Place trays of microgreens under LED lights for 12–16 hours daily, keep lights 12–18 inches above plants, and maintain moist soil. LED lights provide full-spectrum light for healthy indoor growth.
Why Use LED Lights
Growing microgreens under LED lights is perfect for indoor spaces with limited sunlight. LEDs are energy-efficient, produce minimal heat, and provide consistent light for uniform growth. They allow control over intensity, duration, and spectrum, ensuring strong stems, vibrant leaves, and faster germination. Indoor LED growth is ideal for apartments, offices, or urban environments where natural light is insufficient. Full-spectrum LEDs mimic sunlight, promoting photosynthesis and higher yields.
Choosing the Right LED Lights
Light spectrum is important. Full-spectrum white LEDs mimic natural sunlight. Red spectrum promotes stem growth, while blue spectrum supports leaf development. Maintain LED lights 12–18 inches above microgreens to prevent burning or leggy growth. Provide 12–16 hours of light daily using a timer for consistency. For multiple trays, rotate them if the light panel is small to ensure even growth.
Preparing Trays for LED Growth
Fill trays with a light, well-draining soil mix like coco coir, compost, and perlite. Spread seeds evenly and press lightly. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Even distribution is crucial because LED light is fixed and won’t move like sunlight.
Watering and Care Under LED Lights
Water lightly once or twice daily using a spray bottle. Avoid overwatering, which can cause mold. Monitor soil moisture closely as artificial lights can dry soil faster than natural sunlight. Ensure proper airflow with a small fan to reduce humidity and prevent fungal growth.
Light Cycle Tips
- Use a timer to maintain consistent 12–16 hour light cycles
- Observe seedlings: if they grow tall and thin, increase light intensity or reduce distance between light and plants
- Adjust LED height as microgreens grow to maintain optimal distance
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Leggy Growth: Reduce distance between light and plants, increase intensity, or add reflective surfaces around trays.
- Yellowing Leaves: Could indicate overwatering, poor soil nutrients, or insufficient light intensity.
- Mold: Avoid waterlogging and improve airflow.
Using LED-Grown Microgreens
Microgreens grown under LEDs have similar taste, nutrition, and texture as sunlight-grown greens. Harvest when blades reach 1.5–2 inches or more depending on the variety. Use for juices, salads, sandwiches, or garnishing meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use regular household lights for microgreens?
No, standard lights do not provide the full spectrum necessary for photosynthesis.
Q2: How far should LED lights be from microgreens?
12–18 inches above the plants is optimal to prevent burning or leggy growth.
Q3: How long should microgreens be under LED lights?
12–16 hours daily is ideal. Use a timer for consistency.
Q4: Do I need to water microgreens differently under LED lights?
Yes, check soil daily as LEDs can dry soil faster; mist lightly once or twice a day.
Q5: Can I grow all microgreen varieties under LED lights?
Most varieties thrive, including radish, sunflower, broccoli, mustard, and pea shoots.
Final Thoughts
Growing microgreens under LED lights is efficient, flexible, and yields healthy, vibrant sprouts year-round. With proper soil, light intensity, consistent watering, and airflow, indoor growers can enjoy fresh, nutritious microgreens regardless of sunlight availability. Regular monitoring and minor adjustments ensure maximum growth, flavor, and nutritional value.