How To Grow Pea Microgreens (FAQ’s, Benefits, Pests)

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Microgreens are a great way to grow your vegetables without the need to have a spacious garden. Microgreens contain a lot of nutrients and save you the occasional trip to the grocery for extra greens on your salad. This article will talk about how to grow pea microgreens.

Peas or Green Peas have a lot of health benefits. They are high in vitamins and antioxidants that help flush out harmful toxins out of your body. They are also a great source of protein and can help manage your blood sugar level.

One of the healthiest and tastiest microgreens you can grow is pea shoots. Pea shoots have a mild flavor profile. The most common way to eat Pea Microgreens is by adding them raw as a salad or cooking them as a stir-fry.

If you would like to know how to grow Pea Microgreens at your home, you can simply follow the steps below. Growing Pea Microgreens are simple and do not require a lot of garden space. There are also different growing mediums you can use for growing your Pea Microgreens.

Equipment Needed to Grow Pea Microgreens

People who are new to growing microgreens can always start small. Growing Pea Microgreens are simple, and you do not need a lot of equipment to start planting.

Below are some of the equipment you need for growing Pea Microgreens:

  • Shallow Containers or Seeding Tray – it does not have to be a seeding tray. Any container that can hold some soil and water will work well with Pea Microgreens. Other container ideas are clay pots and salad containers. You need to punch holes in this container for drainage.
  • Watering Can or Spray bottle–a key factor in growing Microgreens is giving enough water. You can use a spray bottle, or a small watering can make sure your Microgreens are well watered.
  • Oscillating fan or any form of ventilation -not having proper ventilation can cause pests and promote the growth of mold and bacteria on your plant. Buying a normal fan or providing any ventilation is important for keeping your plants healthy.
  • Organic Premium Soil– Soil is one of the most common growing mediums you can use when growing Pea Microgreens. Make sure to buy high-quality soil to prevent any diseases to your plant.
  • Sawdust or Wood Shavings– another growing medium you can use are sawdust or wood shavings. You can use normal wood shavings used for small pets.
  • Seed Paper Sheets or Growing papers – you can also use growing papers to plant your Pea Microgreens.
  • Sunlight or Growing Light – Even though Microgreens are small and easy to sprout, Pea Microgreens needs Sunlight or a growing light to grow. You can use normal LED lights as well as long as they are emitting enough warmth.
  • Pea Microgreen Seeds – Before growing your Pea Microgreens, you need Pea Microgreen Seeds. Make sure you are buying from a trusted seller to prevent any plant diseases.
  • Plastic Wraps– plastic wraps or any type of cover are helpful during the germination process of your microgreens.
  • Growing Mat – Growing Mats is another type of growing medium that you can use to grow your Pea Microgreens.

How to Grow Pea Microgreens in Soil?

Step 1 – Soak Your Pea Microgreen Seeds

Before planting your Pea Microgreen Seeds, they need to soak and double in size first. For 2 cups of Pea Shoot Seeds, you need 4 cups of water. Keep a ratio of 1:2 and use clean water to soak the seeds.

Leave the seeds in the water for eight hours to a day, they will double in size after a few hours.

Step 2 – Spread Your Soil

After soaking your seeds, it is time to prepare your soil. On a shallow container with drainage holes, spread your good-quality planting soil. The soil should only be one inch thick and should be shallow.

Step 3 – Sprinkle The Seeds

After spreading your soil, drain the water from your pea seeds. Sprinkle the seeds all over the tray. Make sure you spread the seeds evenly and they are all in one layer. After sprinkling the seeds, grab your watering can or spray bottle to mist the soil.

Mist the seeds carefully, make sure the soil is damp, not soaking wet.

Step 4 – Cover and Spray

After misting the seeds, use a cover and mist that as well. Cover the tray and place them in a warm and dark place. Spray the cover every day until the seeds germinate, especially if you are living in a humid place.

Step 5 – Watering After Germination

After just two or three days, your seeds would have germinated. Use your thumb to check if you need to water the microgreens. Press your thumb on the soil and if it comes out dry, go ahead and water them.

Keep on watering your Microgreens for 7 to 10 days. You also need to give natural light or growing light to your plants by this time.

Step 6 – Harvesting your Pea Microgreens

After a few days, your Pea Microgreens are ready for harvesting. To know when your Pea Microgreens are ready for harvesting, check if they have grown six to ten inches tall. You can use sharp kitchen shears and cut one or two inches above the soil.

How to Grow Pea Microgreens with A Grow Mat?

