How To Grow Kale Microgreens

<a href='https://typesofmicrogreens.com/author/admin/'>Jon Smith</a>Jon Smith
October 10, 2021

Kale microgreens are one of the fastest and easiest to grow microgreens, making them an excellent choice for beginner microgreen gardeners. Kale microgreens are filled with antioxidants, minerals, and antioxidants.

Kale microgreens have compounds that aid in the detoxification process to help remove carcinogens in the body, which may help reduce the risk of cancer. In addition to this, kale contains substantial amounts of vitamin C. The body uses vitamin C to promote collagen production, reduce the risk of cancer, and boost the immune system.

The polyphenols found in kale can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks, stroke, and high blood pressure. Finally, kale contains carotene that improves eye health by reducing the effects of aging and cellular degeneration of the eye tissues.

Microgreen Profile

Growing kale microgreens is simple. Check out our handy microgreen profile for the pertinent growing information about kale microgreens.

AttributeProfile
FlavorNutty, broccoli flavor
Pre-Soak (Yes/No)   No
Color   Pale green tops on white to light pink stems
Germination Time   2 to 3 days
Harvest Time  8 to 12 days
Green Thumb Level (1-5)  1 – Kale microgreens are one of the easiest to grow microgreens on the market.

Kale microgreens are easy to grow, delicious, and full of important nutrients to improve your health. The mild brassica flavor pairs beautifully with corn microgreens, carrot microgreens, and other microgreens with sweet undertones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are new to microgreen gardening or have been growing microgreens for quite some time, you may have questions. We have gathered the most frequently asked questions about kale microgreens and have provided you with easy to understand answers.

Do Kale Microgreens Regrow After Harvesting?

Kale microgreens will not regrow after harvesting. Once you have harvested your kale microgreens, compost the soil and roots and start a tray of kale microgreens.

How Fast Do Kale Microgreens Grow?

Kale microgreens are fast growing. You should expect a bountiful harvest within 8 to 12 days after planting.

How Should Kale Microgreens Be Eaten?

Kale microgreens are delicious and pair beautifully with your favorite pasta dishes, sandwiches, wraps, and salads. The crisp, nutty brassica flavor is delightful when paired with sweet herbs and microgreens.

What Do Kale Microgreens Taste Like?

Kale microgreens taste similar to other types of brassicas; however, their flavor is milder and sweeter, resulting in a delightful microgreen.

Equipment Needed to Grow Kale Microgreens

Growing kale microgreens is easy. They can be grown using several different growing methods; however, in order to ensure success. We recommend the following growing method. The supplies listed below will ensure you can successfully grow kale microgreens.

Kale Microgreen Starter Kits

A starter kit provides you with the pieces of equipment needed to grow kale microgreens. True Leaf Market's Deluxe Starter Kit provides you with the equipment you need to grow kale microgreens.

Specific Equipment Needed for Kale Microgreens

If you prefer, you can purchase the equipment needed to grow kale microgreens separately. There are also optional pieces of equipment, listed separately, that can help make growing microgreens easy and maximize your harvest.

Kale Microgreen Growing Mediums

Kale is very easy to grow and can be grown in a variety of growing mediums, including coconut coir and seed starting growing medium. Our first choice when it comes to growing microgreens is coconut coir.

Coconut Coir

Coconut coir is a renewable growing medium that retains moisture without increasing the risk of soilborne diseases like mold and mildew. This growing medium has a neutral pH, making it a wonderful choice for kale microgreens.

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 Growing Medium

A seed starting growing medium is designed to provide your kale microgreen seeds with the nutrients needed for an optimal crop. This fine grained soil is similar to the potting soil that most people are accustomed to using.

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

Kale Microgreen Growing Trays

You will need three trays to grow your kale microgreens. Two trays will not have drainage holes and one tray will have drainage holes. You will use two trays for the bottom and one tray for the top. Typically, microgreen gardeners prefer to use 10 inch by 20 inch growing trays; however, there are other sizes available, including 10 inch square growing trays.

Growing Tray with Drainage Holes

You will need one growing tray with drainage holes for your kale microgreens. This tray will be placed inside a growing tray without drainage holes and will allow you to water your kale microgreens from the bottom to help reduce the risk of soilborne 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.

Growing Trays without Drainage Holes

You will need two growing trays without drainage holes for your kale microgreens. One tray will be used as a blackout, humidity dome. The other tray will be used to hold the water when you are watering from the bottom.

