Growing Pea Shoots: The Easiest Microgreens for Beginners
Hey everyone, welcome back to some exciting news to share! Today’s post I'll be sharing everything you need to know about growing pea shoots, one of the most popular microgreens. If you're just starting with microgreens, pea shoots are the perfect choice. They're easy to grow and offer a delightful crunch and sweet flavor to your dishes. In this blog post, I'll guide you through the process of growing pea shoots, from seed selection to harvest. Let's dive in and start growing these vibrant and nutritious microgreens!
Soaking and Preparing the Seeds:
To begin, gather some pea seeds, which are relatively large compared to other microgreens. Place the seeds in a glass or container and soak them in water for 24 hours. This hydrates the seeds, preparing them for germination.
Choosing the Growing Medium:
For growing microgreens, I recommend using coconut coir as the growing medium. Coconut coir is pest-free, retains moisture well, and provides a favorable environment for the growth of microgreens. Pre-moisten the growing medium to prevent any expansion or contraction after planting.
Planting the Seeds:
After 24 hours of soaking, your pea seeds are ready for planting. Spread the seeds evenly on top of the pre-moistened growing medium in a container. You can either cover the seeds with more growing medium or use another plastic container to block out the light. For pea shoots, covering the seeds with growing medium works well.
Watering and Airflow:
Water the container one more time after planting the seeds. As the shoots begin to grow, water every other day using a spray bottle. It's crucial to ensure proper airflow by placing the container near an airflow source or a draft from an AC or heat vent. Adequate airflow prevents mold growth, which can be a concern when growing microgreens.
Shoot Development:
Within two days, you'll start to see the pea seeds developing shoots. Keep watering every other day and maintain the airflow. After another two days, the shoots will be approximately one inch tall. The growth should be even and healthy, thanks to the moisture-retaining properties of coconut coir.
Harvesting:
After a total of four to five days, the pea shoots will have reached a height of two to three inches and are ready for harvest. Unlike some other microgreens, pea shoots are forgiving and don't require specific black-out or weight application during growth. Simply cut the shoots with scissors or a knife, taking about four inches of the shoots. The harvested shoots can be added to various dishes, such as soups, salads, and sandwiches, to provide a crunchy and sweet flavor.
Growing pea shoots is an excellent entry point into the world of microgreens. With their ease of cultivation and delicious flavor, pea shoots offer a rewarding experience for beginners. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be able to enjoy the vibrant and nutritious pea shoots in your meals. So, let's get started and embark on a microgreen journey filled with freshness and taste!