Short answer: the basic microgreens supplies are a 10 × 20 or 10 × 10 tray set (one with holes, one without), potting mix or grow mats, microgreen seed, a spray bottle, sharp scissors, and a bright window or LED light. Add a fan, a timer and a weight for big seeds as you grow more.
Must-have microgreens supplies
| Item | What it's for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tray with holes | Holds the growing medium and drains | 10 × 20 standard; 10 × 10 for small spaces |
| Solid tray | Catches water for bottom watering | Also works as a blackout cover |
| Growing medium | Holds moisture and roots | Potting mix, coco coir or grow mats |
| Seed | The crop | Sold for sprouting or microgreens |
| Spray bottle | Misting during blackout | A fine mist is best |
| Scissors or knife | Harvesting | Sharp and clean |
| Light | Turning greens green | Window or LED shop light |
Nice-to-have microgreens supplies
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Small fan | Airflow prevents mold |
| Outlet timer | Consistent hours of light |
| Weight (a brick or water jug) | For sunflower and peas during blackout |
| Kitchen scale | Weigh seed for consistent results |
| Wire shelf | Grow several trays in one spot |
| Seed blends | Several crops in one tray |
What you can skip
- Heat mats. Most homes are warm enough at 65 to 75°F.
- Fertilizer. Most microgreens are harvested before they need it.
- Expensive grow lights. A basic LED shop light works well.
- Fancy watering systems. A jug and a solid tray are enough.
A simple starter list
- One 10 × 10 tray set
- A small bag of potting mix or a pack of grow mats
- One easy seed, such as radish or broccoli
- A spray bottle
- Kitchen scissors
- A bright window
Then follow the step-by-step microgreens guide.
Microgreens kits
If you'd like everything in one box, Sprouting.com has kits, including a small microgreen garden. See our review of DIY microgreen growing kits.
More on each piece of gear
- Trays: best microgreen trays
- Growing medium: soil vs coco coir vs mats
- Light: microgreens grow light guide
Growing sprouts instead? See sprouting kit and supplies.
Frequently asked questions
What supplies do I need to grow microgreens?
A tray with drainage holes and a solid tray under it, about 1 inch of potting mix or a grow mat, microgreen seed, a spray bottle, scissors, and a bright window or grow light.
Do I need a grow light for microgreens?
Not always. A bright south-facing window can work. A simple LED shop light helps a lot in winter or darker homes.
What size tray is best for microgreens?
The standard is 10 × 20 inches. A 10 × 10 inch tray is better for small kitchens and first-time growers.
Is a microgreens kit worth it?
A kit is handy for a first try or a gift because everything matches. If you buy supplies separately, you can choose your own crops and tray size.
Written by Michael
A passionate sprouting professional sharing practical tips for growing sprouts and microgreens at home. More about Michael