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.

Kale Microgreens Misting Bottle/Spray Can

A misting bottle or spray can allows you to gently water the seeds without disturbing the seed placement or any delicate roots that are developing.

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.

Kale Microgreens Light Source

A light source like a full spectrum LED grow light will provide your kale microgreens with consistent light so they can grow. Microgreens that are grown under a grow light have a larger, healthier harvest than those not grown under a grow light.

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) Kale Microgreens Heating Mat

A heating mat is optional; however, it can help improve the germination process and produce a larger crop.

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) Kale Microgreens Planting Rack

A planting rack allows you to grow your kale microgreens vertically to save on space. It also helps you to easily attach your kale grow lights, kale heating mat, and kale circulation fans.

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) Kale Microgreens Circulation Fans

Circulation fans are used to reduce the risk of soilborne diseases.

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

Kale Microgreen Seed Options

There are many different kale microgreen seed options available. Purchasing your seeds from a reputable company like True Leaf Market ensures a bountiful harvest. Here are the current kale microgreen seed offerings available.

Red Russian Kale Microgreen Seeds – Mountain Valley Seed Company's Red Russian kale microgreen seeds feature dark green leaves with beautiful red, pink, and purple variegated stems. These deliciously robust flavored kale microgreens are ready for harvest in 8 to 12 days.

Dwarf Siberian Kale Microgreen Seeds – Mountain Valley Seed Company's Dwarf Siberian kale microgreen seeds are cold-hardy and can be grown indoors during the winter. The sweet and nutty microgreen features pale green tops and white stems.

Kale Microgreen Seeds– Mountain Valley Seed Company's kale microgreen seeds are non-GMO and fast growing. These delicious seeds feature dark green leaves with reddish or bluish highlights.

White Russian Kale Microgreens Seeds– Mountain Valley Seed Company's White Russian kale microgreen seeds are ready in a mere 8 days. This cold tolerant flavorful kale microgreen is non-GMO and features green leaves on white stems.

Vates Blue Scotch Curled Kale Microgreen Seeds– Sustainable Seed Company's Vates Blue Scotch Curled kale microgreen seeds are organic and have a mild spinach flavor. This easy to grow kale microgreen is the perfect addition to your microgreen salads.

Black Tuscan AKA Lacinato or Dinosaur Organic Kale Microgreen Seeds – Sustainable Seed Company's Black Tuscan AKA Lacinato or Dinosaur kale microgreens feature a robust flavor that adds dimension and flavor to your favorite pasta and soup. This kale microgreen is ready in 8 to 12 days.

Vates Blue Scotch Curled Kale Microgreen Seeds – Mountain Valley Seed Company's Vates Blue Scotch Curled kale microgreen seeds are heirloom kale microgreens. The mild spinach flavor is perfect for a microgreen salad. Vates Blue Scotch is a robust kale variety that is ready in 8 to 12 days.

Black Tuscan AKA Lacinato or Dinosaur Kale Microgreen Seeds– Mountain Valley Seed Company's Black Tuscan AKA Lacinato or Dinosaur kale microgreen seeds are filled with flavor and nutrients. The non-GMO, heirloom seeds are ready for harvest within 12 days.

Step by Step Growing Guide for Kale Microgreens

Our step by step instructions on how to grow kale microgreens will ensure full germination and a large harvest.

Step 1 Prepare Your Growing Trays

The first step towards a successful harvest is preparing your kale microgreen growing trays. Begin by filling the tray with drainage holes to the top with your coconut coir or soilless seed starting medium. Use a piece of cardboard to gently press the soil down, ensuring it is evenly distributed across the entire surface of the soil.

Use your misting bottle to thoroughly soak your growing medium. Spray the soil, wait 10 minutes and spray again, repeating four or five times. If you prefer, you can place the tray in a sink with an inch or two of water in the bottom and allow it to soak for 30 minutes.

Once the soil is properly soaked, place your seed starting tray with drainage holes inside one of the growing trays without holes. This setup will allow you to water the soil from the bottom during the entire growth process. After your setup is complete, you will be ready to plant your kale microgreen seeds.

Step 2 Plant Your Microgreen Seeds

For each 10 inch by 20 inch microgreen seed starting tray, you will need approximately one ounce of seeds. Using a spice jar bottle with shaker lids like the ones sold here allows you to evenly disperse the seeds across the growing tray. When spreading out your kale microgreen seeds, make sure they are not on top of one another and extend all the way to the corners of your growing trays.

