How to Grow Microgreens in Low Light Conditions

Dim Light, Bright Greens: Your Guide to Growing Microgreens in Low Light Conditions

July 6, 2023 by Andrew Neves Growing

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My friend Marty lives in the heart of bustling Manhattan in New York City, where towering buildings cast long shadows and sunlight is a rare commodity. He has a thriving small urban garden nestled on a windowsill, and a tray of microgreens basks in the soft, diffused light filtering through the glass. These tiny, vibrant plants are a testament to resilience, a symbol of life’s tenacity in less-than-ideal conditions. Welcome to the fascinating world of growing microgreens in low-light conditions.

Their intense flavors and nutritional punch have made microgreens a favorite among gourmet chefs and health-conscious consumers. But what if you’re an urban dweller living in an apartment with limited access to sunlight? Can you still join the microgreens revolution? The answer is a resounding yes!

Growing microgreens in low light conditions involve selecting light-tolerant varieties, such as kale or mustard, and providing supplemental light if necessary. Optimal light conditions for microgreens generally range from 50 to 200 µmol/m²/s, but these plants can adapt to lower light intensities.

Growing microgreens in low light conditions may seem like a daunting task. After all, don’t plants need sunlight to photosynthesize and grow? While it’s true that light plays a crucial role in plant growth, microgreens are surprisingly adaptable. They’ll be able to cope with a broad range of lighting conditions, such as dim or low light.

In this post, I’ll dig into the art and science of growing microgreens in low-light conditions. We’ll explore how these tiny plants thrive in less-than-ideal lighting conditions and share tips and techniques for cultivating your low-light microgreens garden. Whether you’re a seasoned urban gardener or a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of microgreens, this guide is for you.

So, let’s embark on this exciting journey together and discover how to turn a dimly lit corner of your home into a thriving microgreens garden.

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QUICK READS

Microgreens in Low Light Conditions
Understanding Light and Microgreens
Exploring the Role of Light in Plant Growth
Choosing the Right Microgreens for Low Light Conditions
The Challenge of Low Light Conditions
Practical Steps to Grow Microgreens in Low Light Conditions
Mastering Microgreen Growth in Low-Light Conditions
Related Questions
References

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Microgreens in Low Light Conditions

The concept of growing plants in low-light conditions has been a topic of interest for many years, especially in the realm of indoor gardening and urban agriculture. This interest has only increased with the rise of microgreens cultivation. This practice allows for the growth of nutrient-dense greens in small spaces, often within the confines of city apartments or homes with limited natural light.

Microgreens have gained popularity due to their high nutritional content and versatility in culinary applications. They are typically harvested just after the first true leaves have developed, a stage where they are packed with concentrated nutrients. However, like all plants, microgreens require specific conditions, and light is one of the most crucial factors.

The role of light in photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy that fuels their growth. Different plants have different light requirements, which is valid for microgreens. Some microgreens can tolerate low light conditions better than others, but understanding how light affects plant growth can help optimize microgreens’ cultivation.

In indoor gardening, ‘low light’ doesn’t necessarily mean no light. It refers to conditions that receive less direct sunlight or artificial light than a plant would typically receive outdoors. This could be due to factors such as the orientation of windows, the presence of shades or blinds, or the use of artificial lights with lower light intensity.

Understanding the light requirements of microgreens is crucial for successful cultivation, especially in low-light conditions. It involves not only knowing the amount of light your microgreens need but also understanding the quality of light, including aspects like light spectrum and duration.

In the following sections, we will review how to grow microgreens in low light conditions, discussing the science behind light requirements, the best microgreen varieties for low light, and practical tips for successful cultivation.

Whether you’re a seasoned grower or a beginner, this guide provides all the information necessary to cultivate nutritional microgreens in environments that are not optimal for their cultivation but still provide optimum light conditions.

Recommended Products for Microgreens Lighting

For those of you who are ready to dive into the world of microgreens and optimize your lighting setup, I have a couple of recommendations.

