MICROGREEN Pea Seeds
Botanical name: Pisum sativum
Pea sprouts are sweet and tender as sprouting increases their sugar content. They are very nutritious; a good source of vitamins A, C and K; and minerals calcium, chlorophyll, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, amino acids and protein (20 – 25%). It is best to pre-sprout them until tiny roots appear. Then grow them in a seedling tray filled with organic potting mix or sieved compost. The best temperature for sprouting peas is 15 – 25°C; avoid hot weather. The pea shoots will take 10 – 14 days.
How to Grow Pea Seeds as Microgreens
- Grow in organic soil, coir peat or hydroponically.
- Pre-soak 25 – 40 grams of seeds in cool water for 4 – 8 hours (to suit a small, punnet sized growing tray). Soak seeds overnight if growing hydroponically.
- Ensure that you soak these seeds in plenty of water as they will double in size during the pre-soak stage.
- The ideal growing temperature is 15 – 25 °C. Avoid growing in extreme heat or cold conditions. In extreme heat, you may have issues with mould and uneven and slow germination.
- Add 2 – 3 cm of soil or coir peat to your growing tray. Mix nutrients into your growing medium such as compost or vermiculite. Use a tray or small block of wood to flatten the soil. Lightly water soil. Sprinkle seeds over the surface of the soil and ensure that seeds do not overlap. Overcrowding leads to problems with mould or rot. Lightly water using a spray mist bottle.
- Cover your seeds with a growing tray and store in a well ventilated, cool spot. Some growers cover their seeds with a light layer of soil. During the germination phase, seeds should not be exposed to light. Water 1 – 2 times daily. Keep covered for 2 – 3 days.
- Remove top tray and expose the plant to light. Water twice daily, and do not overwater. Ready to harvest in 10 – 14 days.
