How to Grow Cilantro Microgreens - Full Walkthrough - On The Grow

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on how to grow cilantro microgreens, offering tips and tricks to ensure success. Cilantro is a popular herb that can sell out quickly in stores, especially during peak seasons. Growing cilantro microgreens at home is easy and rewarding, and this guide outlines the steps necessary to cultivate them effectively.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

To start growing cilantro microgreens, you will need the following supplies:

• Cilantro split seeds: These are preferred over whole seeds for better germination.
• Growing medium: Options include soil or coco coir.
• Shallow trays: 1020 trays are commonly used.
• Weights: To ensure even pressure on the seeds during germination.
• Water: For initial watering and maintenance.
• Grow light: If growing indoors, a suitable grow light is essential.

Step 2: Prepare the Growing Medium

• Fill the trays: Add your chosen growing medium to the trays, ensuring it is about 1-2 inches deep.
• Level the surface: Smooth out the surface for even seed distribution.

Step 3: Sow the Seeds

• Distribute the seeds: Evenly sprinkle the cilantro split seeds over the growing medium. Aim for a dense coverage but avoid overcrowding.
• Cover the seeds: Add a thin layer of the growing medium on top of the seeds to protect them.
• Apply weight: Place a flat object or weight on top to ensure good contact with the medium. This helps with germination.

Step 4: Watering

• Initial watering: Gently mist the surface with water to moisten the growing medium without disturbing the seeds.
• Maintain moisture: Keep the medium consistently moist but not soggy. Check daily and mist as needed.

Step 5: Provide Light

• Lighting setup: If growing indoors, position your grow light to provide 12-16 hours of light per day.
• Monitor growth: Adjust the light distance based on the height of the microgreens, ensuring they don’t become leggy.

Step 6: Harvesting

• Timing: Cilantro microgreens are typically ready to harvest in 10-14 days.
• Harvest method: Use clean scissors to cut the greens just above the growing medium.
• Storage: Store harvested microgreens in a breathable container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Growing cilantro microgreens is a straightforward process that can enhance your culinary experiences. By following these steps, you can enjoy fresh cilantro right from your home. Remember to use split seeds, provide adequate moisture and light, and harvest at the right time for the best flavor. Happy growing!