Have you used lavender microgreens?
They’re not only pretty with their lovely purple color and sweet scent but they are also packed with a ton of health benefits!
These little guys are filled with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and keep you feeling great.
The best part is, you don’t need a big garden to grow them – just a windowsill or a small space will do!
Growing your own lavender microgreens is not only easy, but it’s also a great way to add a burst of freshness and nutrition to your meals.
Let’s find out more about this enchanting plant and how to go about planting it at home!
Lavender Microgreens Profile
Lavender microgreens, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, are young, tender sprouts of the lavender plant.
These delicate greens possess a unique and captivating flavor profile that is both floral and slightly herbaceous. Their vibrant purple leaves and petite size add an elegant touch to any dish. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, lavender microgreens offer a plethora of health benefits.
They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential minerals like calcium and potassium. These nutrients contribute to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
Whether used as a garnish, infused into oils, or incorporated into salads and desserts, lavender microgreens provide a delightful and nutritious addition to culinary creations.
Tools to Grow Your Microgreens
Seeds: Obtain high-quality lavender microgreen seeds from a trusted supplier or nursery.
Growing Tray: Choose a shallow tray or container with drainage holes to hold the soil and allow excess water to escape.
Growing Medium: Opt for a sterile and lightweight medium like coconut coir, vermiculite, or a seed-starting mix. This provides the necessary nutrients and promotes healthy root development.
Watering Can or Spray Bottle: Use a watering can or spray bottle to moisten the growing medium evenly without overwatering the microgreens.
Light Source: Lavender microgreens require ample light to grow. Place them near a sunny windowsill or use artificial grow lights to provide sufficient illumination.
Plastic Wrap or Dome: Covering the tray with plastic wrap or using a dome helps create a humid environment for the seeds to germinate.
Ventilation: Once the seeds have sprouted, it’s crucial to provide proper air circulation to prevent mold or disease. A small fan or regular gentle airflow can help achieve this.
Scissors or Harvesting Tool: When the lavender microgreens reach the desired height of 1-2 inches, use scissors or a harvesting tool to snip them just above the soil line for consumption.
How to Grow Microgreens
Soaking Seeds
For optimal results in growing lavender microgreens, employing the technique of seed soaking can greatly enhance your success rate.
Begin by carefully placing your lavender microgreen seeds in a bowl and covering them with room-temperature water. Allow the seeds to soak for a period of 4-6 hours or even overnight. This process helps to soften the seed coat, facilitating quicker and more consistent germination.
Once the soaking time is complete, drain the water and prepare to sow the seeds in their growing medium. By taking this extra step, you’re setting the stage for a flourishing lavender microgreen garden that will delight both your senses and your taste buds.
Planting The Seeds
Once you have soaked your lavender microgreen seeds and they are ready for planting, it’s time to create the optimal environment for their development.
Select a shallow tray or container with drainage holes to provide proper water drainage. This will prevent waterlogging, which can hinder seedling growth. Fill the tray with a high-quality, well-draining growing medium. A recommended option is a seed-starting mix or a combination of coco coir and vermiculite.
Evenly spread the soaked lavender microgreen seeds over the surface of the growing medium. Take care not to overcrowd the seeds, as this can lead to competition for resources and hinder growth. A spacing of about 1/4 inch between each seed is generally sufficient.
Once the seeds are distributed, gently press them into the growing medium. This ensures good seed-to-soil contact, which is essential for germination. Avoid burying the seeds too deep, as lavender microgreens require access to light for successful growth. A light dusting of soil or vermiculite over the seeds can provide adequate coverage without obstructing their access to light.
To create an ideal germination environment, mist the tray with water. This helps to settle the seeds into the growing medium and maintain moisture levels necessary for germination. However, be cautious not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to damping-off or other fungal issues.
Cover the tray with a plastic wrap or a humidity dome to create a mini greenhouse effect. This helps to retain moisture and create a humid atmosphere that promotes seed germination. Place the tray in a warm location, ideally around 70-75°F (21-24°C).
As the lavender microgreen seeds germinate and sprouts emerge, remove the plastic wrap or dome to allow for proper air circulation. Adequate airflow helps prevent the development of mold or fungal diseases and encourages sturdy plant growth.
