Microgreen Seed Density Charts
8/1/2018
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 completely covers mats.
Cover and soak overnight.
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 blackout period, prefers cooler temperatures