Growing Mats are usually an organic method of growing Pea Microgreens. However, they can be more expensive than planting soil. Another benefit of using a Grow Mat is that it does not cause a mess in your home.

Step 1 – Soak Your Seeds

While soaking your Pea Microgreens is not necessary, they can help improve germination. You can also choose to spray your seeds instead to make sure they are wet before planting.

Step 2 – Prepare The Container And Growing Mat

If you have a leftover salad container, they work well with a Growing Mat. Cut your Growing Mat into appropriate sizes so they can fit inside your container. Soak your Growing Mat before planting your seeds.

Step 3 – Spread The Seeds And Cover

Spread the Seeds all over the container in an even manner. Make sure they are not on top of one another. After spreading the seeds, place a cover on the container and a plastic wrap to keep the moisture of the growing mat.

Step 4- Provide Light

Keep the seeds in a warm room, preferably a room with a temperature of 70F. Do not let any light inside the container. After two to three days, the seeds will germinate, and you can start providing light.

Uncover your seeds and place them somewhere with a light source. You can use an LED Growing Light or natural sunlight if you have a humid place.

Step 5- Watering The Seeds

If you are growing Pea Microgreens in a humid area, you may need to water the seeds more often. Otherwise, keep an eye out on the soil and just make sure they are moist every day but not soaking wet.

Step 6 – Harvest the Microgreen

After two weeks, your Pea Microgreens will be ready for harvesting. You can also harvest them earlier. The best time to harvest your Pea Microgreens is if they are six to ten inches tall.

To harvest your Pea Microgreens, use kitchen shears and cut the Microgreens one to two inches above the soil.

How to Grow Pea Microgreens in Wood Shavings?

Wood Shavings or Coconut Fiber is another growing medium that is highly recommended for growing your Microgreens. Wood Shavings that can be found on pet store works as well when it comes to using this as a growing medium.

Step 1 – Soak your Seeds

As with every other growing medium, before planting, you should soak your Pea Microgreen Seeds first. Pea Microgreens are bigger seeds compared to others and soaking them beforehand helps improve germination.

Step 2 – Moisten the shavings

After soaking your seed, you can now prepare your container. Get a shallow container and add the fine wood shavings. You can also moisten them beforehand. Otherwise, spray the shavings with water to keep them moist.

Step 3 – Sow the Seeds

After filling up your container with enough moist wooden shavings, you can now scatter your seeds evenly. Cover the container and let it germinate for two to three days in a warm and dark place.

Step 4 – Provide Light and Water

Keep the wood shavings moist during the germination process. After three days, your Pea Microgreens should have germinated. Uncover the container and provide an LED Growing light or natural sunlight.

After providing sunlight, keep the wood shavings moist by watering them every day. However, do not overwater or else it might promote pests and diseases.

Step 5 – Harvesting

After two weeks, your Pea Microgreens should be ready for harvest. The ideal day for harvesting is around 6 to 14 days. You can use scissors and cut the Pea Microgreens an inch or two above the soil.

How to Grow Pea Microgreens on Growing Paper?

Lastly, Pea Microgreens can also be grown on a Growing Paper. Growing Papers retain moisture for longer and do not make a mess. This growing medium is perfect for people who are growing Microgreens indoors.

Step 1 – Soak your Seeds

Before scattering your seeds, they need to soak in water first. Pea Microgreens need soaking in water for at least 8-12 hours before you plant them. You can also soak them for one day so they can double in size.

Step 2 – Prepare your Container and Paper

Most Growing Papers come in large sizes. You may need to cut them up so they can fit inside your container. Make sure to moisten up the growing paper before scattering your seeds.

Step 3 – Sow your Seeds and Cover

Once your container and Growing Paper are ready, you can now sow your seeds. Scatter them evenly and then cover your container. Make sure that there is no light coming inside the container. Keep the seeds in a humid and dark place.

Step 4 – Providing Light

The germination process will last for two to three days. Afterward, you can remove the cover and put the Pea Microgreens under a light source. You can use both LED light and natural sunlight.     

Step 5 – Observe and Water

Always observe your Microgreens after the Germination process. Growing Paper can maintain moisture for longer. However, misting them whenever they become dry is key to keep your plants healthy.

Step 6 – Harvesting

As soon as the first two leaves become Microgreens, you can harvest the Pea Microgreens. Ideally, you can harvest them from 6 to 14 days. Cut the Pea Microgreens an inch or two above the soil.

How Can You Speed Up Growth?

