Positive Guide to Growing Broccoli Microgreens on Jute Mats

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Positive Guide to Growing Broccoli Microgreens on Jute Mats

broccoli microgreens
broccoli microgreens

1. Materials Needed

  • Broccoli Seeds: Visit True Leaf Market (True Leaf Market) for high-quality, untreated seeds suitable for microgreens.
  • Jute Fiber Grow Mats: Also available at (True Leaf Market), these serve as your hydroponic growing medium.
  • Trays: Also available at (True Leaf Market) Shallow growing trays, 10 inches by 20 inches in size.
  • Spray Bottle: Available at (Amazon) For misting seeds and greens.
  • pH Test Kit: Available at (Amazon) To test and adjust water pH, available at gardening stores or online.
  • PH Up and Down: Available at (Amazon) If your water has to much PH use PH down and if your water have to little PH use PH up.

2. Preparation

  • Jute Mats: Soak the jute mats in water until fully saturated and place them in your trays.
  • Water pH: Ensure your water is around 6.0 to 6.5 using a pH test kit.

3. Seed Soaking and Quantity

  • Soak the Seeds: Soak the broccoli seeds in water for 4-6 hours before sowing.
  • Seed Quantity: Use about 1 to 2 ounces (28 to 56 grams) of seeds for a 10 inch by 20 inch tray.

4. Sowing Seeds

  • Even Distribution: Spread the soaked and drained seeds evenly across the wet jute mat.
  • Misting: Gently mist the seeds with your spray bottle.

5. Germination

  • Dark Phase: Create a blackout phase for 2-3 days to aid germination.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Keep the environment around 18-22°C (64-72°F) with high humidity.

6. Growing Phase

  • Light Exposure: After germination, expose the microgreens to indirect sunlight or a grow light.
  • Watering: Mist the microgreens to keep the mat moist.

7. Harvesting

  • Timing: Harvest the microgreens when they are about 2-3 inches tall, typically in 7-14 days.
  • Method: Cut just above the mat level.

8. Post-Harvest

  • Rinsing: Rinse the harvested microgreens gently.
  • Storage: Dry them before refrigerating.

9. Cleaning and Reusing Materials

  • Jute Mats: Generally single-use and biodegradable.
  • Trays: Clean and sterilize for future use.

10. Tips and Troubleshooting

  • Mold Prevention: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
  • Grow Lights: Provide 12-16 hours of light per day if using artificial lights.
  • Crop Rotation: Start a new batch every few days for continuous supply.

For all your microgreen growing needs, including seeds and hydroponic supplies, True Leaf Market is a great resource. Their website offers a wide range of products specifically tailored for microgreen cultivation. Happy growing!