Microgreens are the young seedlings of edible vegetables and herbs, harvested after the cotyledon leaves have fully developed but often before the first true leaves appear. These young plants offer highly concentrated nutritional value, often containing significantly higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. Lentil microgreens are a popular choice for home growers due to their mild, earthy flavor and quick turnaround time. Growing these nutrient-dense greens requires minimal space and basic equipment, making it an accessible project for a continuous supply of fresh produce.
Essential Supplies and Seed Preparation
Growing lentil microgreens requires specific supplies and proper seed preparation. You need shallow growing trays, ideally with drainage holes, and a clean growing medium like coco coir or a fine soil blend. Only food-grade or sprouting-specific lentil seeds should be used to ensure they are free from chemical treatments.
Lentil seeds benefit significantly from a pre-soak period, which initiates germination by saturating the seed coat. The recommended soaking time ranges from 8 to 12 hours in cool water, though longer soaks up to 48 hours can maximize germination rates. After soaking, the seeds must be thoroughly drained and rinsed to remove residual compounds and prevent mold. Do not leave seeds sitting in standing water, as this leads to anaerobic conditions and microbial growth.
Sowing and the Dark Germination Phase
Prepare the growing medium by moistening it thoroughly until saturated but not waterlogged. Level the medium flat in the tray, creating an even surface. Sow the lentil seeds densely across the surface, covering it completely without excessive overlap. Overcrowding restricts airflow and encourages fungal issues.
After sowing, gently mist the seeds to settle them and ensure good seed-to-soil contact. The tray then enters the “blackout” or dark germination phase, achieved by covering the tray completely with an opaque lid or another tray. This darkness, lasting two to four days, encourages seedlings to stretch uniformly as they search for light, resulting in longer, straighter stems. The blackout phase concludes when the growing shoots push against the cover, indicating the roots have anchored and the plants are ready for photosynthesis.
Transition to Light and Harvesting Techniques
The completion of the blackout period requires transitioning the trays into a brightly lit environment. Microgreens need a light source for several hours daily, provided by a sunny windowsill or dedicated grow lights positioned close to the plants. During this growth phase, which lasts about four to six days, the pale yellow seedlings rapidly produce chlorophyll and turn a vibrant green.
Watering
The most effective watering technique is bottom watering, where water is added to a tray beneath the growing tray. This allows the medium to wick up moisture from below. This method is preferred because it keeps the leaves and stems dry, preventing mold and damping-off disease. Avoid overwatering; only water when the medium feels noticeably lighter, indicating moisture absorption.
Harvesting
Lentil microgreens are ready for harvest about seven to ten days after sowing, once the cotyledons are fully expanded. Harvesting at this stage ensures the best flavor and nutritional density. Waiting too long can cause the stems to become woody and the texture to become fibrous. Harvest the greens using sharp scissors or a knife, cutting the stems cleanly just above the soil line. Store harvested microgreens unwashed in a dry, airtight container in the refrigerator for several days.