Microgreens grow relatively quickly. Most Microgreens can be harvested after two weeks. However, you can speed up the growth of your Microgreens by keeping your growing medium moist.

The Pea Microgreens also need soaking beforehand. Soaking your Pea Microgreen help improve their germination rate. However, do not soak the seed longer than 24 hours.

Another way you can speed up the growth of your Microgreens is by adjusting their temperature. Keeping your Pea Microgreens warm will help them grow faster.

What Are the Benefits of Eating Pea Microgreens?

Pea Microgreens are a great source of Vitamins and Minerals. They are a good source of Fiber and Protein that is necessary for your health.

A Great Source Of Vitamin C

Pea Microgreens are a great source of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is responsible for the bone repair and healing of your wounds. Aside from this, Vitamin C helps strengthen your immune system to reduce your chance of contracting diseases.

Control Your Blood Sugar Levels

Pea has been linked to diabetes, especially managing the levels of insulin in the body. Studies are limited, but there’s been some indication that it may reduce the fluctuation in serum lipids and insulin levels.

Promote Weight Loss

Pea Microgreens are low in calories yet packed with nutrients. This microgreen is a superfood and is a great source of fiber. Fiber helps with weight loss because it makes you feel fuller and reduce your cravings.

Promote a Healthy Heart

Adding Pea Microgreens to your diet can also help promote a healthy heart. The Microgreen helps protect your heart from illnesses. Pea Microgreens are natural antioxidants that flush harmful toxins out of your system.

It Can Help Prevent Anaemia

Pea Microgreens contain a lot of Iron. Lack of Iron can lead to a disease called Anemia. Anemia makes you feel tired and reduces the performance of your immune system. Adding Pea Microgreens to your diet can help prevent Anemia.

A Great Source Of Nutrients

Pea Microgreens are a great source of nutrients. Aside from nutrients, Pea Microgreens do not contain any cholesterol or sugar.

Below are some of the vitamins and nutrients you can get from eating Pea Microgreens:

  • Dietary Fiber
  • Protein
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C
  • Calcium
  • Iron

What Pests/Diseases Can Damage Microgreens and How to Stop Them?

Multiple pests and diseases can happen to your Microgreens. Learn how to manage them and prevent loss.

Common Root Rot:

Common Rot Root is a plant disease commonly caused by a Fungus. This disease is common in the midwest and northeast of the United States. This disease thrives in moist soil, so do not overwater your plants.

The common symptoms of Root Rot are yellow leaves from the bottom of the plant and stunted plants.

Ascochyta Disease:

Ascochyta Disease is another disease caused by fungi. This disease thrives in a wet and moist environment. A way to prevent this disease is to grow your Pea Microgreens in dry areas.

You can also use an organic fungicide to treat your plants. Common symptoms of Ascochyta Disease include tan or purple lesions that can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant.

Brown Spot:

Brown Spot is a plant disease caused by bacteria. You will notice that your plant has water-soaked leaves and stems. After a few days, you will also notice the leaves and stems have a burned appearance.

The cause of this disease typically lies in the quality of the seed you use. Always use seeds that are high-quality and disease-free to prevent this disease. Avoid planting in the fall season as well.

Fusarium Root Rot:

Fusarium Root Rot is another plant disease caused by a fungus. The common symptoms of Fusarium Root Rot include a stunted plant and black and red streaks on the roots. You will also notice lesions above the soil line.

The cause of Fusarium Root Rot is poor soil and warm and humid soil. There is no treatment for this disease so make sure your soil is not dry and you are using high-quality potting soil.

Downy Mildew:

Downy Mildew is one of the most serious plant diseases that your Microgreens can get. This disease is caused by a fungus that overwinters the soil. This fungus can survive in your soil for 15 years.

You will notice plants having brown blotches on the leaves with a fluffy white-looking fungus on the underside of the leaves. To prevent this disease, avoid planting your pea microgreens during late Autumn.

Gray Mold:

The common symptoms of Gray Mold include gray, elongated lesions. The upper parts of your Microgreen will typically wither and dry out. You will also notice water-soaked pods that can become gray.

The disease thrives in crop debris and you can spread it using infected water. Do not use infected soil and prevent planting in rainy weather. There are no seeds resistant to this disease so avoid overmoisture and control the infected plants as soon as you can.

Bacterial Blight:

Bacterial Blight is another disease caused by bacteria. You can diagnose this disease by finding water-soaked spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. The upper part of your plant will die, and you will notice a slime texture covering your seeds.

