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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

What are microgreens?

Microgreens are young vegetable greens harvested 7-14 days after germination. They're packed with nutrients—often containing 4-40 times more vitamins and antioxidants than mature plants—and add fresh flavor to meals. Common varieties include broccoli, radish, sunflower, and peas.

Where do you buy microgreen seeds?

We have been buying our Microgreen Seeds from Trueleaf Market for 7 years now! They are a trustworthy supplier, with fair pricing. When picking seeds, buying in bulk has a higher upfront cot, however it will save you money in the end. Click here for the seed supplier.

How long do microgreens take to grow?

Most varieties grow in 7-14 days from seed to harvest. Fast-growing varieties like radish can be ready in as little as 6 days, while slower varieties like basil may take up to 21 days.

Do I need special equipment to grow microgreens?

You can start with basic trays, growing medium, and seeds. Our 7x14 Microgreen Tray Kit includes everything except seeds for beginners. You'll also need a light source—either a sunny windowsill or a grow light.

Can I grow microgreens without soil?

Yes! You can grow microgreens hydroponically using reusable silicone grow mediums, coco coir, or directly on mesh trays. This keeps your growing area cleaner and minimizes the need for soil.

Are microgreens the same as sprouts?

No. Sprouts are germinated seeds eaten whole (roots, seeds, and shoots) within 2-7 days. Microgreens are grown in soil or growing medium for 7-21 days and harvested by cutting the stems, leaving roots behind.

Do microgreens regrow after cutting?

Most microgreens do not regrow after harvest. A few varieties like peas may produce a small second cutting, but quality and yield decline significantly. It's best to start a new tray for consistent results.

Where can I learn to grow microgreens?

We offer multiple learning resources:

Product Questions

What's the difference between silicone and stainless steel grow mediums?

Silicone is flexible, easy to clean, and dishwasher safe. It's great for beginners and works well with most seed varieties.

Stainless Steel is more durable, handles aggressive cleaning, and resists staining better. It's ideal for commercial growers or those who prefer a firmer growing surface.

Both are reusable for months with proper care. Compare both options here.

How do I clean reusable grow mediums?

  1. Scrape off roots with our cleaning tool
  2. Wash with warm water and free-and-clear soap
  3. Sanitize with boiling water (1-2 minutes) after every grow
  4. Air dry completely before storage

Total cleanup time: about 5 minutes per sheet. Many growers will wash and sanitize in batches for quicker timing.

How long do reusable grow mediums last?

With proper care, silicone and stainless steel grow mediums last for months of regular use. Replace them if tears, deep cuts, or excessive wear develops.

Which tray size should I start with?

The 7x14 OTG Microgreen Tray Kit is our most popular starter size. It's compact enough for countertops but produces enough microgreens for a small family. If you have more space, 10x20 trays are the commercial standard.

Do Bootstrap Farmer trays fit your products?

Yes! Our reusable grow mediums and tray clip labelers are designed to fit Bootstrap Farmer Heavy Duty 10x20 and 10x10 trays.

What seeds work best with reusable grow mediums?

Works great with: Sunflower, radish, broccoli, arugula, kale, cabbage, kohlrabi, and most Brassica family seeds.

Does NOT work well with: Swiss chard, beets, cilantro. These varieties perform better on soil or coco coir.

See full compatibility chart on each listing in the photos

Are your products made in the USA?

Our Bootstrap Farmer trays are made in the USA. Our Microgreen Tray Clip Labelers are designed, manufactured, and assembled in-house by us in Texas. Some products are sourced internationally to provide the best quality at reasonable prices. Though we are working towards all USA based as pricing becomes for sustainable for small businesses.

Growing Questions

What pH should I use for hydroponic microgreens?

We recommend 5.5-6.0 pH for most microgreen varieties. Use a pH meter and pH up/down solutions to adjust your nutrient water. Download our Free Fertilizer Ratio Guide for detailed mixing instructions.

How much light do microgreens need?

Most microgreens need 12-16 hours of light per day. You can use:

  • Sunny windowsill (south-facing works best)
  • LED grow lights positioned 6-12 inches above trays
  • Fluorescent shop lights (budget-friendly option)

Insufficient light causes leggy, pale microgreens. Adequate light produces thick stems and vibrant colors.

Why are my microgreens molding?

Common causes:

  • Overwatering — Medium should be moist, not saturated
  • Poor airflow — Add a small fan for gentle circulation
  • High humidity — Keep humidity around 40-60%
  • Dirty equipment — Sanitize trays and mediums between grows

Download our Free Troubleshooting Guide for solutions.

