How to Set Up Your Microgreens Tray and Cocopeat
Good setup is the difference between a thriving tray and a failed one. Follow these steps exactly and you will nail your first batch.
What You Need
- 1 tray with drainage holes (10×10 inch)
- 1 solid tray (same size — sits below for bottom watering)
- 4 cocopeat discs (42mm) or 200–250g loose cocopeat
- Seeds — already pre-soaked if required (check the soaking requirements guide)
Step 1 — Hydrate Your Cocopeat
Place cocopeat discs in the drainage tray. Add 300–400ml water. Wait 15–20 minutes until fully expanded. Do the squeeze test — water should NOT drip when squeezed firmly. If it does, drain the excess water from the solid tray below.
Step 2 — Sow Your Seeds
After sowing seeds evenly across the surface, press them gently into the cocopeat with a flat object. Seeds should be in contact with the medium but not buried.
Step 3 — Blackout Stage
Cover with the solid tray inverted on top to block all light. This begins the blackout stage. Keep in a dark spot with airflow. Check after 36 hours in summer, 48 hours in winter.
Common Setup Mistakes
- ❌ Cocopeat too wet — always do the squeeze test
- ❌ Seeds not in contact with cocopeat — press gently but firmly
- ❌ No drainage — the tray with holes is essential to prevent mold