How To Grow Collard Microgreens

<a href='https://typesofmicrogreens.com/author/admin/'>Jon Smith</a>Jon Smith
August 1, 2021

Collard greens are a southern comfort food packed full of nutrients. These cruciferous vegetables are from the same family as, Bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale. Collar microgreens contain large amounts of vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and iron.

You can expect the following benefits from regular consumption of collard microgreens:

  • Collard microgreens help to decrease high cholesterol levels thanks to their high fiber content.
  • Micro collard greens reduce blood pressure readings for improved heart health. 
  • Reduce your cancer risk by eating more collard microgreens.
  • Improve bone health and reduce the risk of broken bones and osteoporosis with micro collard greens.
  • Detoxify the liver and improve digestion with collard microgreens' fiber.

Collard microgreens are easy to grow and can be harvested within 10 to 12 days of planting these delicious and nutritious greens. The dark green color and fresh, collard green flavor are delicious in a variety of dishes.

 Microgreen Profile

Are you interested in growing collard microgreens? Our easy-to-read chart helps you quickly identify the important information you need for planting, growing, and harvesting micro collard greens.

AttributeProfile
Flavor Collard microgreens have an intense, fresh collard green flavor that you will love.
Pre-Soak (Yes/No)  Presoaking is not needed for collard microgreen seeds.
Color  Collard microgreens have a dark green color that is beautiful on sandwiches, garnishes, and salads.
Germination Time  Collard microgreens will germinate in 1 to 2 days after planting.
Harvest Time  You can expect to harvest your collard microgreens within 10 to 12 days of planting.
Green Thumb Level (1-5)  1-2 – Collard microgreens are easy to grow and can be grown in soil or hydroponically.

Collard microgreens provide you with a crunchy fresh taste that is great in a variety of dishes. As a member of the Brassica family, micro collard greens provide numerous health benefits and are super easy to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering growing collard microgreens, you may have questions. Here is a list of the frequently asked questions about collard microgreens.

Do Collard Microgreens Regrow After Harvesting?

No – Collard microgreens will not regrow after harvesting.

How Fast Do Collard Microgreens Grow?

Collard microgreens are very fast growing. These microgreens germinate within 1 to 2 days and are ready to harvest within 10 to 12 days.

What Growing Method Do Collard Microgreens Prefer?

You can grow collard microgreens both hydroponically or in the soil.

How Many Seeds Do You Need for a 10 Inch By 20 Inch Germination Tray?

You will need approximately 1.2 ounces of collard microgreen seeds for each 10 inch by 20 inch growing tray.

What Is the Difference Between Collard Microgreens and Collard Greens?

Collard microgreens have a higher nutrient count and have a more intense flavor than full-grown collard greens.

Equipment Needed to Grow Collard Microgreens

Growing microgreens requires a small investment; however, you will reap great rewards in terms of value and nutrition. Our microgreen growing method described below will help ensure you are able to harvest a large crop of delicious micro collard greens.

Starter Kits

Retailers like True Leaf Market and Amazon offer starter kits that provide you with the equipment that you need to grow microgreens. A deluxe microgreen kit provides you with the growing medium, growing trays, and misting bottle you will need to grow collard microgreens.

Specific Equipment Needed for Collard Microgreens

You can also purchase individual pieces of equipment for growing collard microgreens. Here are the recommended pieces of equipment you will need to purchase.

Collard Microgreen Growing Medium

The first thing you will need to purchase for growing collard microgreens is the growing medium. The growing medium will ensure that your micro Collard greens stay properly hydrated. You have several options when it comes to growing mediums for collard greens.

Coconut Coir is our preferred growing medium. This growing medium helps maintain moisture levels, provides the optimal growing medium for collard greens, and is made from coconuts, which means it is a totally renewable growing medium.