Growing Process
Provide the lavender microgreens with ample light. Place them near a sunny window or use artificial grow lights to ensure they receive 12-16 hours of light per day. Adjust the position of the tray or lights as needed to maintain a distance of 4-6 inches between the light source and the microgreens.
Monitor the moisture levels in the growing medium and water as necessary to keep it slightly moist. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot or other issues. A gentle misting or bottom watering method can help maintain the appropriate moisture balance.
Harvesting the Greens
To ensure a successful harvest, follow these steps.
Firstly, wait until the lavender microgreens reach a height of 1-2 inches with their first true leaves.
Prepare a clean pair of sharp scissors or a specialized harvesting tool, ensuring they are sanitized to maintain hygiene. With a precise and even cut, snip the lavender microgreens just above the soil line.
Remember to harvest in portions, allowing the remaining microgreens to continue growing undisturbed.
After harvesting, gently rinse the greens under cool running water to remove any impurities, and pat them dry using a paper towel or a salad spinner.
Enjoy the freshly harvested lavender microgreens immediately to savor their optimal flavor and nutritional benefits.
Regularly monitor the growth of the remaining plants and repeat the harvesting process as needed.
By following these expert guidelines, you can revel in the pleasure of homegrown lavender microgreens and appreciate their unique taste and aroma.
Want to Store Them?
Rinse and dry: After harvesting, gently rinse the lavender microgreens under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry using a clean paper towel or a salad spinner. Excess moisture can lead to spoilage, so ensure they are adequately dried. You can use a dehydrator to store them for longer periods.
Storage container: Choose a breathable container or a ziplock bag for storing your lavender microgreens. It should allow for air circulation while protecting them from drying out. Avoid using airtight containers as they can promote moisture buildup and accelerate spoilage.
Storage temperature: Place the container with the lavender microgreens in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storage is around 40°F (4°C). Maintaining a cool temperature helps prolong their shelf life and retain their freshness.
Shelf life: Lavender microgreens can typically stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, for the best flavor and nutritional value, it is recommended to consume them as soon as possible after harvesting.
Check for freshness: Before using stored lavender microgreens, inspect them for any signs of spoilage, such as wilting, discoloration, or an unpleasant odor. If you notice any of these indications, it is best to discard them.
Culinary applications: Incorporate your stored lavender microgreens into various culinary creations, such as salads, sandwiches, smoothies, or as a garnish for soups and desserts. Their delicate flavor and vibrant appearance can add a unique touch to your dishes.
Other Microgreens to Grow at Home
- Alfalfa
- Pak Choi
- Mungbean
- Oregano
- Lentil
- Onion
- Fava Bean
- Rosemary
- Leek
- Collard
- Dandelion
- Garlic Chive
Lavender Microgreens FAQ
Is lavender considered a microgreen?
Lavender can indeed be grown and enjoyed as a microgreen. Its delicate purple leaves and captivating fragrance make it a unique and beautiful addition to your microgreen garden. Lavender microgreens offer not only visual appeal but also a burst of flavor and a variety of health benefits.
Which microgreens are known to be more challenging to grow?
The difficulty of growing microgreens can vary depending on personal experience and growing conditions. Some microgreens, such as cilantro and chervil, may pose more challenges due to their specific temperature and light requirements. However, with patience, proper care, and the right growing conditions, a wide variety of microgreens can be successfully cultivated.
Which microgreen is considered the healthiest?
Broccoli microgreens are often regarded as one of the healthiest microgreens. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutrient-dense choice. Broccoli microgreens are particularly known for their cancer-fighting properties and are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K.
Which microgreen grows the fastest?
When it comes to rapid growth, radish microgreens take the lead. They are known for their quick development and can often be harvested within 7 to 10 days. Radish microgreens not only provide a spicy kick to dishes but also offer a range of vitamins and minerals.
Are Lavender Microgreens Worth It?
It’s time to grow your greens! Not only do they add a touch of elegance and fragrance to your space, but they also offer a unique flavor profile that can enhance your culinary creations.
Lavender microgreens are packed with beneficial nutrients, providing you with a healthy and fresh addition to your meals.
The joy of cultivating these delicate greens right in your own home, from seed to harvest, is a satisfying experience that connects you with nature and the art of sustainable living. So, go ahead and give it a try!
Discover the beauty and taste of homegrown lavender microgreens and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with nurturing your own thriving garden.
