Got questions?
What's the difference between sprouts and microgreens?
Sprouts (like bean sprouts and alfalfa sprouts) are grown entirely in water and usually in a glass or other forms of container. Sprouts have little to no exposure to light and the seeds germinate within 24-48 hours. They are ready to be consumed – roots and all.
Conversely, microgreens are planted in either soil or soil-less media with the right amount of water, nutrient, oxygen, and light. The seeds germinate and are grown to about 1-3 inches becoming microgreens and then generally harvested within 7-12 days above the roots. Microgreens have more intense flavor and are packed with vital nutrients and vitamins.
Conversely, microgreens are planted in either soil or soil-less media with the right amount of water, nutrient, oxygen, and light. The seeds germinate and are grown to about 1-3 inches becoming microgreens and then generally harvested within 7-12 days above the roots. Microgreens have more intense flavor and are packed with vital nutrients and vitamins.
Why is Boxfarm made from stainless steel?
While we realized plastic would have been less expensive, there were several key advantages that food-grade stainless steel offered:
- Highly durable and sustainable material and keeps more plastic out of the environment (aligns with our vision)
- Does not degrade with prolonged exposure to sunlight, ultraviolet rays, or artificial light
- Low maintenance and easy to clean
- Modern and attractive aesthetics that complement many decor
What kind of microgreens can I grow?
There are many variety of veggies you can grow, here's a short list: amaranth, arugula, beets, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, clover, curley cress, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, mizuna, mustard, radish, sorrel, sweet pea shoots, tatsoi, and more.
Can I grow herbs?
Definitely. While boxfarm was optimized to grow microgreens we have also grown micro basil, chives, cilantro, and more. Herbs tend to be slow-growth, taking around 14-21 days to reach the micro or baby stage. You simply need to add nutrient solution mix more often.
Can I grow microgreens to mature plants?
Not with the current system. Future add-on will include a customized rack and LED lighting kit to grow veggies and herbs from seed to mature plants while using the same boxfarm grow box and nutrient.
Are the grow mats biodegradable?
The grow mats are biodegradable and can be composted at a commercial composting facility. Not recommended for backyard composting. Visit www.findacomposter.com for a facility near you. We are still researching on a material that is 100% biodegradable even when composted in a landfill or backyard.
Are the grow mats reusuable?
The grow mats are for one time use only. Dispose after harvesting the microgreens. Additional grow mats are available at our online store.
What kind of water should be used?
For consistent and optimal productivity, we recommend using purified drinking or reverse osmosis water (available at your local grocer). While tap water is acceptable, municipal water varies greatly in quality and consistency, thus may affect results.
What is included with Boxfarm?
Boxfarm microgreens kit is a complete growing system that includes: grow box, humidity cover, grow rack, 5 grow mats, plant food (nutrient), sample microgreen seeds, and mister bottle.