The Roleadro LED Grow Light is available on Amazon. This is a full-spectrum grow light that is perfect for indoor plants. It has a high output of light that is perfect for microgreens.
The Hydrofarm Agrobrite FLT24 T5 Fluorescent is available on Amazon for 57% off! This is a compact fluorescent system that provides high output and performance. It’s ideal for nurturing microgreens.
The Phlizon Newest 600W LED Plant Grow Light is available on Amazon. This LED light comes with a double switch for vegetable and flower growth stages, making it versatile for growing microgreens.

Light meters are another important resource. For the experienced home gardener or grower, the ST6813 Portable Digital LCD Illuminance Meter, with a range of up to 100000, works great too, and is available here on Amazon.

Remember, proper lighting is vital to successful microgreen growth. These products will help you achieve your microgreen growing goals.

Growing radish microgreens at home, healthy eating concept.

Understanding Light and Microgreens

Light is a critical factor in photosynthesis. It is how plants, including microgreens, convert light into chemical energy to fuel their growth. Different plants have different light requirements, and microgreens are no exception. They prefer bright, indirect light, but some varieties tolerate lower light conditions. Understanding the specific light requirements of the microgreens you’re growing is crucial. For instance, spinach and kale microgreens can tolerate lower light levels, while others prefer brighter conditions, like sunflower and radish microgreens.

Some people prefer the milder flavor of microgreens grown in low light.

Low Light Conditions and Their Effects

Low light conditions can affect the growth and development of microgreens. They may grow slower and have elongated stems and lighter-colored leaves – a condition known as etiolation. However, this doesn’t mean they’re unhealthy or inedible. Some people prefer the milder flavor of microgreens grown in low light.

Techniques for Growing Microgreens in Low Light

If you’re dealing with low light conditions, there are several techniques you can employ. One is to choose microgreen varieties that are more tolerant of low light. Another is to use reflective materials around your growing area to maximize the use of available light. Artificial lighting can also be added to natural light. It is an excellent choice because LED grows are energy efficient, providing the whole spectrum of light plants need. They can supplement natural light or as the primary light source without natural light.

Maintaining Microgreens in Low Light

Proper care and maintenance are essential when growing microgreens in low light. Regularly rotate your microgreens to ensure they get even exposure to light. Also, be mindful of watering, as low light conditions can slow evaporation, increasing the risk of overwatering.

While low light conditions can pose challenges, they don’t have to stop you from growing your microgreens. You can grow microgreens even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions with the proper knowledge and techniques.

New life plant. Closeup of basil microgreens

Exploring the Role of Light in Plant Growth

Understanding the role of lights in plant growth is necessary before taking a more detailed look at specific strategies to grow microgreens under dim lighting conditions. Light is a critical factor for photosynthesis, the process of plants converting light into synthetic energy to feed their growth.

Different wavelengths of light, represented by different colors, have varying effects on plant growth. Blue light, for example, is crucial for promoting leafy growth, while red light encourages flowering and fruiting. Blue light is vital for microgreens, which are harvested before they flower.

However, it’s not just the color of light that matters. The intensity and duration of light exposure also play significant roles in plant growth. Too little light can lead to weak, leggy plants, while too much light can cause plants to burn or dry out.

You can read my in-depth guide and explore microgreens lighting, “Shedding Light on Microgreens: A Comprehensive Guide to Microgreens Lighting Requirements

Choosing the Right Microgreens for Low Light Conditions

Choosing seeds can make a significant difference when growing microgreens in low-light conditions. Some microgreens are more tolerant of low light conditions than others. For instance, kale, spinach, and mustard greens can grow well even with less light. These microgreens are resilient and packed with nutrients, making them an excellent choice for indoor gardening.

On the other hand, microgreens like sunflowers and radishes typically require more light to thrive. They may still grow in low light conditions, but their growth may be stunted and not reach their full nutritional potential. Therefore, understanding the light requirements of different microgreens can help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of success.

Maximizing Light Exposure in Low Light Conditions

Even in low light conditions, there are ways to maximize light exposure for your microgreens. One effective strategy is to use reflective materials around your growing area. Reflective materials like Mylar can help bounce light around, ensuring your microgreens receive light from all angles. This can be particularly beneficial in indoor settings where natural light is limited.

