Handle mucilaginous seeds with special care

Some microgreen seeds form a gel-like coating when wet, making them clump together and prone to mold. These "mucilaginous" seeds need different handling than standard varieties.

Mucilaginous Varieties

• Basil, chia, flax, arugula, cress, sorrel, amaranth, dill, shiso, celery

Special Rules

• Never pre-soak — they'll stick together in a gooey mass
• Do not stack weight on top during germination — their delicate seedlings are pressure-sensitive
• Use grow mats instead of soil — prevents mud sticking to the gel coating
• Apply minimal misting rather than heavy watering
• Ensure excellent air circulation to prevent mold in the moist gel

Tips

• The terra cotta dry sprouting method works well — seeds draw water in small increments through porous clay without becoming over-saturated
• Space seeds close together but mist after placing, not before
• These varieties require more attention but produce unique flavors worth the effort