Can I use tap water?

It depends on your water quality. Most tap water works fine, but heavily chlorinated or very hard water can affect growth. If you notice problems, try filtered water or let tap water sit uncovered for 24 hours to off-gas chlorine.

Do I need fertilizer for microgreens?

Soil-grown: Usually no fertilizer needed if using quality potting mix.

Hydroponic (coco coir or reusable mediums): Yes, add hydroponic nutrients after germination. We use OceanSolution 2-0-3 at 0.5 oz per gallon for microgreens.

How do I prevent leggy microgreens?

  • Provide adequate light (12-16 hours daily)
  • Don't skip the blackout/weight phase during germination
  • Maintain proper temperature (65-75°F)
  • Ensure good airflow

What's the blackout method?

During germination (first 3-5 days), cover seeds with an upside-down tray or humidity dome to block light. This encourages strong stem development. Once seeds germinate 75%, move trays to light.

Shipping & Orders

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes! Free shipping on all US orders over $60.

How long does shipping take?

Orders typically ship within 1-3 business days. Delivery takes 3-7 business days depending on your location, weather, holidays and the shipping service. You'll receive a tracking number once your order ships. Once your order leaves our hands and is scanned into the shipping service, we do not personally have control over the timing or any delays. 

Do you ship internationally?

Currently, we only ship within the United States and Canada.

What's your return policy?

We offer a 1-year warranty on trays, tray kits, and reusable grow mediums. If you experience any issues, contact us at info@onthegrow.net. View full return policy.

Do you offer bulk or wholesale pricing?

For bulk orders or wholesale inquiries, please email info@onthegrow.net with details about your needs. We don't typically do these types of transactions, but we might consider it. 

Can I cancel or modify my order?

Contact us immediately at info@onthegrow.net if you need to modify your order. Once an order ships, we cannot make changes, but you can return items under our standard return policy.

Technical Questions

What fertilizer do you recommend?

For hydroponics, we use OceanSolution 2-0-3 at 0.5 oz per gallon. It's OMRI-listed organic, mixes cleanly, and doesn't clog systems.

For soil, we like Fox Farm Ocean Forest or Happy Frog blends, which provide nutrients without additional fertilizer.

Download our Free Fertilizer Ratio Guide.

What's the best temperature for growing microgreens?

Most varieties thrive at 65-75°F (18-24°C). Cooler temperatures slow growth, while temperatures above 80°F can cause poor germination and increased disease pressure.

How often should I water microgreens?

During germination: Mist 1-2 times daily to keep medium moist.

After germination: Bottom-water as needed (usually once daily) by adding water to reservoir tray. Medium should stay moist but not waterlogged.

Kratky systems: Check water levels every 2-3 days and refill or refresh as needed.

What's the difference between bottom-watering and top-watering?

Bottom-watering: Water is added to a reservoir tray beneath the grow tray. Roots absorb water from below. Reduces mold risk and keeps foliage dry.

Top-watering: Water applied directly to growing medium with spray bottle or watering can. Good for germination phase but can increase mold risk during growth.

We recommend bottom-watering for best results.

Can I reuse growing medium between crops?

Silicone/stainless steel reusable mediums: Yes, clean and sanitize between grows.

Coco coir: Can be reused once or twice if sterilized, but quality degrades. Most growers compost used coco coir.

Soil: Do not reuse. Compost spent soil and start fresh each time.

Business Questions

Can I sell microgreens I grow with your products?

Yes! Our products are made for both home and commercial use. Many of our customers run successful microgreens businesses using our trays and grow mediums. But always do your own research too!

Do I need special licenses to sell microgreens?

Requirements vary by state and locality. Common needs include:

  • Cottage food license or commercial kitchen access
  • Business license
  • Food handler's permit
  • Liability insurance

Check with your local health department and small business administration for specific requirements in your area.

How do I price my microgreens?

Pricing varies by region and market. Research local competitors and consider:

  • Production costs (seeds, supplies, utilities)
  • Labor time
  • Packaging
  • Delivery/market fees

Many growers charge ~ $25-40 per pound wholesale, ~ $35-50+ per pound at farmers markets.

Where can I learn more about starting a microgreens business?

Our Microgreen Masterclass course includes a section on business basics. Our book Becoming a Microgreen Master also covers business fundamentals.

Still Have Questions?

Email us: info@onthegrow.net

Watch tutorials: YouTube Channel (350+ videos)

Join our community: Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

Download free resources: Free PDF Guides