What Accessories Do You Need to Grow Microgreens? (Beginner to Commercial Guide)

Growing microgreens is one of the fastest and most rewarding ways to produce fresh, nutrient-rich greens at home or on a commercial scale. The thing is, while you can definitely grow them with just seeds and a container, having the right accessories for growing microgreens makes everything so much easier. 

For beginners, a few basic supplies for growing microgreens—like trays, a spray bottle and a suitable substrate are often enough to start harvesting within days. For commercial farms however, efficiency and consistency rely on specialized microgreens equipment, including shelving systems with lighting, precision watering tools, and professional packaging.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential accessories every grower should consider, explain why they matter and show you how to match your setup to the scale of your production. 

Table of Contents

• Growing Trays, Pots, and Hydroponic Trays
• Blackout Lids 
• Substrates for Microgreens 
• Lighting 
• Watering and Fertilizing 
• Packaging and Storage
• Shelves and Vertical Systems
• Complementary Accessories 
• Matching Accessories to Your Scale

 

 

 

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1. Growing Trays and Pots – The Foundation of Microgreens Cultivation

Every successful microgreens setup starts with the right container. At MP Seeds, you’ll find three main options: 

• growing trays,
• growing pots
• and ebb & flow hydroponic trays

each serving different needs, from home growing to commercial production.

Growing trays

When setting up your growing area, trays are one of the first essentials to consider. They come with or without holes, depending on your needs: perforated trays provide proper drainage and make bottom watering easy, while solid ones work perfectly as bases or blackout covers during germination. For growers who value durability, the Extra Strength Growing Trays are a reliable choice — exceptionally rigid, sturdy, and ideal for intensive or commercial use. Thanks to their versatility, trays remain a must-have for both beginners and experienced growers. For more details, check our guide:

📚► Top Trays for Microgreens: Your Guide to Growing Trays and Pots, FAQs, and Choosing the Best! 

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Growing pots

For growers who prefer more compact solutions, growing pots offer precision and organization. Options such as 8×8 cm or 10×10 cm pots can be neatly arranged on a tray, making it easier to manage crops in smaller batches. Their drainage holes ensure healthy root development. Low Growing Pots (10×12 cm, 4 cm deep) are perfect for displaying entire plants — ideal for market sales or direct-to-chef presentation.

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Ebb & Flow Hydroponic Trays

At a larger scale, Ebb & Flow Hydroponic Trays offer an efficient and versatile solution for professional growers. Made from durable, UV-resistant plastic, these large trays are available in three spacious formats — 60×120 cm, 90×180 cm, and 120×270 cm — designed to maximize growing area and ensure long-lasting performance even under strong light exposure.

These trays can be used in various irrigation systems:

• Ebb & Flow System – The tray is connected to a pump that regularly fills it with a nutrient solution and then drains it back. As the water leaves the tray, air replaces it in the growing medium, giving the roots the oxygen they need to grow strong. Built-in overflows protect against flooding, and a small circulating pump keeps the solution mixed and oxygenated. 
• Drip Irrigation System – A water line with drippers placed above the tray delivers nutrients directly to plants, while excess water drains through a single lead-through. This setup works perfectly with pots or containers placed on the tray.
• Manual Watering System – The trays can also be used without holes for manual watering. Simply pour water or nutrient solution directly into the tray for even, time-saving irrigation—ideal for smaller or test setups. The recommended water height is max. 1 cm for optimal hydration.
  
  

Whether used in automated or manual systems, Ebb & Flow Hydroponic Trays combine strength, flexibility, and precision—making them a reliable foundation for efficient large-scale microgreens production.

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Choosing Between Trays and Pots for Microgreens

Purpose / Use Case	Recommended Option	Why It Works Best
Selling live microgreens (with roots)	Growing Pots (8×8 cm, 10×10 cm, or 10×12 cm)	Perfect for selling fresh, living plants; easy to handle and display.
Harvesting and selling cut microgreens	Standard Growing Trays (with holes)	Ensures uniform growth and easy harvesting.
Reusable, long-term setup	Extra Strength Growing Trays or Ebb & Flow Hydroponic Trays (60×120 cm, 90×180 cm, 120×270 cm)	Durable, stable, and ideal for repeated or automated use.
Single-use or testing small batches	Growing Pots or Standard Trays	Cost-effective for trials or short growing cycles.
Blackout phase (germination stage)	Solid Trays or Pots Without Holes	Used as covers to block light and maintain humidity during the first days of growth.