Another strategy is to rotate your microgreens regularly. This ensures all plant parts receive equal light exposure, promoting even growth. Regular rotation can prevent microgreens from leaning towards the light source, a common occurrence known as phototropism.

Supplementing Natural Light with Artificial Light

In situations where natural light is insufficient, artificial light can be a lifesaver. Grow lights, mainly LED grow lights, are an excellent choice for indoor gardening. They provide the full spectrum of light plants need, are energy-efficient, and can be adjusted to provide the right light intensity.

When using grow lights, you must consider the distance between the light source and your microgreens. Too close, and you risk burning your plants. Too far, and your microgreens may need more light.

A general rule of thumb is to keep the grow lights about 6-12 inches above your microgreens.

The Challenge of Low Light Conditions

Low light conditions can pose a unique set of challenges for growing microgreens. Microgreens may grow slowly with adequate light, produce fewer leaves, and have a more robust flavor. They may also become leggy, stretching towards the light source and resulting in thin, weak stems.

However, these challenges don’t mean that growing microgreens in low-light conditions is impossible. It simply means that growers must be more strategic and attentive.

Adapting Your Growing Practices for Low Light Conditions

One of the most effective ways to adapt to low light conditions is to adjust your growing practices. This could involve extending the duration of light exposure, using light-reflective materials to maximize available light, or supplementing with artificial light sources.

When extending light exposure, it’s important to remember that plants also need periods of darkness to rest and carry out other biological processes. A common practice is to provide 16 hours of light followed by 8 hours of darkness.

Using light-reflective materials can help distribute light more evenly among your microgreens. This can be particularly beneficial in indoor growing setups where light comes from a single direction.

Supplementing with artificial light sources, such as LED grow lights, can give your microgreens the necessary light they need to thrive. These lights can be adjusted to provide the right color spectrum and intensity, making them a versatile tool for indoor gardening.

Monitoring and Adjusting Your Approach

Growing microgreens in low light conditions require careful monitoring and adjustment. Regularly check your microgreens for signs of light stress, such as yellowing leaves or leggy growth. If you notice these signs, adjust your light source or consider introducing a supplemental light source.

Remember, every growing environment is unique, and what works for one setup may not work for another. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your specific situation.

With careful planning and a bit of creativity, growing microgreens in low-light conditions can be a rewarding experience. It can yield a fresh supply of nutritious greens and provide valuable insights into the fascinating world of plant growth and light dynamics.

Practical Steps to Grow Microgreens in Low Light Conditions

Now that we’ve explored the science behind light’s role in plant growth and the specific challenges of low light conditions, let’s turn our attention to practical applications. Here are some actionable steps to successfully grow microgreens in low-light conditions.

Step 1: Choose the Right Microgreens

Firstly, it’s essential to choose the right microgreens. Some varieties are more tolerant of low light conditions than others. For instance, mustard greens, kale, and arugula generally tolerate lower light levels than other varieties. Do some research and choose varieties known for their adaptability to low-light conditions.

Step 2: Optimize Your Light Source

Next, optimize your light source. If you rely on natural light, place your microgreens near a south-facing window in the northern hemisphere (or a north-facing window in the southern hemisphere). This will ensure they receive the most light possible throughout the day.

If natural light is insufficient, consider supplementing with artificial light. LED grow lights are a popular choice due to their efficiency and the fact that they don’t produce much heat. They also allow you to control the color spectrum, benefiting microgreens growth.

Step 3: Use Reflective Materials

Use reflective materials around your growing area to maximize your light source. This could be as simple as placing aluminum foil or a white sheet around your microgreens to reflect light back onto the plants. There are also reflective films available specifically for this purpose in gardening stores.

Step 4: Monitor and Adjust

Finally, monitor your microgreens closely and adjust your approach as needed. If your microgreens are growing tall and thin (a condition known as “stretching”), it’s a sign they’re not getting enough light. In this case, you may need to move them closer to the light source or increase the duration of light exposure.

