Basil microgreens are easier to grow and maintain. Growing full sized basil plants is quite a heavy task. Instead go with the microgreen version of it.
If you are in search of guidance to grow basil microgreens, welcome!! You are in the right space.
Basil Microgreens:
Basil microgreens are generally easier to grow and maintain. They consist of a variety of nutrients and have a pleasant fragrance and flavor.
There are varieties of basil microgreens:
- Anise Basil
- Cinnamon Basil
- Dark opal Basil
- Genovese Basil
- Red Rubin Basil
- Thai basil
Requirements:
Gather all the supplies that are required to grow the microgreens.
Basil seeds
Container
Growing medium
Water
Basil Seeds:
You can purchase high quality seeds or you can get on your own by growing full sized basil plants.
Make sure that the tray or the container has drain holes. An extra tray without holes can be used to store water.
Growing medium:
Grow mats or soil can be used as grow media.
Growing basil microgreens on a GroMat:
Grow mats retain good amount of water and enhances the growth rate of the microgreens
Step 1: Lay the grow mat in the container. Make sure that the fiber side is facing up.
Step 2: Basil seeds should be distributed evenly using a shaker on the growing mat.
Step 3: Water the grow mat sufficiently, but do not over water.
Step 4: Cover the tray to initiate the germination process. Another tray or any lid can be used to cover.
Step 5: Once the seeds are germinated, provide them enough light, either sunlight or you can use grow lights.
Step 6: Make sure to water the microgreens regularly.
Growing basil microgreens in SOIL
Step 1: Pour the soil in the container but make sure there is enough space between the surface of the soil and the top of the container.
Step 2: Water the soil but do not over water.
Step 3: Evenly distribute the seeds over the soil using a shaker.
Step 4: Now cover up the seeds by a slender layer of soil.
Step 5: Add some water and cover the container with a lid for the germination process.
Step 6: After 3 to 4 days, expose them to the sunlight or grow lights.
Step 7: Water your microgreens regularly.
How to Harvest Basil Microgreens?
Once the microgreens are more than 2” tall, they are ready to be harvested. Make use of scissors or knives to trim the microgreens. Cut them from slightly above the soil surface.
How to Store Basil Microgreens?
Basil microgreens can be folded in a paper towel or a plastic bag and placed in the refrigerator.
Chances of Regrowth post harvest:
There is a possibility of regrowth if a good portion stem is left behind but they take longer time to grow as compared to the original ones.
Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory activity
Basil microgreens contain eugenol, linalool and citronellol which calms down the inflammation. They are generally prescribed for controlling body aches.
Antioxidants:
Basil microgreens are rich in antioxidants which prevents our cells from oxidative damage and maintains our general health.
Vitamins and nutrients:
Vitamins A,C ank K are present in abundance. In addition, basil microgreens also contain calcium, magnesium, iron, omega-3-fatty acids which helps in maintaining good health and also in strengthening of the bones.
Hormonal Balance:
Basil microgreens contain magnesium, protein, iron, zinc which helps in regulating hormonal levels in the body.
Conclusion:
We hope you find this article useful and try your hands out with growing your own basil microgreens. Check out our other blogs for more information about the microgreens.
