Sure, seeds get all the glory, but let’s be real. If your microgreens don’t have the right tray to call home, you’re setting them up for a soggy, moldy, root-rotting disaster. (We’ve been there. RIP, first batch of radish greens.)
The Dynamic Duo: Planting Tray + Watering Tray
When it comes to trays, it takes two to tango:
Planting Tray (aka: where the magic happens)
This is the shallow tray where your microgreens sprout, stretch, and show off. Make sure it has drainage holes across the bottom, those babies don’t like soggy feet. Opaque trays (black or dark green) block light from the roots, which actually makes them stronger and less pouty.
Pro Tip: Look for sturdy materials. Flimsy trays crack faster than a dry kale chip.
Watering Tray (aka: the hydration station)
This tray goes under your planting tray and holds water for bottom watering. It should be watertight (no holes here!) and tall enough to prevent splashy disasters. Bonus points if it has ridges or bumps to lift the planting tray slightly, so the roots don’t soak too long.
Bottom Watering: The Secret Sauce to Healthy Roots
Bottom watering helps prevent fungus, mold, and drama. Depending on your tray setup, here’s how it plays out:
- Watering Tray Larger Than Planting Tray:
Great for easy lifts and pours, but don’t forget to dump any extra water. Too much of a good thing = root rot. - Watering Tray Same Size as Planting Tray:
Effortless and tidy. Just pour, plop, and let the magic happen. Any extra water overflows naturally (in a good way).
Think Like a Grower: What to Look for in Trays
- Drainage holes in the planting tray
- Watertight bottom tray
- Dark color to protect roots
- Durable enough for repeat use
- Optional: stackable, reusable, made from recycled materials
On a Budget? Grab These Household Hacks
Don’t feel like buying new trays just yet? We got you:
- Planting Tray Alternative: Washed produce containers with holes poked in the bottom
- Watering Tray Stand-In: A baking sheet, plastic takeout lid, or shallow roasting pan
- Elevator Add-on: Flip a couple bottle caps upside down to lift your planting tray for drainage
- Just don’t forget to wash and rinse well, microgreens don’t pair well with last week’s spaghetti sauce.
Final Sprout of Wisdom
Trays might not be the flashiest part of your grow setup, but trust us, they matter a lot. Choose wisely, get creative if you need to, and remember: even the fanciest seed can’t grow if it’s swimming in soggy soil or stuck in a tray with no drainage.