Miniature Kratky Tray Kit
Want to try hydroponic microgreen growing without complicated systems? This compact all-in-one tray kit gives you everything you need for passive hydroponic growing using the Kratky method—perfect for small spaces, kitchen counters, or testing hydroponics before investing in larger setups.
What Is the Kratky Method?
The Kratky method, developed by Dr. Bernard Kratky, is a passive hydroponic system where plants grow above a nutrient-rich water reservoir without any pumps or electricity. Roots grow down into the water and absorb nutrients naturally while an air gap develops above the water line for oxygen exchange. It's hydroponics at its simplest—just plants, water, nutrients, and light.
This miniature version works just like our full-size Kratky setup, just in a smaller footprint that fits anywhere.
What's Included
Complete 4-Piece System:
- 1" Deep Mesh Tray (11" x 8" x 1"): Holds the grow medium and allows roots to grow through (2.5mm mesh size)
- 1" Deep No-Hole Tray (11" x 8" x 1.5"): Supports the mesh tray during germination phase
- 2.25" Deep Reservoir Tray (11" x 8.375" x 2.25"): Holds nutrient solution for passive feeding
- Silicone Reusable Grow Medium Sheet (Large Sprouting Tray Size): Minimizes the need for soil or coco coir, works with small seeds like broccoli
Material: Thick, durable BPA-free PP (Polypropylene) plastic built for repeated use.
Quantity: Single pack (1 complete kit)
How It Works
Simple 5-Step Process:
- Assemble the trays (stack mesh tray in support tray for germination)
- Add silicone grow medium and seed your microgreens
- Guide through germination using standard blackout/weight methods
- Fill reservoir with nutrient solution once seeds germinate
- Place under light and let the Kratky system do the work
Roots grow down into the nutrient solution and naturally absorb what they need. The 2.25" deep reservoir holds enough solution to feed crops for several days, depending on variety and growth stage.
Why This Kit Works
No pumps, no electricity: Pure passive hydroponics—set it up and let it grow
Worry-free watering: Deep reservoir means you can step away for a day or two without crops drying out. Once roots reach the water, they stay hydrated automatically.
Compact footprint: Fits on kitchen counters, apartment windowsills, small grow spaces, or anywhere you have room for a compact tray
Reusable grow medium included: No need to buy soil or coco coir. The included silicone sheet works with small seeds and cleans up in minutes.
Educational support: Not sure how to get started? We've got you covered with step-by-step videos and detailed blog guides showing exactly how we use this setup.
Perfect For
Beginners: New to hydroponics and want to try it without expensive equipment or complicated systems
Small space growers: Apartment dwellers, dorm rooms, tiny kitchens—anywhere space is limited
Hobby growers: You want fresh microgreens but don't need commercial quantities
Kratky experimenters: Testing the method before scaling up to larger systems
Countertop gardeners: You want a neat, contained growing system that looks good in your kitchen
Quick Tips
During growth: Periodically check water levels and ensure roots stay in contact with nutrient solution. Top up as needed.
Between grows: Clean trays with warm soapy water, sanitize silicone grow medium (boiling water method, 1-2 minutes), dry thoroughly before next use.
What You'll Need (Not Included)
- Microgreen seeds
- Hydroponic nutrients (fertilizer)
- Grow light (if not placing in bright natural light)
- Water
Check our blog for specific nutrient recommendations and our Free Fertilizer Ratio Guide for mixing instructions.
Learn More
Step-by-step blog guide: How to Grow Red Pak Choi Microgreens Using the Mini Kratky Tray
Video tutorials: Check our YouTube channel for video walk-throughs showing the complete process from setup to harvest.
Product Specifications
Shallow Mesh Tray:
- Internal Size: 11" x 8" x 1"
- Mesh Size: 2.5mm
Shallow No-Hole Tray (Green):
- Internal Size: 11" x 8" x 1.5"
Deep Reservoir Tray (Green):
- Internal Size: 11" x 8.375" x 2.25"
Kit Contents:
- 3 trays (1 mesh, 2 solid)
- 1 silicone reusable grow medium sheet (large sprouting tray size)
- Quantity: Single pack
Material: BPA-free PP (Polypropylene) plastic for trays, food-safe silicone for grow medium
Important Silicone Grow Medium Information
Fiberglass core construction: The silicone grow medium contains a fiberglass core for structural support. Replace your silicone if it develops tears, deep cuts, or significant wear that could compromise its integrity. For detailed guidance on when to replace, read our Silicone In-Depth Blog.
Staining: Silicone can develop stains with some seed varieties (particularly beets and certain mustards). This is normal and doesn't affect performance or food safety.
Safety: Please review our Reusable Grow Medium Safety Disclaimer prior to purchase for complete safety information.
Hydroponic microgreen growing made simple—no pumps, no electricity, just fresh greens growing on your counter. 🌱