate.
Add a light weight on top of the tray to ensure good seed-to-mat contact.
Keep the tray in a well-ventilated area at a moderate temperature (around 65-75°F or 18-24°C).
Water from the Bottom
After the initial misting, switch to bottom watering. Fill the drip tray with filtered water and place the growing tray inside for about a minute daily, allowing the grow mat to absorb water efficiently.
This allows the grow mat to soak up water from below, keeping the roots hydrated without wetting the microgreens themselves, which helps prevent mold and keeps the plants healthy.
Expose to Light
After 3-4 days, remove the top tray and expose the sprouts to light. Indirect sunlight works well, or you can use a grow light for about 8-10 hours a day.
The microgreens will transition from yellow to vibrant green as they photosynthesize.
Harvest Your Microgreens
Within 7-14 days, your broccoli microgreens will reach about 2-3 inches in height and will be ready for harvest.
Use clean scissors to cut them just above the grow mat.
Rinse gently if needed, and enjoy them fresh in salads, sandwiches, or smoothies. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips for Success
- Always use filtered water to avoid introducing harmful chemicals to your microgreens.
- Ensure good airflow around your trays to prevent mold.
- Sanitize your trays thoroughly before each growing cycle to maintain a clean environment and reduce the risk of contamination.
- If using a grow light, keep it at an appropriate distance to avoid overheating the plants.
- Experiment with different seeds to find your favorite microgreens!
FAQs
How often should I water my microgreens?
Water them daily using the bottom-watering method to keep the grow mat consistently moist without over-saturating the seeds or roots.
Can I reuse VegBed Grow Mats?
VegBed grow mats are designed to be biodegradable and are best used for a single growing cycle to ensure optimal cleanliness and growth.
Do I need a grow light to grow microgreens?
While indirect sunlight works well, a grow light can provide consistent and controlled lighting, especially in darker indoor spaces.
How do I know when my microgreens are ready to harvest?
Your microgreens are ready to harvest when they reach about 2-3 inches in height, typically within 7-14 days.
Can I grow microgreens without a grow mat or soil?
Yes, it’s possible to grow microgreens without a grow mat or soil by using alternative methods like hydroponics. If you’re curious about growing microgreens in a completely soil-free way, check out our easy guide on growing nutrient-rich microgreens without soil.