MOTHER EARTH Coco Plus Perlite Mix - For Indoor and Outdoor Container Gardens, Provides Strong Aeration & Drainage, 70% Coconut Coir, Resists Compaction, 50 Liter
  • Mother Earth Coco + Perlite is a great alternative to potting soil as it enables gardeners to aggressively feed and not worry about over-watering
  • Use Mother Earth Coco + Perlite with indoor and outdoor container gardens
  • Achieve better aeration and drainage with a mix that incorporates 70% of the finest coconut coir and 30% perlite
  • Plant directly in Mother Earth Coco + Perlite
  • Coconut coir resists compaction and last longer in a container (vs traditional growing media)

Seed starting soil is another growing medium that can be used for growing micro collard greens. Seed starting soil is fine-grained and provides your collard microgreens with the nutrients they need for optimal germination and growth.

Sale
FoxFarm Ocean Forest FX14000 -1.5 Cubic Foot Organic Potting Soil
  • SIZE: 38.6 quarts of FoxFarm Ocean Forest Potting Soil for your hungry plants
  • APPLICATION: Ultimate potting soil that has everything your plants need in one bag
  • CONTENTS: Blend of earthworm castings, bat guano, sea-going fish & crab meal, forest humus, moss & more
  • PH LEVELS: Ocean Forest is pH adjusted at 6.3 to 6.8 to allow for optimum fertilizer uptake
  • BENEFITS: Encourages strong branching and a sturdy, healthy growth habit and is ideal for containerized plantings

Collard Microgreens Growing Trays

You will need three trays for your collard microgreens – two without holes and one with holes. You will use one tray with holes and one tray without holes for the bottom. In addition to this, you will use the other tray without holes for the top. We recommend using 1- inch by 20 inch growing trays; however, there are other sized growing trays available that can be used.  

With Holes – The one growing tray with holes will hold your growing medium and seeds. This growing tray will allow you to water your micro collard greens from the bottom up, which can reduce the risk of soilborne illnesses and diseases.

Sale
10 Plant Growing Trays (with Drain Holes) - 20" x 10" - Perfect Garden Seed Starter Grow Trays: for Seedlings, Indoor Gardening, Growing Microgreens, Wheatgrass & More - Soil or Hydroponic
  • Quantity 10 - Durable Plastic - WITH Drain Holes
  • Perfect for hydroponic growing and seed starting
  • Approx: 21" by 11" (top measurement). 20" by 10" bottom of tray - See product description below for precise measurments
  • Accomodates 20" x 10" Sure to Grow Hydroponic Grow Pads and Micro-Mats Perfectly
  • Reusable - Great for Greenhouse, Seedlings, wheatgrass, microgreens and more.

Without Holes – The two growing trays without holes are used for the top and the bottom of your germination chamber. The bottom tray will hold the water needed for bottom watering. The top tray will block out light during the germination process.

Sale
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes) - 20" x 10" - Perfect Garden Seed Starter Grow Trays: for Seedlings, Indoor Gardening, Growing Microgreens, Wheatgrass & More - Soil or Hydroponic
  • Quantity 10 - Durable Plastic - NO Drain Holes
  • Perfect for use as a drip tray, hydroponic growing and seed starting
  • Approx: 21" by 11" (top measurement). 20" by 10" bottom of tray - See product description below for precise measurments
  • Accomodates 20" x 10" Sure to Grow Hydroponic Grow Pads and Micro-Mats Perfectly
  • Reusable - Great for Greenhouse, Seedlings, wheatgrass, microgreens and more.

Collard Microgreen Misting Bottle

A simple misting bottle allows you to easily keep the growing medium moist without overwatering or disturbing your collard microgreen seeds.

