When it comes to microgreens, the yield can vary depending on the type of microgreen and the growing conditions. On average, one tray of microgreens can produce anywhere from 8 to 12 ounces of harvested greens. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the actual yield can be influenced by factors such as seed variety, growing medium, and growing environment.
To give you a more specific example, let’s say you decide to grow broccoli microgreens. A standard 10×20 inch tray can hold about 2 to 3 ounces of seeds. After germination and growth, you can expect the greens to reach a height of 1 to 2 inches within 10 to 14 days. At this point, you can harvest the microgreens by cutting them just above the soil line.
With broccoli microgreens, you can expect a yield of approximately 8 to 12 ounces per tray. This means that from a single tray, you can get enough microgreens to add a nutritious and flavorful punch to your salads, sandwiches, or smoothies. And the best part is that you can continuously harvest from the tray by cutting the greens as they regrow, often referred to as cut-and-come-again harvesting. This allows you to enjoy multiple harvests from the same tray, increasing your overall yield.
It’s important to mention that the yield can also be influenced by your growing practices. Providing the microgreens with optimal growing conditions, such as proper lighting, watering, and ventilation, can result in healthier and more productive plants. Additionally, using quality organic seeds and a nutrient-rich growing medium can also contribute to higher yields.
When considering the cost-effectiveness of growing microgreens, it’s essential to compare it to the price you would pay for store-bought microgreens. While the yield of one tray may not seem like a lot, the cost savings quickly add up when you consider the price per ounce at the grocery store or farmers’ market. By growing your own microgreens, you can have a consistent supply of fresh greens at a fraction of the cost.
In my personal experience, I have found growing microgreens to be a rewarding and cost-effective endeavor. Not only do I have control over the quality and freshness of the greens, but I also save money in the long run. Even if you spend about $75 on your full microgreens setup, including trays, grow lights, and seeds, you’ll still spend so much less money than you would buying tray after tray of microgreens at the grocery store (if you can even find them) or the farmers’ market.
So, whether you’re looking to save money, enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own food, or simply add a nutritious boost to your meals, growing microgreens is a fantastic option. With just one tray, you can produce a significant amount of greens that will not only enhance your dishes but also contribute to your overall well-being.
