Broccoli Microgreens pack a serious punch of nutritional benefits and are one of our most popular seeds. Most of us grow them using a soil-based medium. However, growing them on coco mats is a no-mess, fuss-free alternative and everyone should try it!
Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can grow your Broccoli Microgreens on coco mats (or coconut coir mats) and make sure you check out the short video below after. This method applies to most other small seeds like Bak Choy, Kale, Mustard, Cabbage, Radish, Kohlrabi, Arugula.
Materials you will need:
1. Coco mat or coconut coir mat (the size will depend on the quantity you wish to grow)
2. Good, organic Broccoli Microgreens seeds
3. Shallow tray (a recycled tray is always a good option)
4. Spray bottel for watering
5. A second similar size tray to act as a dome
6. Water
7. Light source (natural or grow lights)
8. Ventilation
Step 1: Prepare your coco mat
Start by hydrating your coco mat. Place your mat in a tray with water and soak for a minute or two. Once the mat is thoroughly moist, remove and place in a dry tray. You're now ready for the next step.
Step 2: Sowing your seeds
Spread a thin layer of broccoli microgreens seeds on the moistened coco mat. Make sure the seeds are evenly distributed to ensure uniform growth.
Step 3: Water your seeds
Spray a generous amount of water on your seeds to moisten them. Remember, you want them kept moist for the entire germination duration which could be 2-3 days. In Singapore, if it gets too hot, your mat will dry quickly.
Step 4: Press seeds onto coco mat
Use the second tray of the same size (it must be a dark tray) and use the bottom of the tray to cover your seeds, pressing the tray down. Add weight onto the top tray to ensure good seed-to-mat contact, which aids in germination.
Set aside for 2-3 days in an area with good airflow or ventilation to allow seeds to germinate.
Step 5: Germination
By day 3, your seeds would have germinated. Uncover the top tray and give your germinated seeds a good spray of water. Flip the top tray over and keep your germinated seeds covered for another 5-8 hours. This will ensure the stems straighten and grow upright. Uncover after this period and place in an area with indirect sunlight (if you are growing in natural light).
Step 6: Monitor Grow
Keep an eye on your microgreens over the next 4-5 days, spraying at least once a day. Once they reach 1-2 inches and produce the full 2 cotyledons (the first 2 leaves), they are ready to be harvested.
Step 7: Harvesting
Use a pair of clean scissors to snip your broccoli microgreens just above the coco mat. Rinse and pat dry on a paper towel. Enjoy with your salad, sandwich or as a garnish!