 

2. Blackout Lids – Why Darkness Matters in the First Days

The first days after sowing are called the blackout phase — a short period when seeds need darkness and gentle pressure to germinate evenly. This stage helps seedlings stretch uniformly before they are exposed to light.

At MP Seeds, we recommend a simple and effective solution: instead of blackout lids, use a second tray or pot without holes of the same size. Place it directly on top of the sown tray or pot to block light and maintain humidity. 

Depending on the variety, the blackout phase usually lasts 2–4 days. Skipping it can result in weak or uneven crops, while using a cover tray or pot sets the stage for strong, healthy microgreens.

 

Extra trays and pots without holes used as blackout covers for microgreens germination. ⬇️

 

3. Substrates for Microgreens

The growing medium you choose will directly affect the health, hygiene, and productivity of your microgreens. While some hobby growers still use soil, it’s not the best option for professional setups. Soil can contain pathogens, pests, or mold spores, and it makes it difficult to maintain controlled and sanitary growing conditions. That’s why most modern growers choose soilless substrates for cleaner, safer, and more consistent results. 

Cocomats

Cocomats are made from coconut husk fibers — a renewable, biodegradable byproduct of the food industry — and offer several key advantages:

• Minimal preparation – ready to use straight out of the package, saving time compared to soil or more complex substrates.
• Superior water retention – coco fibers hold moisture evenly, ensuring seeds stay hydrated without the risk of overwatering or root rot.
• Excellent drainage and aeration – roots receive enough oxygen, reducing mold and fungal problems common in denser media.
• Clean and neutral medium – free of nutrients or additives, lowering the risk of disease; growers can easily control nutrition with a mild fertilizer.
• Adaptability – lightweight, easy to cut, and available in different sizes. At MP Seeds, cocomats can even be customized to fit unusual tray formats or ordered in bulk.
• Eco-friendly – cocomats are biodegradable, compostable, and sustainable, making them an environmentally responsible choice for farms of any scale.

📚► Discover more about cocomats here.

 

HempMats

HempMats are another excellent eco-friendly option. Made in Europe, they have a smaller environmental footprint and are often more affordable due to lower transport costs. Crafted from 100% biodegradable hemp fibers, they retain up to 10× their weight in water and provide excellent aeration for fast, even germination.

At MP Seeds, both Cocomats and HempMats are available pre-cut to fit standard trays and growing pots, saving growers time and ensuring a perfect fit right out of the box.

Thanks to these advantages, both substrates are perfect for home and commercial use—especially in half-hydroponic systems where cleanliness and consistency matter most.

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Alternative Substrates Worth Considering

• Peat substrate – once popular, but now being phased out due to environmental concerns and the depletion of natural peatlands.
• Rockwool – a standard in hydroponic farms, providing reliable water and oxygen balance for intensive production.
• Perlan – a certified cellulose fiber, biodegradable and simple to use, especially well-suited for small pots and home-scale experiments.
• Cellulose pulp – less practical, as it is bulky to store, hard to divide into trays, and cannot be recycled or composted. However, it can still be used effectively in small growing pots.
• Coco Coir – a clean and sustainable alternative to soil, offering excellent water retention, aeration, and root development. Lightweight, easy to store, and available in convenient bricks or discs.
  
  

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4. Lighting – Essential for Year-Round Growth

One of the most important factors in microgreens cultivation is light. The best source will always be natural sunlight—free, renewable, and capable of producing robust, flavorful crops. However, relying on sunlight alone is not practical for commercial production, as it’s inconsistent throughout the year. That’s why most growers turn to LED lights for microgreens, which provide a stable and predictable source of energy.

What Kind of Light Works Best?

• Full-spectrum LED lights (around 6500K) closely mimic daylight and are the safest and most reliable choice for all types of microgreens. They provide balanced light that supports healthy, uniform growth across different varieties. However, if your goal is to maximize yield or nutritional value, it’s worth exploring how specific light colors can influence growth. Learn more in our article 📚►Impact of Different LED Light Types on Microgreens Cultivation
• Both high-end grow lights and more affordable LED bars can deliver excellent results—microgreens don’t require overly complex lighting systems because of their short growth cycle. For consistency, aim for 12–16 hours of light per day, paired with a rest period of darkness to simulate natural day-night cycles.

By combining natural sunlight whenever it’s available with reliable LED setups, you create the best of both worlds—free, renewable energy from the sun and a consistent, controllable backup when daylight isn’t enough. This approach not only helps your microgreens grow strong and uniform year-round, but also gives you peace of mind that your harvest won’t be at the mercy of the seasons or cloudy weather.