Once you have sewn your microgreen seeds, sprinkle a small amount of growing medium over the top of your seeds. Then, spray using your misting bottle. It will only take four or five full sprays across the entire surface to moisten the seeds and soil.

Place your microgreen tray on top of a heating mat. The ideal soil temperature for germination is around 70 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and ambient room temperature is between 65 degrees and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3 Understand the Germination Process

Seeds are typically planted in the earth where pressure and darkness force the seedlings to rise up through the soil toward the sunlight and moisture. We will mimic this by placing the final growing tray without drainage holes atop the seeds. Inverting the tray and pressing it against the soil will prevent light from reaching the seeds.

Grab a heavy book, a weight, or a heavy stone and place it on top of the inverted growing tray without drainage holes. Don't worry, the weight won't harm the seeds. In fact, it will strengthen the seedlings and ensure the roots grow downward.

Place your growing tray in a cool, dark place without drafts. On average, it will take your kale microgreens about 3 days to germinate. During the germination period, the kale microgreen seeds should not require any additional watering; however, you should check the moisture level daily.

Remember soil that is too moist is as bad as soil that is too dry. If the soil has dried out, use your misting bottle and spray across the entire tray. It should only take three to four full sprays to dampen the soil.

Once you have checked the soil moisture level and remoistened if needed, place the inverted tray back atop the seeds and weigh down using your weight, book, or heavy stone.

Step 4 Place Your Microgreens Under Grow Lights

After 90 percent of your kale microgreen seeds have germinated, it is time to remove the humidity and blackout cover. Check the soil moisture level and water from the bottom from now on to reduce the risk of root rot, mold, mildew, and other soilborne diseases.

Your kale microgreens need consistent full spectrum light for a bountiful harvest. Attach your full spectrum grow lights to your planting rack, ensuring the lights are approximately 12 inches from the tops of your kale microgreens. You will want to keep your grow lights on for at 12 to 18 hours each day.

Step 5 Turn on Your Circulation Fans

Circulation fans are used to minimize the risk of mold and other soilborne diseases. Attach your circulation fans to one side of your planting rack and turn on. To prevent the soil from drying out, make sure your circulation fans blow horizontally across only the tops of your kale microgreens.

Remember to water your kale microgreens daily using the bottom watering method. You want the foliage to remain dry; however, you want the roots to stay moist. Good airflow along with low humidity levels will reduce the risk of mold.

Step 6 Know When to Harvest Kale Microgreens

Your kale microgreens are ready to harvest in 8 to 12 days. On average, you will be able to harvest between 4 and 10 ounces of kale microgreens per growing tray. The microgreens are ready to be harvest when they are three to three and one half inches tall.

When your microgreens reach this height, you will want to avoid watering for 12 hours before harvesting. This will ensure your microgreens are dry and ready for harvest.

Harvesting Kale Microgreens

You will need a sharp knife or a sharp pair of scissors for harvesting your kale microgreens. Using a dull pair of scissors or a dull knife can bruise your microgreens and shorten their life expectancy. Additionally, make sure that your scissors or knife is clean and dry to avoid contamination.

Gently grasp your microgreens in your non-dominant hand and slice through the stems of the microgreens. For best results, cut about one quarter of an inch above soil level.

As you cut your microgreens, place them in a single layer on a clean, dry paper towel. The paper towel will absorb any excess dampness to increase the storage time of your kale microgreens.

Work quickly when harvesting your kale microgreens. Cut only one tray and then place them in the appropriate storage container to maximize their life expectancy.

Storing Kale Microgreens

Kale microgreens should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight storage container or storage bag. For best results, place the microgreens in the crisper and adjust the humidity level to low. When your kale microgreens are properly stored, they will last about one week.

If you plan to ship your microgreens, you will need to place the microgreens in clamshell storage containers and keep them cold throughout the shipping process. This can be done using an insulated box or pouch and a gel refrigerant pack like this one here.

Final Thoughts

Kale microgreens are delicious and nutritious. The brassica flavor is reminiscent of mustard greens, spinach, and broccoli and pairs wonderfully with other microgreens. Use them in a microgreen salad, or add them to your favorite sandwich, soup, or pasta.

Kale microgreens are one of the easiest microgreens to grow. They are the perfect choice for beginner microgreen gardeners. Follow our easy step by step directions to ensure a bountiful harvest.

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How To Grow Kale 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.