Growing microgreens is not only a rewarding hobby, but it can also be an easy way to improve your nutrition. Or if you care more about potential side hustle ideas, it is possible to sell them too. With a variety of types to choose from, such as amaranth microgreens, cilantro microgreens, broccoli microgreens, kale microgreens, pea microgreens, etc. there’s something for microgreen growers of all types. Plus, it can be much more affordable to grow then yourself vs buying at grocery stores. I’ve had great success with germination rates on many different microgreen varieties and I’m not a gardening expert. So, the good news is anyone can do it at home for their own personal use using little space! But, what are the best microgreen trays to use? Let’s take a look.
What Materials Are Needed?
To get started first, a few essential pieces of equipment are needed, including microgreens seeds, a growing medium such as a fine seed starting mix or coco coir, a grow light, a humidity dome, and microgreen growing trays along with a watering tray. This article is focused on finding the best microgreen trays. While there are many options available, this post will focus on five of the best choices perfect for budget-conscious gardeners.
Some Helpful Related Links to Consider:
What kind of microgreen seeds can I get?
What is the best growing medium for microgreens?
The complete microgreens growing guide
When it comes to microgreens, choosing the right and perfect tray is crucial. But you don’t want to have to break the bank to do so. So, what should one look for in a growing tray? If you don’t want to spend any money at all, there is always the option of using things you have around the house such as fruit containers (like strawberries, blueberries, etc.). However, sometimes you want something that looks a little more appealing, or that you know is designed strictly for growing seeds.
Best Microgreen Trays and What to Look For
Having shallow trays is important because most greens dont require a lot of soil to grow in. But at the same time having deep trays is important as well because if they are too shallow, the roots won’t have enough soil to grow to their full potential. In other words, it needs a good balance depending on what you are growing. It should also have adequate drainage holes or bottom holes, typically in one tray. And then a bottom tray (drip tray) to hold excess water and be sturdy enough to withstand regular use.
Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for the best trays that don’t sacrifice quality. You can always check out Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for some really cheap used ones, But, if you want to buy from a retailer, some of the best microgreen trays for budget-conscious gardeners include trays from Bootstrap Farmer, Handy Pantry, and True Leaf Market. These trays offer excellent value for the price, without breaking the bank. Below is a quick review of these:
1) Bootstrap Farmer: Affordable and Heavy-Duty Microgreen Trays
Bootstrap Farmer is a brand that offers a variety of affordable and high-quality microgreen trays that are perfect for budget-conscious gardeners. These trays are designed to provide an optimal environment for growing microgreens, herbs, and other small plants. Fun fact, they were also just purchased by True Leaf Market which I will review here in a second.
Tray Options
Bootstrap Farmer offers a range of tray options, including standard 1020 trays and shallow trays. The standard 1020 trays are perfect for growing a variety of small plants, while the shallow trays are ideal for growing microgreens and herbs.
Tray Quality
These trays are made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. These trays are made from thick, durable plastic that is resistant to cracking, bending, and warping. Additionally, the trays have reinforced corners that provide extra strength and stability.
Warranty
Bootstrap Farmer stands behind their products and offers a comprehensive warranty on all of their microgreen trays. If you experience any issues with your trays, you can contact Bootstrap Farmer customer service for assistance.
In conclusion, Bootstrap Farmer offers affordable and durable heavy-duty microgreen trays that are perfect for budget-conscious gardeners. With a variety of shallow trays and high-quality materials, these trays are a great investment for anyone looking to grow microgreens, herbs, and other small plants.
Bootstrap Farmer’s selection of microgreen trays
2) Paperpot Trays: Commercial Grower’s Choice
When it comes to growing microgreens, investing in high-quality, durable trays is essential. Paperpot Germination Trays and Solid Bottom Trays are the go-to choice for commercial growers who want to ensure their trays last a lifetime. These heavy-duty trays are rigid yet flexible, practically unbreakable, and made from recycled, UV-treated, and BPA-free #5 – polypropylene.
Size Variations
The Paperpot Germination Trays have inside dimensions of 23-1/8” x 11 x 1- 1/4″ and outside dimensions of 24-1/16″ x 12″ x 1-3/8″. The Solid Bottom Trays have outside dimensions of 24-7/8” x 12-7/8″ x 7/8″. Their trays have a larger footprint than standard 10/20 trays, so it’s essential to check your shelving before purchasing to ensure fit. These durable trays are great for growing microgreens and wheatgrass as the bottom drainage holes allow water to drain out. They are also much tougher and longer-lasting than typical thin-walled germination trays. They come with a bottom tray, allowing for bottom watering along with a humidity dome
If you’re tired of cheap plastic trays that keep breaking, it’s time to invest in Paperpot Germination Trays and Solid Bottom Trays. These trays are a commercial grower’s choice for a reason, and with their durability and longevity, they are sure to last you a lifetime.
