(Colorado State University. Libraries, 2018) Lake, Julie A., author; Davis, Jessica, advisor
Microgreens are edible vegetable, herb, and even flower plants that are harvested between 7 to 15 days after germination, when cotyledons and/or two ‘true’ leaves have emerged. Harvest parameters often vary depending on the type of plant being produced. The seedlings are harvested by cutting the hypocotyl just above the grow media, leaving the radicle behind. The hypocotyl, cotyledons, and often emerging first two 'true leaves' are the parts of the plant that are consumed. Plants in this early stage of development have a much higher nutritional content than their mature counterparts. Microgreens can be produced using a variety of growing methods, are easily grown in small or large quantities, and can be grown in almost any location. These factors make microgreens a quick growing source of nutritious food in the U.S. and globally. Researching different possible methods that can be used to grow microgreens could benefit future food supplies. Three separate, randomized replications were completed in a greenhouse setting. Each replication contained six different types of media, the grow media performance and microgreen production results were compared. Results showed the seed starter mix and the germinating media mix had the highest harvest volumes and required the least amount of water overall. Future research can include more media options, such as rockwool, vermicompost, perlite/vermiculite mix, coconut coir fibers/dust (not in a mat form), and sugarcane filter cake.