 

5. Watering and Fertilizing – Keeping Microgreens Healthy Without Mold

Watering microgreens may sound simple, but it’s one of the biggest challenges for new growers. Too much water encourages mold growth, while too little leads to poor germination and weak plants. The golden rule is gentle misting in the early days, followed by bottom watering once roots establish. This means placing trays with holes inside solid trays and letting the roots draw up water from below—keeping leaves dry and safe from disease. 

Make sure the growing medium doesn’t stay constantly soaked, as roots also need access to oxygen. Let excess water drain after each watering and keep the substrate slightly moist, not wet. Also, avoid watering within 12 hours before harvest—this helps microgreens stay crisp, dry, and fresh longer.

If you want to learn more about preventing fungal issues, check our guide:

📚►Preventing Mold Growth in Microgreens.

 

When to Use Fertilizer?

Fertilizer isn’t always necessary, but it boosts growth in small-seeded crops like broccoli, basil, or amaranth, and is essential on substrates like coco mats. MP Seeds offers a two-part mineral fertilizer (Part A & Part B) designed specifically for microgreens — easy to prepare and highly effective. One cycle after the blackout phase is usually enough, though longer crops may need a second round.

⚠️ Be careful not to overfertilize. Using too much fertilizer can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves, slow down growth, and reduce overall crop quality. If you notice these symptoms, reduce fertilizer concentration or skip the next application.

Proper watering and light fertilization mean stronger roots, better color, and longer shelf life—key benefits for both home and commercial growers.

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6. Harvesting Tools – Clean and Precise Cuts

The right harvesting tools make a big difference in microgreens quality and shelf life. Scissors work well for small setups, while knives or blades are faster for commercial farms. Always keep tools sharp and disinfected to avoid damage and contamination.

Harvest when cotyledons are fully open and vibrant, but before true leaves toughen. Clean cuts mean less waste and fresher microgreens that last longer.

 

7. Packaging and Storage – How to Keep Microgreens Fresh and Attractive for Sale?

Good packaging not only protects microgreens but also makes them more attractive to customers. Options include PET containers, biodegradable packs, and absorption pads to extend freshness. At MP Seeds, we also offer transport boxes—a practical solution for delivering larger orders safely and professionally. You can choose between:

• Transport Box Small – fits 6 pots (8×8 cm or 10×10 cm), or 2 pots (10×12 cm).
• Transport Box Big – fits 12 pots (8×8 cm), 6 pots (10×10 cm), or 4 pots (10×12 cm).
  
  

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We also recommend using  Absorption Pads (80 × 120 mm) made from natural cellulose and paper—completely eco-friendly and plastic-free. Placed under the tray or inside the container, they absorb excess moisture and prevent microgreens from getting too wet or too dry during transport. They’re also fully compostable, making them ideal for zero-waste growers and sustainable packaging setups.

Proper labeling and branding further improve your product’s presentation, helping you stand out in the market. If you’re selling microgreens commercially, packaging becomes a key part of your business strategy, influencing how customers perceive quality. We’ve shared more practical tips on this topic in our article: 📚► Preparing Microgreens for Professional Sale. 

With the right packaging and freshness solutions like absorption pads, your microgreens not only last longer but also reach your customers in perfect condition.

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8. Shelves and Vertical Systems – How to Maximize Growing Space Without Expanding Your Farm?

Space is often the biggest limitation for microgreens growers. That’s where vertical farming systems come in—allowing you to multiply your growing area without adding extra square meters. By stacking trays on shelves with built-in lighting, you can easily double or triple your production.

For home growers, a compact rack with a few LED bars is usually enough to keep trays well-lit and organized. In contrast, commercial farms often rely on larger multi-tier shelving units, complete with integrated LED systems and irrigation lines. These setups not only save space but also improve workflow, making it easier to water, harvest, and manage crops efficiently. Many professional farms also integrate Ebb & Flow Hydroponic Trays, which automate irrigation and oxygen exchange, ensuring consistent growth across all levels of the rack.

Investing in vertical systems is a smart move for anyone looking to scale up. With the right shelving and hydroponic trays, you can transform even a small room into a productive microgreens farm—boosting yields without increasing your footprint.

 

9. Complementary Accessories – Which Extra Tools Make Growing Easier?

Beyond the essentials, a few additional tools can make your daily work easier, faster, and more professional:

• Digital scales – allow you to measure seed density precisely, ensuring consistent sowing and uniform growth across trays.
  
