What’s the Best Fertilizer for Microgreens? A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Microgreens grow fast — and with the right fertilizer, they grow even better. Learn what nutrients microgreens need, when to feed them, and how Easy Harvesting's Microgreen Essential can supercharge your harvest.

Lav

5/31/20252 min read

a close up of a bunch of green plants
a close up of a bunch of green plants

Microgreens are small in size but big on nutrition. Whether you’re growing them at home, for a restaurant, or as a hobby — getting the right fertilizer is key to maximizing your harvest.

These tender greens grow quickly, often in just 7–14 days, which means they need the right nutrients available right from the start. This guide will help you choose the best fertilizer for microgreens and introduce you to a simple solution that delivers consistent, healthy growth.

Why Microgreens Need Fertilizer

Even though microgreens grow quickly and don’t require a deep root system, they still need:

  • Nitrogen (N) – for vibrant green leaves

  • Potassium (K) – for water balance and overall health

  • Micronutrients – like calcium, magnesium, and iron for resilience and color

In soil or hydroponics, nutrient depletion happens fast. A good fertilizer helps fill the gap so your plants grow evenly and don’t yellow prematurely.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer Type

There are three main types of fertilizers for microgreens:

  1. Liquid Fertilizers – Easy to apply in water trays or directly to soil

  2. Seed Priming Solutions – Boost germination and early vigor

  3. Hydroponic Nutrient Mixes – Specifically formulated for water-based systems

Pro tip: Avoid using standard houseplant fertilizers. They’re often too strong and may lead to salt buildup or uneven growth.

Our Recommended Formula

At Easy Harvesting, we developed Microgreen Essential (2-0-3 NPK) — a light, balanced fertilizer that supports:

  • Quick germination

  • Uniform leaf development

  • Longer shelf life and color retention

  • Safe use across all popular varieties: wheatgrass, mustard, radish, basil, etc.

It’s made with clean, food-safe ingredients, ideal for daily or alternate-day application in water trays or soil.

How to Apply Fertilizer to Microgreens

For Soil-Based Growing:

  • Mix the recommended amount into water

  • Water gently from the base

  • Start from day 3–4 of germination

For Hydroponics:

  • Add fertilizer directly to the water reservoir

  • Replace solution every 3–5 days for optimal nutrition

For Seed Priming (optional):

  • Soak seeds for 4–6 hours in a diluted fertilizer solution

  • Rinse and plant as usual

Final Takeaway

If you’re growing microgreens for home use, nutrition, or even resale, using the right fertilizer will boost yield, improve taste, and cut down on crop failure.

With Easy Harvesting’s Microgreen Essential, you don’t need to guess. You just water, wait, and harvest.

Buy Microgreen Essential