Do microgreens attract indoor pests?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Microgreens are less likely to attract indoor pests with the right prevention measures in place. These delicate plants do not contain strong aromas that attract the insects to mature vegetables. I have kept all my indoor gardens pest-free with a combination of three key principles: sterilization of containers, moisture management, and airflow. Your kitchen setup stays clean without the use of chemical pesticides.
Container Sterilization
- Soak used trays in vinegar solution for 30 minutes before reuse
- Scrub containers with baking soda paste to remove organic residues
- Dry completely in sunlight to kill remaining pathogens
Moisture Control
- Water only through bottom reservoirs keeping surfaces dry
- Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings
- Use moisture meters to prevent overwatering conditions
Airflow Management
- Position small fans to create gentle air movement
- Run ventilation systems 4 hours during daylight
- Avoid stagnant air pockets near windows
Between each planting cycle, enforce container sterilization. Every new batch of fungus gnats hatches from the organic matter left in reuse trays. I scrub the containers with a vinegar solution and then completely dry them in the sun. This will kill the pest's eggs and stop infestations at the source.
Manage moisture levels to prevent pests. Overly wet soil attracts fungus gnats, which are looking for moist breeding sites. I water through the bottom reservoirs and check with moisture meters. Surface drying ever so slightly decreases the chance egg-laying insects will find your pot.
At the first indications of a pest problem, use natural remedies. Weekly application of neem oil solutions creates non-chemical barriers of protection. For severe infestations, add beneficial nematodes to your soil, and these microscopic predators will devour the larvae without harming your plants.
Your indoor environment will naturally fend off most pests typically found in the garden. Regular observation will catch problems early on before they become larger issues. Quarantine affected plants promptly. Regular pest prevention will allow your microgreens to continue their life cycle in a pest-free environment, regardless of the season or your location.
Read the full article: How to Grow Microgreens Indoors at Home