GETTON 2.0L Garden Sprayer, Hand-held Pressure Pump Sprayer Plant Mister Spray Bottle with Adjustable Nozzle and Detachable Wand for Indoor Outdoor Household Cleaning Garden Lawn Watering
  • 【Safe Pressure Valve】The garden spraying bottle equipped with a safety pressure release valve, which allows you to control the pressure of water and automatically releases the excess pressure. The pump holds a good amount of pressure while offers a place reducing fatigue while operating the equipment.
  • 【Adjustable Nozzle】The premium adjustable nozzle of this garden sprayer can be easily adjusted the intensity of the water from direct injection to fine mist spray as desired. Greater even coverage for a better performance.
  • 【Durable & Easy to Clean】The pump sprayer is manufactured from PP material for excellent durability. 2L Translucent water tank can clearly show the liquid level inside so you can add more in time. It is also convenient for cleaning.
  • 【Wide Application】This universal pressure sprayer can accommodate your daily cleaning and watering needs both indoors and outdoors . Ideal for household cleaning, watering plants and flowers, misting veggies, pet bathing, and moisturizing flowers.
  • 【Ergonomic Handle】The pump pressure sprayer comes with an ergonomic 4-finger handle that is non-slip for effortless use and convenient to be carried anywhere. A removable long wand is good to help spray more spaces or hard-to-reach places.

Collard Microgreens Grow Light

Microgreens do best when you use a full spectrum grow light. A grow light will ensure your collard microgreens are healthy, grow consistently, and turn the beautiful dark green you have come to know and love.

Sale
Barrina LED Grow Light, 144W( 6 x 24W, 800W Equivalent), 2ft T8, Full Spectrum, High Output, Linkable Design, T8 Integrated Bulb+Fixture, Plant Lights for Indoor Plants, 6-Pack
  • Full Spectrum - Barrina grow light is a great option for plants that in seedling, vegetative and flowering cycle. It provides light that plants need, especially blue and red light
  • Integrated Plant Light Chips- Compare with the lamp consisting of only "blue chips" + "red chips", integrated plant light chips have more efficiency and better color layout
  • Super Bright - Consume only 144W with 576 LEDS totally, replacing 800W general plant lights. These grow light provid a higher PPFD
  • Easy Installation - Plug and play. And could link up to 6 grow lights in a series by 48 inches connecting cords. Also, you could mount to ceiling or hang up for shelf. Saving your installation cost and time
  • Quality Assurance - 2-year unlimited warranty, easy and fast replacement is offered if any quality issue

(Optional) Collard Microgreens Heating Mat

The optimal temperature for germination is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. A heating mat will help maintain the soil temperature to improve the germination rate of your collard microgreens.

HYDGOOHO Waterproof Seedling Heat Mat for Seed Starting Propagation and Increase Germination Success 10 Inch x 20.75 Inch MET Safety Standard Certified
  • Makes a differeance in germination time, leafy greens in about 2 days and tomatoes 3-4 days for sprouts.
  • Try to use the seedling heat mat and heat mat thermostat to heat water in the seed container to increase humidity in your grow tent.
  • Using to keep a batch of fermenting beer wort at 72F is also available
  • Great affordable heating solution to starting plants from seed.
  • If you’re doing home gardening for your seasonings, go find this seedling heat mat sets.

(Optional) Collard Microgreen Planting Rack

A planting rack is used to hold multiple trays of microgreens, circulation fans, and grow lights. Using a planting rack allows you to utilize the vertical space in an area in your home to maximize your ability to grow several trays of microgreens at one time.

Storage Shelves 2100Lbs Capacity, 6-Shelf on Casters 48" L×18" W×82" H Wire Shelving Unit Adjustable Layer Metal Rack Strong Steel for Restaurant Garage Pantry Kitchen,Black
  • IMPRESSIVE STORAGE CAPACITY - With six tiers of shelving, this unit boasts an enormous amount of space and shelving. It’s able to provide a great deal of additional storage without taking up too much space itself.
  • STURDY AND DURABLE - Constructed from heavy-duty steel wire, this shelf is durable and resistant to dirt buildup and corrosion. Each shelf has a capacity of up to 220 lbs when properly assembled, with a maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs total.
  • ADJUSTABILITY - You can adjust the height of the storage shelves in one-inch increments, creating a customized unit best suited for your specific storage needs.
  • MULTIFUNCTIONALITY - This metal shelving unit can be used virtually anywhere, in the kitchen, the bathroom, the garage, outdoor shed, and more. It’s perfect for storing tools, clothes, books, and whatever else is taking up space in your home or office. Equipped with wheels, you can transport this unit smoothly and efficiently room to room.
  • FAST, EASY ASSEMBLY: The shelving unit comes packaged ready to assemble, and doesn’t require any tools for installation. In just 15 minutes, your unit can be installed and ready to save space.

