Should you soak your microgreen seeds before sowing? That really depends on what variety of seed you are planting.
While pre-soaking seeds is not a requirement, there are some varieties of microgreen seeds that will grow easier when the outer shell surrounding the seed is softened with pre-soaking. When seeds are pre-soaked, there is a quicker germination time and more even growth of stems and first leaves.
Tiny seeds like that of Red Garnet or Amaranth, Broccoli, Mustard, and Kale generally don't require soaking. Also, seeds that turn mucilaginous, such as Basil, should never be soaked. This is because when in contact with water, they will swell up into gelatinous pearls which tend to stick together like clumps if sowed too closely together.
Below is a table that lists the seeds we offer and if they require pre-soaking.
| Seed Type | Soaking Requirement | Soaking Period |
| Alfalfa Seeds | No | NA |
| Amaranth Red Seeds | No | NA |
| Arugula or Rocket Seeds | No | NA |
| Broccoli Rabe Seeds | No | NA |
| Cabbage Red Seeds | No | NA |
| Cilantro or Coriander Seeds | Yes | Overnight |
| Daikon Radish Seeds | No | NA |
| Fenugreek Seeds | Yes | Min 4 hours or overnight |
| Basil seeds | No | NA |
| Green Pea Seeds | Yes | Overnight |
| Kale Seeds | No | NA |
| Kohl Rabi Seeds | No | NA |
| Mustard Seeds | No | NA |
| Pak Choi | No | NA |
| Speckled Pea Seeds | Yes | Overnight |
| Spinach Seeds | Yes | 4-5 hours |
| Sunflower Seeds | Yes | Overnight |
| Swiss Chard or Silver Beet Seeds | Yes | 4-5 hours |
| Yellow Pea Seeds | Yes | Overnight |
What about wheat grass? Soak?
French chervil are small seeds, so they don’t require soaking.
What about French chervil?