Growing Guides Microgreens

How to Grow Curled Cress Microgreens

Tray Growing (Recommended)

While jar (sprouting) growing is possible, we recommend using the tray method with a growing medium for best results. Tray growing produces stronger, healthier microgreens with better yield and consistency.

• 1. Do Not Soak Seeds
  Curled cress seeds should not be soaked before sowing. When wet, they produce a natural gel that can cause clumping.
• 2. Prepare a Tray and Growing Medium
  Use a shallow growing tray, no more than 2 inches deep. Fill it with 1 to 2 inches of moistened seed-starting mix or another fine growing medium.
• 3. Sow the Seeds
  Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the surface. Do not bury them. Mist lightly to moisten without flooding or washing the seeds together.
• 4. Germinate
  Keep the tray in a warm area, around 70°F, away from direct sunlight during germination. Maintain light, even moisture. Avoid overwatering, since cress seeds hold moisture easily once wet.
• 5. Grow On
  After sprouting, move the tray into bright light or provide at least 10 to 12 hours of light per day. Water carefully, preferably from the bottom or around the tray edges, to avoid disturbing the delicate greens.
• 6. Harvest
  Curled cress microgreens are usually ready in about 7 to 10 days. Harvest when they are 1 to 2 inches tall and still tender. Cut just above the surface with clean scissors or a sharp knife.

Jar Growing (Alternative / Sprouting Method)

Curled cress seeds produce a natural gel (mucilage) when wet. This makes jar growing more difficult and increases the risk of poor results.

While jar (sprouting) growing is possible, we recommend using the tray method with a growing medium for best results. Tray growing produces stronger, healthier microgreens with better yield and consistency.

• 1. Do Not Soak Seeds
  Do not soak curled cress seeds. Once wet, they quickly become gelatinous and may stick together.
• 2. Use a Small Amount of Seed
  Add only a small amount of dry seed to a clean sprouting jar with a mesh lid or sprouting screen.
• 3. Rinse Very Gently
  Rinse carefully and drain thoroughly. Too much water can cause the seeds to clump and reduce airflow.
• 4. Keep the Jar Tilted
  Store the jar upside down at an angle so excess moisture can drain away completely after each rinse.
• 5. Expect More Difficulty
  Because of the natural mucilage, jar growing may lead to uneven sprouting and a higher risk of poor performance compared to tray growing.
• 6. Harvest as Sprouts
  If successful, harvest at the sprout stage. Do not expect the same size, yield, or leafy growth as tray-grown curled cress microgreens.

Growing Tips

• Curled cress seeds are mucilaginous, so use a gentle hand with water at every stage.
• Watering from the edges or bottom of the tray helps avoid disturbing the seedlings and keeps the canopy cleaner.
• Curled cress can be harvested at the microgreen stage in about 7 to 10 days, or grown a little longer for a more developed appearance and flavor.
• Use a sharp knife or scissors for a clean harvest and to avoid pulling up growing medium or seed husks.
• For longer storage, keep harvested microgreens dry and unwashed in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Wash only before use if needed.