Growing microgreens is typically a simple and efficient process; however, issues can arise while growing these tiny leafy vegetables. This article will provide you with 4 ways to troubleshoot common microgreen problems so you can make the necessary changes in order to optimize your plant’s growth.
What to do if your seeds aren’t germinating
If your microgreen seeds aren’t germinating, then take a look at the following factors to see if any of these may be the reason as to why your seeds aren’t germinating:
Seed Viability - Check the seed’s informational packet information and you will be able to find the lot date, ideal temperature for germination, and the average percentage of germination. If your seed has a germination rate below 80%, then it may be better to choose a different seed or seed source.
Seed Moisture - During the germination phase, you’ll want to make sure your seed is watered, but not overwatered or underwatered. Underwatering your seed can cause microgreen problems and is more detrimental than overwatering. Keep your soil moist during the early stages of germination to optimize growth. Seed Temperature - Make sure that the temperature is not too hot or cold because it can lead to microgreen problems such as poor germination. Refer to your seed packet to check the seed’s ideal temperature and make sure to keep the temperature around that number to encourage growth.
What to do if your seeds are growing unevenly and sparsely
If your microgreens are growing unevenly, then you may need to be more methodical in your process. Make sure that you are sowing your seeds evenly throughout the soil. Check to see if the soil is good quality and research to see if it’s a match for your specific seed. Is your tray in a place where half of the tray is getting sunlight and the other half isn’t? This can lead to uneven growth and you may want to rotate your tray to ensure each side is getting equal amounts of shade and sunlight.
What to do if your greens start to rot
If your greens start to rot, you may be overwatering them. When a seed is getting too much water and not enough sunlight, it can lead to rot. If you’re having extremely sunny weather, water your seed once in the morning and once in the evening. If a cold front has moved in, then water your crop once.
Another factor that could be causing your microgreen rot problem is the water quality. Municipal water can contain chlorine which your plants won’t like. Using filtered water is a better solution for watering microgreens. Common microgreens prefer water with a pH level of 6.5. When you keep an eye on your water’s pH levels, your microgreens will be healthier and produce stronger, increased yields.
