How to grow pea microgreens fast and easy?
Growing pea microgreens is an increasingly popular activity among home gardeners and commercial growers alike. Pea microgreens are packed full of nutrients, taste great in salads and sandwiches, and can be grown relatively quickly and easily in a variety of ways.
In this article we will:
- go over the tools you need to grow pea microgreens,
- explore all steps of growing pea microgreens,
- go over the nutrition benefits and usage of pea microgreens,
- answer some frequently asked questions.
By the end of this article, you'll have the information you need to start growing nutrient-rich pea microgreens at home or for profit.
1. Tools to grow pea microgreens
Seeds
Choosing the right seeds is crucial when it comes to growing healthy and delicious pea microgreens. When you are buying pea seeds, look for those labeled as "microgreen" or "sprouting" seeds. These are specifically designed for growing microgreens, and they tend to germinate more quickly and reliably than regular garden seeds. Better to choose high-quality, or organic seeds to ensure that your microgreens are free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Also, consider what kind of flavor, and shape of the peas you are looking for. Depending on what you like you can choose a more or less curly variety (Pea, Frilly), or more simply builded greens (like Pea, Salad). Try experimenting with different varieties to find the taste that you enjoy most.
Substrate
Pea microgreens don't need to be picky. No matter which substrate you choose, they'll happily thrive! From classic soil (peat substrate) to coco coir and comfy coco mat – these little guys will make themselves right at home. Don't know if to choose cocomats or cococoir? Read about ➡️pros and cons of cococoir vs cocomats in cultivating microgreens⬅️
Fertilizer
Normally pea microgreens are growing like crazy without fertilizer. But... Make sure to fertilize when planting in coconut coir or cocomats, as they won't have added any natural nutrients needed for greens growing.
Trays ( + Optionally bucket)
When it comes to choosing trays for growing pea microgreens, there are several factors to consider- depending on where you want to grow it, on which scale, and for which purpose.
First, make sure the tray is large enough to accommodate the quantity of seeds you plan to grow. A tray that is at least 10 inches by 10 inches should be sufficient for most home growers.
Secondly, look for trays that have drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating and causing mold or rot.
Thirdly, consider using trays made from plastic or, which are easy to clean. You may need a bucket if you want to follow PRO TIP 1, which is described below.
2. How to grow pea microgreens step by step?
- Soak the seeds for 8 to (maximum) 12 hours.
- Drain all water.
PRO TIP 1: Leave in the bucket for 24 hours, during that period they will dry out and sprout in good humidity. This option is especially useful if you do not have enough growing space. You can sow them 24hours later and save some space during that period.
- Now is the time for sowing! Just spill even on your growing medium and water them a little.
- Watch out for over-watering!
- You can put the trays one on another - stack up to 3 trays. Remember to restack trays everyday, so they don't heat up from sprouting seeds energy - just take the bottom tray and put it on top, repeat everyday.
- After 4-5 days of germination, depending on the temperature, humidity, and airflow when they are one inch tall just give them light.
- You can grow them under LEDs or just give them some sunlight.
- Look how big their roots can grow, you can easily on day 4 lift them and water from the bottom.
- After 10-14 days of growing on light they are ready to harvest and eat!
PRO TIP 2: When growing indoors, try to give them cooler conditions during the night period, their taste is just magnificent using that trick!
PRO TIP 3: Check out how they grow under different night and day periods.
Pea microgreens photo ⬇️
3. Pea microgreens health benefits and how to use it?
Nutrition benefits:
Pea microgreens are a fantastic addition to a healthy diet due to their numerous health benefits. These tiny sprouts are packed with essential nutrients that can provide a wide range of benefits to the body.
One of the most significant benefits of pea microgreens is their high fiber and protein content. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals looking to boost their energy levels and improve overall health. In addition, they are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, which are all essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and supporting healthy skin and vision.
The antioxidants found in pea microgreens have been linked to reducing inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial in preventing chronic diseases such as cancer. Additionally, their iron content can help fight off fatigue and anemia, while their potassium content can help regulate blood pressure.
Another benefit of pea microgreens is their prebiotic content, which encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, aiding digestion. They also contain minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc that can help to keep bones strong and healthy.
How to eat pea microgreens:
Pea microgreens are versatile and can be added to a variety of dishes such as:
- salads,
- sandwiches,
- stir-fries, and
- smoothies.
To maximize their nutritional benefits, it is best to eat them fresh or lightly steamed, as cooking them for too long may reduce their nutrient content. We love to use it as a substitute for pak choi in ramen soup!
In conclusion, pea microgreens are a fantastic addition to a healthy diet due to their numerous health benefits. They are not only delicious but also a great source of essential nutrients that can support good health and well-being. Incorporating them into your diet can help to boost your energy levels, improve digestion, and support healthy immune function.
4. FAQ about pea microgreens
Should I soak the pea seeds before seeding?
Yes- definitely! Pea and other greens which have big seeds need to be soaked. Pea seeds should be soaked for 8 to 12 hours.
When pea microgreens are ready to harvest?
Pea microgreens need 4-5 days for blackout and 10-14 days for the growing period. It depends on the variety and your taste when to cut it but it starts from 15 cm high above the soil level.
Will pea microgreens grow without soil?
Yes! You can use coconut mats or coconut coir to grow pea microgreens. But then remember to add some fertilizer to the first watering!
Will pea microgreens regrow after cutting?
It is possible! But... You need to cut them a little bit above the microgreen embrio visible on the down part of the stem. Then take care about the good hydration and airing (to prevent the mold). Good idea is to add a little bit of fertilizer as well.
How do pea microgreens taste?
Pea shoots has a rather sweet and grassy taste. Their texture is crunchy.
Summary
12 hours of seeds soaking, 4-5 days of blackout, and 10-14 days under the light. Growing pea microgreens can be tricky business (not only if you are a beginner)- but you have some pro advices that could help! All in all the best way to figure out which works better is by giving yourself space to give various methods a try.
Keep growing,
Caroline
Any questions?
Contact me via email: karolina@mpseeds.eu