You can spread the disease by planting an infected seed and it can survive for three years. Fortunately, some seeds are resistant to this disease. Use premium-quality seeds to prevent plant illnesses like this.

Enation Mosaic

Enation Mosaic is one of the viral plant diseases your Microgreen can get. You will notice blisters on the underside of the leaves. Your plant will also become deformed and have translucent leaves.

This disease is typically spread by Aphids and you can control the spread of Aphids before they become damaging. You can also use plants as reservoirs to manage the spread of Enation Mosaic.

Leaf Miners:

Leafminers are caused by insects and they leave a white trail on the leaves. You will also notice white patches on the leaves. The leafminer will lay eggs on the leave and the larvae typically feed on the leaves.

The insects take two weeks to mature and can last up to ten years if not controlled. To manage the disease, use an insecticide on infected plants. After harvesting the plants, completely remove plant debris.

FAQs

Pea Microgreens Vs Pea Sprouts (Which Is Better?)

Pea Sprouts grow quicker than Pea Microgreens. However, Pea Microgreens have more nutrition and flavor. On the other hand, people typically eat the entire Pea Sprout compared to Microgreens where you have to cut one or two inches above the soil.

How Much Light Do Pea Microgreens Need?

During the first three days of growing, your Microgreens do not need any light to germinate. However, after germination, Pea Microgreens need a lot of sunlight to take root. You can use both an LED growing light or natural sunlight.

What Temperature Do Pea Microgreens Need?

Pea Microgreens thrive in dry environments. The most ideal temperature for Microgreens to grow is 70°F or 21.1°C. A warmer environment can speed up growth. However, warm environments can promote the growth of some fungi.

How Long Do Pea Microgreens Take to Grow?

Pea Microgreens do not take a long time to grow. You can harvest the Pea Microgreens as long as the first true leaves become Microgreens. Ideally, you can harvest the Microgreens when they are six to ten inches tall.

Pea Microgreens take anywhere from 6 to 14 days to grow.

Do Pea Microgreens Regrow After Harvest?

Yes, Pea Microgreens are one of the Microgreens that regrow after cutting. To regrow your Pea Microgreens, you have to cut the Microgreens one or two inches above the soil. The Microgreens do not need to germinate again and will go straight to sprouting.

How Should You Harvest Pea Microgreens?

You can harvest Pea Microgreens when they are six to ten inches tall. The ideal harvest time is around 6 to 14 days. Use kitchen shears to cut the Microgreens one or two inches above the soil.

How Should You Store Pea Microgreens?

A key component to keep in mind when storing Pea Microgreens is moisture. You want to keep the Pea Microgreens as dry as possible. Only harvest the Pea Microgreens whenever you need them.

Wash the Microgreens before using them. Place a paper towel inside the container to let it absorb any moisture. Use an airtight container to store your Pea Microgreens and keep them as dry as possible. Your Pea Microgreens should last for a week or more.

Why Are My Microgreens Falling Over?

Microgreens can fall over for several reasons. One of the reasons your Microgreens are falling over is lack of water. You also need proper ventilation and temperature to make sure your Microgreens do not fall over.

Pea Microgreen Flavor + How to Use Them?

Pea Microgreens have a mild, pea flavor. The best way to eat Pea Microgreens is by adding them to your salad or using them as a side salad. Eating the Pea Microgreens raw can get you the most nutrients and vitamins.

Otherwise, you can also use them for stir fry or as an addition to sandwiches.

How Do You Prevent Damping Off/Why Is Air Movement Important?

Damping-off is one of the plant diseases your Microgreens can get. This disease can cause your plant’s roots to rot. To prevent this disease, use high-quality potting soil and do not overcrowd your pot.

Ventilation and Air Movement are also essential to prevent the growth of fungi. Keep your plants in a well-ventilated room and water from the bottom up. Keep in mind that once your Microgreens get this disease, they cannot be treated.

Recap

Pea Microgreens are a great addition to your diet. These Microgreens contain a lot of vitamins and minerals necessary for your body. To plant Pea Microgreens, you have to soak the seeds for at least eight hours first.

Choose your growing medium and put them in your container. Make sure your container has holes. Let the seeds germinate for three days and after they have sprouted, provide constant light and water.

You can harvest Pea Microgreens after 6 to 14 days. Ideally, the best time to harvest Pea Microgreens is when they are six to ten inches tall. Pea Microgreens have a mild, pea taste and are great as a salad or stir-fry.

Sources

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