Do you ever feel like you need a little bit of green in your life? Maybe you don’t have a backyard to plant a full garden, or maybe you just want something small and manageable. Either way, growing microgreens in mason jars might be the perfect solution for you!
Not only are microgreens an easy and affordable way to add some fresh produce to your diet, but they’re also packed with nutrients and flavor. Plus, growing them in mason jars adds a fun DIY element to the process.
All it takes is some seeds, soil, water, and sunlight – and before you know it, you’ll have tiny greens sprouting up right on your windowsill. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of selecting seeds, preparing your jars, planting your seeds, caring for your microgreens as they grow – and finally harvesting and using them.
So let’s get started!
Selecting the Right Seeds
Before you start growing microgreens, make sure you’re using the right seeds – don’t skimp on quality! Seed storage and seed viability are important factors to consider when selecting seeds. You’ll want to ensure that your seeds are fresh and viable, so they can grow into healthy plants.
When it comes to seed varieties, there are plenty to choose from. Some popular options for microgreens include broccoli, kale, radish, and sunflower. Consider what flavors and textures you’re looking for in your microgreens before making a selection. You may also want to experiment with different varieties to find the ones that work best for you.
Seed selection is also an important consideration. Look for organic or non-GMO seeds whenever possible. You can purchase pre-packaged seed mixes specifically designed for growing microgreens or select individual seed packets based on your preferences. Remember to read the instructions carefully and follow the recommended planting guidelines.
Now that you’ve selected your seeds, it’s time to prepare your jars!
Preparing Your Jars
To start, you’ll need some clean glass containers, which can be repurposed from items like salsa or pickle jars. Did you know that upcycling just one glass jar can save enough energy to power a light bulb for almost four hours? Not only is it eco-friendly, but using mason jars for growing microgreens also adds a touch of charm and style to your home.
Before planting your seeds, it’s important to prepare your jars properly. Start by washing the jars with soap and water, making sure to remove any labels or adhesive residue. Once cleaned, you have the option of decorating your jars with paint or markers to add some personality and flair.
After decorating (or not), sterilization is key in ensuring successful growth of your microgreens. One effective technique is boiling the jars for 10 minutes in a pot of water on the stove. Another option is placing them in an oven set at 250°F for 20 minutes. Whichever method you choose, make sure they are completely dry before adding soil and seeds.
Now that your jars are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to move onto planting your seeds!
| Decorating Options | Sterilization Techniques |
|---|---|
| —————— | ———————– |
| Paint | Boiling |
| Markers | Oven |
| Stickers | Bleach solution |
| Washi tape | Hydrogen peroxide |
| Ribbon | Dishwasher |
Planting Your Seeds
So, you’re ready to start planting your microgreens in mason jars!
The first step is preparing the soil. Make sure it’s loose and airy, with good drainage.
Next, it’s time to sow the seeds. Spread them evenly on top of the soil and press them down gently so they make contact with the soil.
Remember to keep the soil moist but not too wet as you wait for your microgreens to sprout!
Soil Preparation
Firstly, you’ll want to ensure that the soil in your mason jars is prepared adequately for growing microgreens. Start by choosing the right soil type for your plants. It’s essential to pick a soil mix that is free of any harmful chemicals or toxins.
You can either purchase a pre-mixed soil specifically designed for microgreens or make your own using equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. Once you’ve selected the right soil, fill each mason jar about three-quarters of the way full with it.
Gently tap down the soil to remove any air pockets and create a level surface for planting. Next, add a layer of compost on top of the soil to provide additional nutrients for your microgreens. Finally, water the soil thoroughly until it’s evenly moist but not soaking wet.
With this preparation complete, you’re ready to move onto sowing the seeds and beginning the exciting process of watching your microgreens grow!
Sowing the Seeds
After preparing the soil, it’s time to sow the seeds for your miniature plants. The first step is to select the right type of seed for your microgreens. Some popular choices include arugula, radish, and sunflower. Once you have your seeds, it’s important to space them out evenly in the jar to ensure that each plant has enough room to grow.
When sowing the seeds, keep in mind that different types of seeds will have different germination times. For example, arugula and radish typically take around 5-7 days to germinate while sunflower can take up to 14 days. To help keep track of when your microgreens should be ready, consider creating a simple table with columns for the seed type, expected germination time, actual germination time, and notes on any challenges or successes you encountered during the process.
