Many beginners assume all microgreen seeds need soaking. They don't — and soaking the wrong seeds causes problems. These are the varieties to sow dry, straight from the packet.
Seeds to Sow Dry
| Variety | Why Sow Dry |
| Basil | Forms a gel (mucilage) when wet — pre-soaked seed becomes a sticky clump |
| Amaranth | Tiny seeds — no benefit from soaking, and wet seed is hard to spread |
| Mustard (black and yellow) | Small seeds that germinate quickly on their own |
| Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale, Purple Kale | Small brassica seeds — sow dry for even spreading |
| Pak Choi, Turnip, Rocket | Small brassica seeds — germinate well without soaking |
| Clover | Tiny, quick-germinating seed |
| Purple Sango Radish | Sown dry (unlike regular and China Rose radish, which soak 4–6 hours) |
Note: regular radish, China Rose radish and alfalfa do get a short 4–6 hour soak, and coriander soaks 8–12 hours after light crushing. See the full soaking guide or our Seed Calculator.
The Basil Gel Explained
Basil seeds produce a thick gel when they touch water. On the tray this is useful — it helps the seed stay in place on the cocopeat while it germinates. But if you pre-soak basil, the gel forms before sowing and the seeds become an impossible sticky clump. Always sow basil dry, then mist gently.
Not sure about your variety? Ask Sonia 🌱
📚 Related Guides
🌱 Seed Planning Resources