Microgreens are gaining popularity as one of the easiest and healthiest crops to grow at home. These tiny greens deliver intense flavor along with concentrated vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that often exceed their fully grown counterparts. They are ready to harvest in just 7 to 14 days, making them a fast and rewarding choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners.
The success of microgreens depends not only on seeds and light but also on the growing medium. A good medium provides steady moisture, healthy root support, and protection against mold, while a poor choice can lead to weak or uneven growth.
In 2025, growers can choose from sustainable hemp mats, versatile coco coir, professional soilless mixes, and nutrient-rich organic soils. Let’s look at the best growing mediums available this year.
Our Top Picks
🌱 1. Coco Bliss Premium Coconut Coir Brick
Coco coir is one of the most popular mediums for microgreens—and for good reason. Made from coconut husks, this eco-friendly option retains water exceptionally well while staying airy enough to prevent root rot.
The brick expands when hydrated, filling multiple trays with fluffy, sterile substrate. It’s mess-free, lightweight, and compostable after harvest. Perfect for beginners who want a reliable medium without fuss.
✅ Pros: Sustainable, mold-resistant, holds moisture well
❌ Cons: Low in nutrients, may need organic fertilizer for longer crops
Best for: Beginners, eco-conscious growers, and anyone looking for a clean, versatile medium.
🌿 2. Hemp Microgreen Grow Mats
For soil-free growing, hemp mats are a top pick. These natural fibers absorb up to 10× their weight in water, keeping seeds evenly moist during germination. They fit perfectly in standard 10×20 trays and compost easily after use.
Hemp mats are especially popular among wheatgrass, pea shoot, and radish growers who want a clean harvest without soil cleanup.
✅ Pros: Biodegradable, easy cleanup, consistent hydration
❌ Cons: Can dry quickly if not monitored
Best for: Soil-free growing, clean kitchens, and sustainable gardeners.
🌾 3. Pro-Mix HP High Porosity Soilless Mix
This professional-grade soilless mix is loved by commercial growers for its reliability. Formulated with peat moss, perlite, and mycorrhizae, it ensures excellent aeration and uniform germination.
Unlike plain coco coir, Pro-Mix provides a little extra structure, making it forgiving for first-time growers and dependable for scale-up operations.
✅ Pros: Consistent results, professional-grade, supports strong roots
❌ Cons: Higher upfront cost compared to DIY blends
Best for: Serious home gardeners and commercial growers who want professional results.
🌱 4. Jute Fiber Microgreen Mats
Jute mats are a budget-friendly alternative to hemp and coco mats. They hold water well and offer a natural, biodegradable surface for seeds to root into.
While they may fray a bit during use, many growers love them for fast-growing crops like mustard, broccoli, and arugula.
✅ Pros: Affordable, biodegradable, soil-free option
❌ Cons: Slightly less durable, can unevenly retain moisture
Best for: Budget-conscious growers who want soil-free growing at a lower cost.
🌿 5. Organic Potting Mix Blend
For traditionalists, nothing beats organic soil. This potting mix provides natural nutrients, great water retention, and robust growth. Microgreens grown in soil often have stronger flavor and larger yields compared to hydroponic mats.
However, cleanup can be messier, and the risk of mold is slightly higher if overwatered. Still, for many, soil is the go-to choice for maximum results.
✅ Pros: Nutrient-rich, great yields, affordable
❌ Cons: Messier cleanup, higher mold risk if overwatered
Best for: Gardeners seeking nutrient-dense microgreens with bold flavor.
🌱 6. Coco Coir Grow Mats
Coco mats combine the benefits of coco coir with the convenience of a soil-free format. Pre-cut to fit trays, they eliminate the hassle of rehydrating bricks while offering excellent water retention and airflow.
They’re particularly great for herbs and delicate greens like basil, cilantro, and amaranth.
✅ Pros: Easy setup, eco-friendly, reduces soil mess
❌ Cons: May need extra nutrients for long grows
Best for: Herb growers, soil-free gardeners, and those who want quick setup with minimal cleanup.
🔎 How to Choose the Best Growing Medium for Microgreens
- Soil-free vs. Soil-based: If you prefer clean harvesting, mats are best. For maximum nutrition and growth, soil mixes shine.
- Durability: Commercial growers should invest in reliable, high-yield mediums like Pro-Mix or coco bricks.
- Sustainability: Hemp and jute mats compost easily, while coco coir is renewable and eco-friendly.
- Ease of Use: Beginners benefit from pre-cut mats, while experienced growers might prefer soil for versatility.
🌟 Final Thought
- For beginners, Coco Coir Bricks offer a clean and forgiving start.
- For soil-free growers, Hemp and Jute Mats are eco-friendly, compostable, and convenient.
- For professional results, Pro-Mix HP delivers consistent, high yields.
- For traditionalists, Organic Potting Mix provides unmatched flavor and growth.
- For quick setup, Coco Coir Mats combine sustainability with convenience.