As you start seeing some green sprouts emerge from your jar of soil and seeds, it’s important to start thinking about how you’ll care for these tiny plants.
Caring for Your Microgreens
Now that your microgreens are growing nicely in their mason jars, it’s time to talk about caring for them.
First up: watering and fertilizing. You’ll need to make sure they get enough water without drowning them, and also provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive.
Secondly, light is crucial for healthy microgreens, so you’ll want to make sure they’re getting enough of it.
Lastly, temperature plays a big role in how well your microgreens grow, so keep an eye on the thermometer and adjust accordingly!
Watering and Fertilizing
To keep your microgreens healthy and thriving, you’ll want to make sure they get plenty of water and nutrients. The frequency of watering will depend on the type of microgreen and the environment in which it’s growing. Generally, you should water your microgreens once a day or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. However, be careful not to overwater them as this can lead to mold growth.
When it comes to fertilizing your microgreens, there are two main types of fertilizers: organic and synthetic. Organic fertilizers are made from natural sources like compost and animal waste, while synthetic fertilizers are chemically produced. Both types can be effective at providing nutrients for your microgreens, but organic fertilizers tend to be gentler on the plants and better for the environment. Whichever type you choose, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid applying too much fertilizer as this can damage or even kill your microgreens.
Now that you know how to properly water and fertilize your microgreens, let’s move on to their light and temperature requirements.
Light and Temperature Requirements
Ensuring that your microgreens receive the proper amount of light and are kept at the correct temperature is essential for their growth and overall health. Indoor gardening is an ideal solution for those who don’t have access to outdoor space or live in areas with harsh weather conditions.
One of the biggest advantages of growing microgreens indoors is that you can control the lighting conditions, which directly affect their growth rate, flavor, and texture. DIY lighting is becoming increasingly popular among indoor gardeners as it allows them to customize their setup according to their specific needs.
There are a variety of options available, including fluorescent lights, LED grow lights, and natural light from windows. When choosing a lighting system for your microgreens, consider factors such as intensity (measured in lumens), color temperature (measured in Kelvins), and duration (number of hours per day).
Additionally, it’s important to keep your microgreens at the optimal temperature range between 60-75°F (15-24°C) for best results. With proper lighting and temperature control, you can ensure that your microgreens thrive and provide you with a bountiful harvest.
As you prepare to reap the fruits of your labor by harvesting and using your microgreens, keep in mind that timing plays an important role in maximizing flavor and nutrition.
Harvesting and Using Your Microgreens
Once your microgreens have reached their desired height, it’s time to harvest them and incorporate them into your favorite dishes. To do this, simply use a pair of scissors or a sharp knife to cut the greens just above the soil line.
Be sure to rinse them thoroughly with water and gently pat dry before using in recipes. When it comes to using microgreens in recipes, the possibilities are endless. These tiny plants pack a big punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition.
Add them as a garnish to soups or salads for a pop of color and taste, or mix them into smoothies for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals. To store your microgreens for longevity, wrap them loosely in paper towels and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They should last up to 5 days this way. Alternatively, you can freeze your harvested microgreens by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use frozen microgreens within 6 months for best results.
Conclusion
Congratulations on successfully growing your own microgreens in Mason jars! With a little bit of effort, you can now enjoy fresh and nutrient-packed greens right from your kitchen.
Remember to select the right seeds for your microgreens project, and prepare your jars with care before planting. Once you’ve planted your seeds, make sure to provide them with proper care by watering them regularly and placing them in a sunny spot.
Your patience will be rewarded when you see sprouts emerge within a few days! As they grow, continue to water and monitor their progress until they are ready for harvest. Now that you have harvested your microgreens, it’s time to put them to good use!
These tiny greens pack a punch of flavor and nutrition into any dish. Whether you’re adding them to salads, sandwiches, or smoothies, the possibilities are endless. So go ahead and experiment with different recipes – who knows what kind of culinary masterpiece you’ll create next!
In conclusion, growing microgreens in Mason jars is an easy way to bring fresh produce into your home all year round. Remember the old saying: “Good things come to those who wait.”While waiting for these tiny greens to grow may require some patience on your part, the end result is well worth it. Happy gardening!