  
• Monitoring tools – pH, EC, and humidity meters help maintain stable growing conditions and spot problems early, especially in commercial setups.
  
  
• Climate control equipment – on larger farms, it’s worth using dehumidifiers, air conditioners, or humidifiers to keep ideal temperature and humidity levels. Growing plants release heat and moisture, so adjusting air conditions helps prevent mold, maintain airflow, and ensure optimal growth year-round.
  
  
• Hygiene accessories – gloves, aprons, disinfectants, and cleaning tools protect your growing area from contamination and improve crop safety.
  
  

Even small additions like these can save time, reduce losses, and improve overall crop quality.

 

10. Matching Accessories to Your Scale

Not every grower needs the same setup. The right supplies for growing microgreens depend on whether you’re experimenting at home or managing a full-scale farm. 

For beginners, a great way to start is with an all-in-one microgreens starter kit that includes everything you need to test different varieties and growing methods. Our MP SEEDS Professional Microgreens Testing Kit is designed for this purpose—it provides all the essential tools, trays, pots, mats, and fertilizer to complete two full growing cycles. The set includes:

• 10 shallow growing trays (52×31 cm) – five with pots for growing, five used as blackout covers.
  
• 80 low growing pots with holes and 40 without holes – reusable, designed for efficient germination and easy handling.
  
• 80 precut coco mats – supporting moisture balance and healthy root development.
  
• 100 g MP SEEDS Professional Fertilizer – balanced nutrition for testing results.
  
• Seed varieties – a curated selection of both small- and large-seeded microgreens such as radish, broccoli, mizuna, pea, or arugula.
  
  

This kit is ideal for anyone wanting to learn the basics, compare crops, and optimize growing conditions before scaling up to larger production.

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Once you’ve tried growing with a starter kit and gained some experience, you’ll quickly see which accessories make the biggest difference. As your confidence grows, so will your setup—what works for a home experiment may not be enough for a larger, more consistent production. To help you plan your next steps, here’s a quick overview of which tools and accessories work best at different stages of growing microgreens:

 

Scale of Growing	Recommended Accessories
Beginner (home)	Microgreens Testing Kit or small growing pots (8×8 cm or 10×10 cm), pre-cut coco mats, spray bottle, and a solid tray or pot without holes for the blackout phase.
Advanced (home)	10×20 growing trays, extra solid trays (without holes) for blackout, LED light + shelf, coco or hemp mats (pre-cut to tray size), scissors or knife, and fertilizer for nutrition
Commercial farm	Ebb & Flow Hydroponic Trays or 10×20 trays in bulk, vertical racks with LEDs, automated irrigation system, substrates (cocomats, hemp mats), fertilizer for longer crops, transport boxes, absorption pads, branded packaging, professional harvesting tools (knives, sterilizers), and climate control equipment such as dehumidifiers or air conditioners to maintain stable temperature and humidity.

 

11. Summary – The Right Accessories Pay Off

Growing microgreens is simple in theory, but the difference between average and outstanding results often comes down to the accessories you use. From growing trays and blackout lids to LED lighting, substrates, and absorption pads, every tool plays its part in improving germination, crop quality, and shelf life. Even small details—like using the right scissors for harvest or adding a reliable fertilizer—can significantly boost efficiency and reduce waste.

By matching your equipment to the scale of your production, you’ll make your daily work easier while ensuring healthier, more uniform crops.

 👉 Discover all essential tools and accessories in our Supplies for growing microgreens category and find everything you need to grow like a pro.

Grow with us! 💚

 

FAQ – Accessories for Growing Microgreens

Do I need special trays to grow microgreens?

Not necessarily—you can start with any shallow container. However, 10x20 growing trays or ebb & flow hydroponic trays are designed for microgreens and make watering, harvesting, and scaling much easier.

Which substrate is best: coco mats, soil, or something else?

Soil works, but it’s less hygienic. For professional growers, cocomats or hempmats are the most popular choice—they’re clean, sustainable, and easy to handle. Other options include rockwool, peat and perlan.

Do microgreens always need fertilizer?

Large-seeded crops like peas or sunflowers grow fine without it. Smaller seeds such as broccoli, basil, or amaranth benefit from added nutrition, especially if grown on coco mats or other inert substrates.

How can I keep harvested microgreens fresh longer?

Store them in cool conditions (2–5°C) and use breathable packaging with absorption pads to prevent excess moisture. For larger deliveries, transport boxes help keep them safe and presentable.