Microgreens originated in Eastern Europe. It has been a popular addition to many eateries and cooking techniques. The seeds are small, white, red or purple in color and can be eaten like spinach. It is a rare type of vegetable with its bitter taste. This small variety was introduced to the United States in the 1990s.
The planting microgreens requires two things; the seed and soil. For planting microgreens it is best to find an area that is well drained and has rich soil. For those who live in an area with a cold climate microgreens should be planted at least six feet away from other plants. For those who live in a hot climate, it is recommended to plant the seeds just before the first freeze. There is no way to tell if the seeds will germinate in the absence of frost.
Microgreen planting can be a successful process if it is done properly. Before starting microgreen growing, find out if the landowner has a permit to do it. If not, check with local government agencies to see if they require a permit. You also want to find out if the zoning rules for the property require planting within a certain area.
The microgreens should be planted according to the directions provided by the manufacturer. Plant seeds approximately two to four inches deep. Plant three to five leaves on each plant. They should be tilted towards the sun so that the microgreens can get most of the sunlight.
The microgreens need constant moisture. The mulch should be used to keep soil damp. After planting microgreens it is wise to water them daily. When planting do not over water. Moisture is essential for new plants. Over watering can cause the seeds to germinate prematurely.
The microgreens do not have hard stems. They are considered a soft plant to cultivate because of their tendency to grow easily. A hand or armful of the plants can be planted in one row. They will usually root in three to five weeks.
When the microgreens begin to bloom their vivid green color will start to change. The leaves will turn purple and the flowers will become bluish-green. Flowers will be small and white. As the plant blooms it will cover the entire plant with its beautiful purple blooms.
The micro greens can be harvested by cutting the plant roughly in half. The stems and leaves can then be dried. The dried plants can then be used as a herb garden. There is a multitude of recipes available for microgreens.
The Zagreb plant has a long history in Eastern Europe. It is native to the region but was introduced to the United States by Sir Richard Branson, an American millionaire. Branson was so impressed with the plant he wanted to introduce it to his home country. It quickly became a great hit in the U.S. and began to be shipped all over the world.
The plant is very hardy. In fact it is one of the few annuals that is resistant to some of the diseases that can destroy other plants. And it does well in low temperatures.
When planting microgreens ensure that the area is free of weeds. Remove grass and weeds around the perimeter of the planting site. After the grass has been completely removed to make a deep hole in the ground about six inches deep. The microgreens should be planted directly into the hole using wide spreading roots. It is important to place them securely into the hole and make sure they are firmly planted.
Microgreens need full sun to thrive. They will do best in a warm location but are tolerant of shade. They will also do better in acidic soil but if possible add a neutral fertilizer to increase the acidity level.
As long as you are diligent in your maintenance the microgreens should do quite well in your garden. Be sure to harvest the leaves as the first sign of dying will begin to appear. It is important not to harvest the plant until all of the autumn foliage is gone. Once the leaves on the top of the plant have fallen off they will not grow again.