(Optional) Collard Microgreen Circulation Fans

Circulation fans are used to increase the airflow across your microgreens, which can help reduce the risk of mold.

Sale
Active Air HORF6 6-Inch Clip-On 360-Degree 5W Brushless Motor Hydroponic Grow Fan with Spring-Loaded Plastic Clip for Gardens, Black, 2 Pack
  • LONG LASTING: Fan features a 5W brushless motor that lasts longer and can be hooked up to fan speed controllers; Features a smooth and quiet operation (2 Pack)
  • CLIP-ON DESIGN: Clip-on portable fan is convenient and effective for small spaces; Can be used to help grow healthy plants or for cooling, in your garden, flood tables for airflow under foliage, small spaces, or on your office desk with a spring-loaded plastic clip that won't mar surfaces
  • AIR-FLOW: With the 6-inch adjustable-angle head that rotates 360 degrees you can direct airflow where you need it and it can also be wall-mounted to free up space
  • DURABLE: The cooling fan features 3 durable plastic blades and the easily-removable safety grills make cleaning a breeze; The motor outlasts traditional fans that use oil to lubricate rotation
  • SPECIFICATIONS: The product has a 6-foot power cord and is powered by DC 5V/5W making it energy efficient; Weight: 1 pound; Dimensions of (L x W x H): 6 x 8 x 8 inches; Quantity: 2

Collard Microgreen Seed Options

Vates – Vates Collard microgreen seeds provide a true brassica flavor. The germination rate of these seeds is high. You can expect your microgreen seeds to germinate within a couple of days, and you can be enjoying collard microgreens in less than 2 weeks. These easy to grow micro collard greens are extremely flavorful and offer a load of nutrients.

Step by Step Growing Guide for Collard Microgreens

Our easy-to-understand and easy-to-follow step-by-step growing guide for collard microgreens will ensure that you can easily grow and harvest collard microgreens. We walk you through the process from beginning to end. You will learn how to prepare your growing trays, how to plant collard microgreen seeds, how collard microgreens germinate, how to grow micro collard greens, how to harvest collard microgreens, and how to store collard microgreens.

Step 1 Prepare Your Collard Microgreen Growing Trays

The first thing you must do is to prepare your growing trays for collard microgreens. Begin by placing the growing tray with holes inside a growing tray without holes. This setup allows you to water from the bottom, which can reduce the risk of mold, powdery mildew, and other soilborne diseases.

Once you have prepared your growing trays, it is time to add the soil and prepare for sowing collard microgreen seeds. Fill the grow tray with holes almost to the top with the growing medium, ensuring the growing medium is level from side to side. Use the remaining growing tray and gently press down to level the soil. If necessary, add more soil until the soil is slightly below the top of the tray.

Once you have filled your collard microgreen trays with soil, you will want to water your growing medium so that it is ready for the seeds. You can use your misting bottle to thoroughly water your soil from the top down, or you can water from the bottom up. If using the misting bottle, wet the soil thoroughly (approximately 10 squirts across the tray and allow it to soak in for 5 minutes, repeating the process five times to ensure the soil is amply moistened.  If you decide to water from the bottom up, lift your tray with holes up slightly and add an inch or two of water to the bottom tray. Replace the tray and allow the soil to soak up the water for approximately 30 minutes.

Step 2 Plant Collard Microgreen Seeds

You will need approximately 1 ounce of seeds for each 10 inch by 20 inch microgreen growing tray. Sow the seeds evenly across the entire surface of your grow tray. Then, gently press down to help set the seeds in the soil. Finally, sprinkle a small amount of soil atop your collard microgreen seeds and press the soil atop the collard microgreen seeds.

Once you have planted the seeds, you will need to water them before placing the germination tray atop the seeds. Grab your misting bottle and spray 10 sprays across the entire surface of the tray. The fine mist of water ensures the soil and seeds are properly moistened without disturbing them. This is why you should only water using a misting bottle during this step.