Remember, growing microgreens in low light conditions is an experiment. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. You’ll learn what works best for your situation with patience and persistence.

If you follow these steps, it will be possible to turn your challenge of low light conditions into an opportunity for raising healthy and delicious microgreens at home. Whether you’re an urban dweller with limited natural light, a sustainability advocate looking for indoor gardening solutions, or a gourmet chef wanting fresh greens at your fingertips, growing microgreens in low light conditions is a skill worth mastering.

Mastering Microgreen Growth in Low-Light Conditions

Growing microgreens in low light conditions may require more effort and consideration, but it’s possible.

Understanding and managing light conditions is crucial for successful microgreen cultivation, especially in low-light situations. We’ve explored the importance of light in photosynthesis, the challenges of growing plants in low-light conditions, and the specific light requirements of microgreens. We’ve also delved into the science of light spectrum and its impact on plant growth.

We’ve learned that while low light conditions present challenges, they are not insurmountable. You can grow microgreens even in less-than-ideal light conditions by choosing suitable microgreen varieties, optimizing your light source, using reflective materials, and closely monitoring your plants.

Remember, growing microgreens is as much an art as a science. It requires patience, observation, and a willingness to experiment and learn. But the rewards – fresh, nutritious greens you’ve grown – are well worth the effort.

So, why not give it a try? Start your microgreens journey today. Apply the knowledge you’ve gained from this post, and discover the joy and satisfaction of growing your own microgreens, even in low-light conditions. Happy growing!

References

Samuolienė, Giedrė, et al. “LED Irradiance Level Affects Growth and Nutritional Quality of Brassica Microgreens.” Open Life Sciences, vol. 8, no. 12, 1 Jan. 2013, https://doi.org/10.2478/s11535-013-0246-1.
“THE IMPACT of SUPPLEMENTARY SHORT-TERM RED LED LIGHTING on the ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES of MICROGREENS.” Www.actahort.org, www.actahort.org/books/956/956_78.htm. Accessed 6 July 2023.
Schramma, Nico, et al. “Chloroplasts in Plant Cells Show Active Glassy Behavior under Low-Light Conditions.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 120, no. 3, 13 Jan. 2023, https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2216497120. Accessed 21 Feb. 2023.

This research discusses the behavior of chloroplasts under low light conditions, which is crucial for understanding the impact of light on microgreen growth.

Kholmanskiy, Alexander, and Nataliya Zaytseva. “Dependence of Chlorophyll Content in Leaves from Light Regime, Electromagnetic Fields and Plant Species.” ArXiv.org, 27 Feb. 2020, https://arxiv.org/abs/2002.12784. Accessed 6 July 2023.

This study explores the relationship between light and chlorophyll content in various plants, which is relevant to the nutritional value of microgreens.

Lork, Clement, et al. “Minimizing Electricity Cost through Smart Lighting Control for Indoor Plant Factories.” ArXiv.org, 4 Aug. 2020, https://arxiv.org/abs/2008.01325. Accessed 6 July 2023.

‌This paper investigates lettuce growth under LED horticulture lighting and proposes an optimization algorithm for lighting schedules, which can be applied to microgreens.

Viršilė, A and Sirtautas, R. “Light irradiance level for optimal growth and nutrient contents in borage microgreens.” RURAL DEVELOPMENT 2013, 2013, researchgate.net, https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Galina-Chupakhina/publication/286459213_PROCEEDINGS_1/links/566b3d7108ae430ab4f9b32b/PROCEEDINGS-1.pdf#page=281
Xiao, Z, Lester, GE, Luo, Y, Xie, ZK, Yu, LL and Wang, Q. “Effect of light exposure on sensorial quality, concentrations of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity of radish microgreens during low-temperature storage.” Food Chemistry, 2014, Elsevier, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814613017238
Kyriacou, Marios C., et al. “Micro-Scale Vegetable Production and the Rise of Microgreens.” Trends in Food Science & Technology, vol. 57, Nov. 2016, pp. 103–115, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2016.09.005.