If you’ve ever eaten beetroot because you know it is good for you then you’ll be pleased to know that beet microgreens offer even more nutrient and are tastier, as well as much faster growing!
In fact, learning how to grow beet microgreens is something you should have done a long time ago!
Microgreens are an increasingly popular method of growing food; the plants are ready in a matter of weeks, they generally offer a higher nutritional value than mature plants, and they can be grown virtually anywhere.
But, the real beauty of growing microgreens, is that you can grow a variety of different plants. Each one needs just a tray and can be grown throughout the year; giving you an endless supply of your favorite microgreens.
Beet Microgreens Health Benefits
But, beet microgreens aren’t just fun and relatively easy to grow! They also offer a surprising number of health benefits:
- Skin Care
There is an array of minerals and other nutrients in beet microgreens that will help your body to get rid of dead skin cells and encourage new cells to grow. The result is healthier skin that should almost glow.
In fact, these minerals will even help to remove toxins from your blood, allowing your body to function more efficiently.
- Liver
The antioxidants in beet microgreens, specifically betaine, will help your liver secrete enzymes which remove toxins from the body, boost cell regeneration, and even help to burn fat! The result is a healthier liver that is better able to protect itself from infection.
- Hair Loss
The main cause of hair loss as you age is a deficiency in certain minerals and vitamins (1). Fortunately, your beet microgreens have a high content of potassium, iron, and electrolytes; all of which are essential to repairing hair and preventing you from losing it.
- Reducing Risk Of Cancer
There are carotenoids, flavonoids, and plenty of vitamins in every serving of beets microgreens. These can help to protect you from contracting lung or mouth cancers.
How to Grow Beet Microgreens
- Soak: No, this isn’t necessary
- Rinse/drain: No, beets actually don’t like a lot of water.
- Time to germinate: 2-3 days
- Time to harvest: 11-21 days, add an extra 7-10 days if you want true leaves.
Check out this step by step guide to growing beet microgreens:
Step 1 – Getting Ready
You’ll need a tray for your growing medium. A good size to start with is 10×20 but you can choose any container, depending on how much you think you’ll eat.
Remember, beet microgreens taste best when they are eaten fresh.
These microgreens are not keen on too much water, for this reason, it is important that your tray has drainage holes and that you have a water tray under it.
You’ll need to pick your growing medium. Beets prefer soil as they have an intricate root structure. However, it is a good idea to make it 80% sterilized soil and 20% earthworm castings. This will increase the number of nutrients available to your plants.
Put the soil mix in the tray, you’ll want approximately 1-inch worth but don’t pat it down to compact it.
Step 2 – Seeding
A 10×20 tray will accommodate approximately 6 tablespoons of seeds, spread evenly across the surface. However, before you spread your seeds it is a good idea to moisten your growing medium.
You can do this by soaking it and then allowing the water to drain out into the tray underneath.
Top Tip: Beet microgreen seeds are actually pods with lots of seeds inside. For this reason, you’ll need to press them all gently into the soil; ensuring they are partially covered. Alternatively, the best method is to sprinkle a little soil mixture over the seeds after you’ve planted them.
Once done, cover the tray and leave it for 4-5 days; they won’t need any water during this time.
Step 3 – Germination
This should take place on day 2 or 3. Have a look each day to check it is happening. But, you don’t need to do anything to your plants at this stage.
After 5-6 days the emerging plants will start to shed their hulls. At this point you can remove the cover and move the plants to a better lit location; it doesn’t need to be direct sunlight. You can use TL lights as well.
During the following growing period, you’ll need to water them with either a spray mist or by adding water to the tray under the growing medium (water them from the bottom).
Step 4 – Harvest
For the next 10-15 days, you’ll simply need to monitor the plants, ensuring they have water but are not soaked. Once you see the leaves opening, they’ll be green with red veins, they are ready to harvest.
Don’t forget you’ll need to leave them longer if you want true leaves (the second batch of leaves appearing on your plant).
FAQ for Beet Microgreens
How long do beet microgreens take to grow
They should be ready to harvest within 11-21 days, test each day to find the perfect flavor for you.
Of course, if you want the true leaf variety you’ll need to wait an extra 7-10 days.
How to eat beet microgreens
Add them to your salad, garnish your food, put them in a sandwich, or even eat them directly after harvesting. They are delicious and very nutritious.
How to harvest beet microgreens
Approximately 8 hours before you want to harvest you should stop watering your beets. This will reduce the amount of water on the plants and help to reduce the risk of mold, especially if you want to store them.
When ready, cut the stems close to the soil, but not so close that you pick up soil bits with your plants. They should be ready to eat instantly.
How to store beet microgreens
If they are dry when you harvest them you can place them in a plastic bag and store them in your refrigerator for up to 7 days.
However, if they have moisture on them you’ll need to remove this first by placing them between two paper towels and dabbing lightly.
What do beet microgreens taste like?
They actually have a slightly earthy taste, with a hint of pepper. It is a good complement to most dishes as is the vibrant color of beet microgreens.
If you haven’t already tried them, I suggest you use this guide and start growing your own beet microgreens today; you will be pleasantly surprised.