Step 3 Understand the Collard Microgreens Germination Process

After you have watered the seeds and soil, it is time to place the remaining tray atop the seeds and soil. Invert the tray and place a brick or heavy stone atop the third tray. The weighted-down inverted tray ensures that your seeds remain in total darkness during the germination process.

When seeds are planted in soil, the soil is placed atop the seeds, which blocks out all traces of light. When sowing microgreens in growing trays, only a small amount of soil is placed on top of the seeds. The inverted tray allows you to keep your collard microgreen seeds in complete darkness. Once you have placed the inverted tray atop your seeds, place the tray in a dark place like an unused closet.

Step 4 Place Your Collard Microgreens Under Grow Lights

Your collard microgreens must remain in complete darkness until during the germination process. Once your collard microgreens have germinated, you will remove the blackout tray and place your collard microgreens under the LED full spectrum grow lights.

Place your micro collard greens approximately 12 inches away from the grow lights and turn the lights on. Within just a few days, your pale, white collard greens will turn a beautiful dark green as photosynthesis occurs. Your collard microgreens will remain under these grow lights until your micro collards are ready to be harvested.

Step 5 Turn on Your Collard Microgreens Circulation Fans

One of the main things you can do to reduce the risk of mildew, mold, and other soilborne diseases is to use circulation fans. These fans increase airflow to your collard greens. Attach the circulation fans to the side of your planting rack and allow the air to blow horizontally across the microgreens rather than down on the plants.

Step 6 Know When to Harvest Collard Microgreens

Knowing when to harvest your collard microgreens is of vital importance. Most people find that the easiest way to determine the appropriate time for harvesting is to begin sampling collard microgreens as soon as the two cotyledons form and the first set of true leaves form.

Taste a small amount of collard microgreens daily until they develop the color, texture, and flavor you desire. Then, withhold water from your micro collard greens for 8 to 12 hours to ensure your collard microgreens remain crisp after harvest.

Harvesting Collard Microgreens

When it is time to harvest collard microgreens, you will need a clean paper towel or plate and a pair of sharp scissors or a sharp knife. Gently grasp the collard greens in one hand and cut the stem near the soil level, placing the freshly harvested micro collard greens on a clean paper towel.

The next step will depend on whether you plan on eating the collard microgreens immediately or storing the collard microgreens. If you will be eating the microgreens immediately, you will want to wash your microgreens. Conversely, if you will be storing the collard microgreens, you will not wash your microgreens. Instead, you will go to the next step and wash the microgreens when you are ready to eat them.

Washing your microgreens is simple. Fill a large bowl with cool, not cold water. Place the collard microgreens in the water and swirl to remove any dirt. Then, lay the freshly washed microgreens on a clean paper towel and allow the collards to dry before using.

Storing Collard Microgreens

Collard microgreens will store in the refrigerator for a week to ten days when they are properly stored. If you plan on storing or shipping collard microgreens, follow these directions as soon as you harvest your micro collard greens.

Microgreens must be stored in a cold refrigerator to maintain their crispness. Wrap the microgreens loosely in a clean paper towel and place them in an airtight storage bag or storage bowl. Place the storage container in the crisper drawer until you are ready to eat them. You will then remove them from the refrigerator and follow the instructions listed above on how to wash your collard microgreens.

Final Thoughts

Collard microgreens are delicious and filled with vital nutrients that help promote health and wellness. Micro collard greens can be enjoyed in soups, salads, or sandwiches. They are easy to grow and provide you with the perfect accompaniment to your favorite southern dish.

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How To Grow Collard Microgreens
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About The Author
I have been growing microgreens for myself and others for quite some time now and I absolutely love the process.

Even more I love spreading awareness of an amazing crop that has so many nutritional benefits for our bodies which improve our overall health and wellbeing.

Jon Smith

Founder/Writer
Copyright 2021 TypesOfMicrogreens.com All Rights Reserved!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.