Microgreens Troubleshooting guide

Small adjustments can make all the difference.

Growing microgreens is simple, but every growing environment is slightly different. Temperature, airflow, light and moisture can all influence how your microgreens develop.

If something does not look quite right, it does not always mean the grow has failed. Often, a small adjustment is all that is needed.

White Fuzz: Mould or Root Hairs?

Fine white hairs around the roots are often mistaken for mould.

Root hairs usually appear evenly around individual roots and are most noticeable when the growing surface begins to dry. They often become much less visible after watering.

Mould tends to spread irregularly across seeds or the growing surface and may appear web-like or develop an unpleasant smell.

When in doubt, do not consume anything that appears spoiled or mouldy.

Seeds Are Not Germinating

Uneven or poor germination can have several causes.

Check that the growing mat was thoroughly moistened before sowing and remained consistently moist during germination. A mat that dries out can interrupt germination, while excessive water can create equally difficult conditions.

Temperature can also influence germination, particularly with more sensitive varieties such as Basil, Dill and Red Amaranth.

Always check the individual Variety Guide for soaking and growing requirements.

Growth Is Uneven

Some variation is completely natural, but noticeably uneven growth can result from uneven sowing, moisture or light.

Spread seeds as evenly as possible across the growing surface and make sure the entire mat receives moisture.

Once uncovered, rotate the tray if one side receives noticeably more light than the other.

Microgreens Are Tall and Leggy

Long, thin stems usually indicate that the young plants are reaching for more light.

Move the tray to a brighter location or adjust your grow light so the plants receive sufficient light once they have been uncovered.

Healthy microgreens should generally develop upright stems and well-opened leaves rather than continuously stretching.

Leaves Are Yellow

Yellow shoots immediately after the blackout stage are usually normal.

Without light, seedlings cannot develop their full green colour. Once uncovered and exposed to adequate light, many varieties begin changing colour relatively quickly.

Persistent pale or yellow growth later in development may indicate insufficient light or another growing issue.

The Growing Mat Is Too Dry

A dry mat can cause seedlings to wilt and interrupt healthy growth.

Check moisture regularly, particularly in warmer conditions or once the roots and foliage become more established.

After the roots have developed, bottom watering allows the mat to absorb moisture from underneath without repeatedly wetting the leaves.

The Growing Mat Is Too Wet

More water does not mean better growth.

A constantly saturated mat can reduce airflow around the roots and create conditions that favour unwanted microbial growth.

The mat should remain moist rather than waterlogged. If water remains standing in the bottom tray for long periods, reduce the amount used.

Microgreens Are Falling Over

Young plants may begin to fall over if they are too dry, too wet, overcrowded or not receiving enough light.

Check the growing mat first. If moisture is appropriate, consider airflow, light and seed density.

Some delicate varieties naturally have finer stems than others, so compare growth with the characteristics described in the individual Variety Guide.

Seed Hulls Are Stuck to the Leaves

Seed hulls sometimes remain attached as the cotyledons open.

Maintaining adequate moisture during germination can help soften the hulls. Many will fall away naturally as the plants continue developing.

Avoid aggressively pulling at delicate seedlings simply to remove them.

There Is an Unpleasant Smell

Healthy microgreens should smell fresh.

A sour, rotten or otherwise unpleasant smell can indicate excessive moisture, poor airflow or spoilage.

Do not taste or consume microgreens that smell spoiled or show clear signs of mould or deterioration. Discard the grow, thoroughly clean the equipment and begin again with fresh materials.

Growth Seems Slow

Not every variety grows at the same speed.

Radish may be ready relatively quickly, while Basil, Dill and other slower varieties require considerably more patience.

Temperature and light can also influence development. Use the individual Variety Guide and the appearance of the plants rather than expecting every tray to follow exactly the same timeline.

Prevention Starts Before Sowing

Begin each growing cycle with clean hands, clean trays and fresh growing materials.

Use the recommended seed quantity, provide appropriate moisture and maintain good airflow throughout the growing cycle.

Small, consistent habits usually make the biggest difference.

Still Unsure?

Use the individual Variety Guides for variety-specific growing information, the Seed Density Calculator for recommended sowing quantities and the Microgreens Growing Guide for the complete growing process.

Growing is something you learn by doing. Each tray teaches you a little more about the conditions that work best in your own home.

Observe. Adjust. Grow again.