Paperpot’s selection of microgreen trays
3) Handy Pantry BPA-Free Plastics Trays
For microgreens growers, it is important to use trays that are safe and free from harmful chemicals. While some of the cheapest ones out there may be tempting to use, it is hard to know what all is included in the plastic materials and there is always the risk of those materials and chemicals leaching into the soil and plants. Handy Pantry offers a range of BPA-free, food-grade plastic trays that are made from eco-friendly materials and are safe for growing edible greens. These trays are also reusable and easy to clean, making them a sustainable choice for home gardeners.
Quality and Price
Handy Pantry microgreen trays are not only affordable but also of high quality. These trays are made from sturdy materials that can withstand daily use and are designed to provide optimal growing conditions for microgreens. Additionally, Handy Pantry offers competitive prices, making it easy for budget-conscious gardeners to grow their own microgreens without breaking the bank. If you are looking for an affordable and eco-friendly way to grow microgreens at home, then Handy Pantry is the perfect choice. With their BPA-free trays and competitive prices, you can enjoy fresh and nutritious greens all year round.
For more information on growing microgreens, check out Microgreen World, a website dedicated to all things microgreens.
Handy Pantry’s selection of microgreen trays
4) True Leaf Market: Affordable and Durable Trays
If you’re looking for affordable and durable microgreen trays, True Leaf Market is an excellent choice. This company offers a wide range of microgreen trays that are perfect for budget-conscious gardeners who also want a high-quality product that will last for multiple growing cycles. These are what I currently use and can honestly say I think they are the best microgreen trays. I love the bottom tray along with the drainage holes that they come with. This allows you to put excess water in the bottom tray, and the drainage holes allow the plant roots to get access to the water. Some trays out there don’t have drainage holes on the bottom, and you don’t necessarily need them, however I prefer to have them as I think it is more effective to grow than not having them. I also buy my microgreen seeds from True Leaf Market as well.
Affordable Option
One of the best things about True Leaf Market’s microgreen trays is how affordable they are. Their trays start at around $5, which is significantly cheaper than many other options on the market. This means that you can purchase multiple trays without breaking the bank, which is great if you’re planning on growing a lot of microgreens.
Durability
In addition to being affordable, True Leaf Market’s microgreen trays are also incredibly durable. They are made from high-quality materials, so they won’t crack or break easily. This means that you can use them for multiple growing cycles without having to worry about replacing them.
If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting microgreen tray that won’t break the bank, True Leaf Market is definitely worth checking out. Their trays are both affordable and durable, making them a great choice for budget-conscious gardeners who want to grow high-quality microgreens.
True Leaf Market’s selection of microgreen trays
5) Second-Hand Trays on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace
This might not be a specific product, but sometimes when you’re on a tight budget, buying second-hand microgreen trays is an excellent option. While some growers prefer buying new trays, others opt to get trays from growers who have gone out of business or have extra trays they no longer need. Often times, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are a great option to start your search for second-hand trays.
Cost Savings
One of the main reasons growers turn to Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for trays is cost savings. Second-hand trays are often sold at a fraction of the cost of new trays, making it easier for budget-conscious gardeners to get started with microgreen growing. Additionally, some growers may be willing to negotiate the price of the trays, giving you an opportunity to save even more money. However, when purchasing second-hand trays, it’s essential to inspect the trays carefully. Look for damage, cracks, or any signs of wear and tear. Microgreens need to grow in trays that are clean, free from debris, and fully functional. If you find trays that are in excellent condition, buying second-hand trays can be a smart and affordable way to start your microgreen growing journey.
While Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are great options for second-hand trays, remember to buy from reputable sellers. Meet the seller in person, inspect the trays, and don’t forget to negotiate the price. If you’re lucky, you might find trays that are almost new, giving you the opportunity to grow healthy and delicious microgreens without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right microgreen trays is an important consideration when starting your microgreens hobby or business. The affordable trays listed in this article offer a range of options for budget-conscious gardeners. Bootstrap Farmer trays are the top pick due to their heavy-duty construction and replacement guarantee. Paperpot trays are another great option for commercial growers but come at a higher cost. Handy Pantry and True Leaf Market offer mid-range options, while Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace can be a good source for pre-owned trays. No matter which trays you choose, make sure they fit together well and are appropriate for microgreen growing.
The important thing to remember is just to get started experimenting with growing microgreens. If you are looking for further information, check out the resources posted above and consider checking out my review of my experience with them, along with the nutrional value you can get from them. I was shocked the positive benefits of them! Happy growing!
