How To Grow Southern Giant Curled Mustard Microgreens

Southern Giant Curled Mustard microgreens are a flavorful and spicy addition to your meals, known for their peppery taste and vibrant green leaves. These microgreens are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, K, and folate, making them a healthy choice for salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Growing them at home is easy and quick, allowing you to enjoy fresh greens in just a couple of weeks.

 

Supplies Needed

- Southern Giant Curled Mustard seeds
- Growing tray with drainage holes
- Organic seed-starting mix or soil
- Spray bottle for watering
- Light source (grow light or sunny window)
- Clear plastic cover or humidity dome (optional)

 

Planting Mustard Microgreens

Location and Light: Mustard microgreens can be grown indoors under a grow light or near a sunny window with indirect sunlight. Ensure they receive 4-6 hours of light daily.

Soil Preparation: Fill a shallow tray with 1-2 inches of organic seed-starting mix or potting soil. Lightly moisten the soil using a spray bottle before planting. Ensure the soil is evenly spread and not compacted.

Sowing Seeds: Evenly scatter the Southern Giant Curled Mustard seeds across the surface of the soil. The seeds should be close together but not overlapping. Gently press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as mustard seeds require light to germinate.

Covering: Optionally, cover the tray with a clear plastic lid or humidity dome to maintain moisture and encourage faster germination. Remove the cover once the seeds have sprouted, typically in 2-3 days.

 

Caring for Mustard Microgreens

Watering: Lightly mist the soil daily to keep it moist but not waterlogged. Alternatively, water from the bottom by placing the tray in a shallow container of water until the soil absorbs moisture.

Light Exposure: Once the seeds have sprouted, place the tray under a grow light or in a sunny window. Ensure the microgreens receive at least 12-16 hours of light daily for healthy growth.

Temperature: Mustard microgreens thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). Keep the growing area warm and avoid exposing the plants to extreme temperatures or drafts.

 

Harvesting Mustard Microgreens

When to Harvest: Southern Giant Curled Mustard microgreens are typically ready to harvest 10-14 days after planting when they are about 1-2 inches tall and have developed their first set of true leaves (cotyledons).

How to Harvest: Use clean scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line. Harvest only what you need, or cut the entire tray at once for a larger batch. Harvest early in the morning when the microgreens are crisp and fresh.

 

Storing and Using Mustard Microgreens

Storing Fresh Microgreens: Store harvested microgreens in an airtight container or plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week but are best used within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and nutrition.

Culinary Uses: Southern Giant Curled Mustard microgreens have a spicy, peppery flavor, making them a great addition to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and soups. Their bold flavor also makes them an excellent garnish for savory dishes.

 

Growing Tips

Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to mold or rot. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and ensure good air circulation around the tray.

Rotate the Tray: If growing near a window, rotate the tray every few days to ensure even exposure to light and prevent the microgreens from leaning toward the light.

Sanitize Trays: After each crop, clean and sanitize the trays to prevent disease or mold from affecting future crops.

 

Growing Southern Giant Curled Mustard microgreens is a quick and rewarding way to enjoy fresh, spicy greens at home. Their bold flavor and nutritional benefits make them a fantastic addition to any dish!