Microgreen Seed Density Charts

Nick Greens, Horticulturist/Consultant

Microgreens are becoming increasingly popular, allowing growers the opportunity to expand further into existing markets or to venture into new markets.  From farmers markets to local restaurants and chefs, microgreens are perfect for enhancing salads or using as a garnish. By definition, microgreens are tiny plants with only their first leaves developed. Most varieties are harvested at 8-14 days and while they may be smaller and more delicate, they are also more robust and flavorful. The CropKing microgreen growing system is a cost-effective and efficient way to maximize production while ensuring high quality.

The correct seed density is crucial to the success of growing microgreens. The chart below was put together to assist all microgreen growers in finding the correct information for growing over 20 different varieties. Click here to download a printable chart.
 

Soaking Seeds (large seeds)

  • To soak the microgreen seeds, a plastic kitchen storage container works well
  • Use cold water (always pH balanced)
  • Refrigerate in warm weather
  • Soak for 8-12 hrs typically.
  • Fill the container with enough water to rise above the seeds ¾” to 1”. The seeds will swell as they absorb water, and you’ll want to be sure they stay below the water line.

Soaking the Burlap Grow Mat
Plan to put the mat in the day before you plant. Once you know how many total channels/trays of microgreens you’ll be planting.

  • Fold and place burlap mat in a soaking tub.
  • Fill the tub with water until it’s completely covers mats.
  • Cover and soak overnight.

 

*All weights are for an 10"x20" tray

 

EASIEST TO GROW

Arugula

Seeding Rate:  0.7 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  1-3 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-14 Days

 

Broccoli

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  2-3 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  10-14 Days

 

Buckwheat

Seeding Rate:  12 oz

Pre-Soak:  Yes

Blackout Time:  3-4 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-12 Days

 

Cabbage

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  2-4 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-12 Days

 

Chia

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  2-3 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-12 Days

 

Kale

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  2-4 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-14 Days

 

Kohlrabi

Seeding Rate:  0.7 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  2-4 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-14 Days

 

Mustard

Seeding Rate:  0.7 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  2-4 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-12 Days

 

Sunflower

Seeding Rate:  9.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  Yes

Blackout Time:  2-4 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-14 Days

 

Wheatgrass

Seeding Rate:  16.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  Yes

Blackout Time:  2 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-10 Days

 

AVERAGE DIFFICULTY

Celery Leaf

Seeding Rate:  0.75 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  6-8 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  18-21 Days

*Slow to germinate and emerge

 

Popcorn

Seeding Rate:  8.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  Yes

Blackout Time:  6-10 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  6-10 Days

*Keep in the dark for full 6-10 days to harvest

 

Fennel

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  3-5 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  14+ Days

 

Leek

Seeding Rate:  2.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  3-5 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  12-14 Days

*Seed heavy

 

Peas

Seeding Rate:  12.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  Yes

Blackout Time:  3-5 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-14 Days

*Use plenty of water when soaking seed, they are extremely absorbent
 

Sorrel

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  3-5 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  12-16 Days

*Keep seeds in freezer to help with germination rates

 

HARDEST DIFFICULTY

Amaranth

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  3-6 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  8-14 Days

*Prefers warmer environment, sensitive to direct light

 

Basil

Seeding Rate:  1.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  4-7 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  14-18 Days

*Spray through to establish root

 

Beets

Seeding Rate:  2.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  Yes

Blackout Time:  6-8 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  10-14 Days

 

Chard

Seeding Rate:  2.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  Yes

Blackout Time:  4-7 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  10-14 Days

 

Cilantro (Coriander)

Seeding Rate:  2.0 oz

Pre-Soak:  No

Blackout Time:  6-7 Days

Estimated Time to Harvest:  21-28 Days

*Keep medium moist throughout black out period, prefers cooler temperatures

 

Download a printable chart below!

microgreens seed chart
SeedingCharts.pdf (145.85 KB)