Growing pumpkin microgreens from leftover pumpkin seeds is an excellent way to upcycle fall décor while bringing fresh, nutritious greens to your kitchen. Pumpkin microgreens are easy to grow, nutrient-dense, and add a tasty crunch to salads, sandwiches, or soups. Here’s how to turn those seeds from your jack-o’-lantern or pie pumpkins into a delicious indoor crop.
Step 1: Clean and Prepare Your Pumpkin Seeds
After carving your pumpkin, save the seeds instead of tossing them out. Rinse the seeds thoroughly in a strainer to remove all the pulp. Once they’re clean, dry them on a paper towel. Allow the seeds to sit for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, until they are completely dry to reduce the risk of mold during germination.
Step 2: Prepare Your Planting Container
Pumpkin seeds don’t need much space, so any shallow tray or container with drainage holes will work. Fill the container with about 1–2 inches of organic potting soil or a seed-starting mix. Make sure the soil is moist but not soaked, as overly wet soil can cause seeds to rot.
Step 3: Sow the Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are larger than most microgreen seeds, so spacing them out evenly will help each seed grow without competing too much for space. Gently press each seed onto the soil surface about an inch apart and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil.
Step 4: Water and Cover
Spray the seeds lightly with water to keep the soil moist. You may want to cover the container with a plastic lid or a damp cloth to create a humid environment that encourages faster germination. Keep the container in a warm place out of direct sunlight.
Step 5: Provide Light and Keep Moist
After about 3–5 days, you should start to see the seeds sprouting. At this point, remove the cover and place the container where it can get bright, indirect light. Continue misting the soil as needed to keep it moist, but avoid over-watering.
Step 6: Harvesting Your Pumpkin Microgreens
In about 10–14 days, your pumpkin microgreens will reach 2–3 inches in height and should have a pair of small leaves. Use clean scissors to snip the greens just above the soil. Harvest all at once or snip a few as needed.
Tips for Using Your Pumpkin Microgreens
Pumpkin microgreens have a mild, nutty flavor that makes them a perfect topping for a variety of dishes. Sprinkle them over scrambled eggs, mix them into salads, or layer them onto sandwiches for a fresh boost of nutrition. These greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, making them a powerful addition to your diet.
This simple indoor gardening project is a great way to reuse seeds and enjoy fresh greens in your kitchen year-round. Plus, it’s a perfect way to keep the spirit of pumpkin season alive long after the holiday decorations are gone. Happy growing!
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