Lighting Up Success: How Proper Lighting Boosts Microgreens Growth

Why Lighting Matters for Microgreens

Light is the lifeblood of photosynthesis, the process that converts light energy into fuel for your microgreens. Without the right light conditions, even high-quality seeds will struggle to thrive. Let’s explore practical strategies to optimize lighting for your microgreens.

Natural Light vs. Artificial Light

Sunlight: A south-facing window offering 4-6 hours of direct sunlight is ideal. Rotate trays daily to ensure even growth.
Artificial Light: Compact fluorescent (CFL) or LED grow lights work best. Avoid incandescent bulbs—they emit heat but little usable light.

How Close Should Lights Be?

Keep LEDs or CFLs 2-4 inches above seedlings. Adjust height as plants grow, ensuring lights stay just above the top leaves. Use chains or adjustable clips for easy adjustments.

Timed Lighting for Consistent Growth

Microgreens need 12-16 hours of light daily. Use a timer to avoid under- or overwatering. Nighttime lets plants rest and prevents leggy growth from constant light.

Decoding Light Colors

Blue light (5200K) promotes sturdy growth; red light (2700K) boosts germination. Full-spectrum LEDs best mimic natural sunlight. Avoid ultraviolet bulbs—they can burn tender seedlings.

Common Lighting Mistakes to Avoid

• Overshadowing: Don’t place microgreens under tall plants or structures that block light.
• Lamppost Burn: Streetlights or porch lights create uneven growth and attract pests.
• Static Positioning: Move indoor trays daily to prevent one-sided growth toward light.

Try This Lighting Experiment

Split a batch of alfalfa microgreens: expose half to window light alone and half to window plus 6-8 hours of supplemental LED light. Note the healthier, more robust growth in the lit group. This simple test proves the value of proper lighting!

Bring Your Microgreens to Light

Whether using sunlight or grow lights, consistency is key. Monitor trays daily, adjust light height as needed, and watch your harvest grow brighter by the day. Remember, healthy light = happy greens!