Growing microgreens on silicone mesh and PP polypropylene mesh trays using only water: What to know

Microgreens have become a favourite among health-conscious foodies, chefs, and home gardeners across Australia. While many people grow microgreens in soil or coconut coir, an increasing number are turning to reusable mesh systems — specifically silicone mesh and PP (polypropylene) mesh trays — for a cleaner, more sustainable, and minimalist approach.

What’s unique about growing microgreens on these meshes? Can you really grow them using just water? And which varieties thrive best in this setup? Let’s dig in.

Why choose silicone mesh and PP polypropylene mesh?

Cleaner, more hygienic growing
Unlike soil or fibre-based mediums, silicone and polypropylene meshes don’t hold organic matter, which reduces the risk of mould, fungal diseases, and bacterial contamination. For home growers and commercial producers alike, this means microgreens are cleaner at harvest and often require less washing.

Reusable and eco-friendly
Both silicone and PP mesh trays are highly durable and reusable for hundreds of cycles, dramatically reducing waste compared to single-use grow mats or disposable plastics. Over time, this lowers your environmental footprint and operational costs.

Simplified growing process
When using these meshes, you don’t need soil, coco coir, or fertiliser. The seeds germinate on the mesh surface with just water — the seeds contain all the initial nutrients they need for early growth. This makes setup and cleanup far easier, especially for small indoor or urban spaces.

How does it work? The water-only method

The basic principle is straightforward:

Soak your seeds or spray with water: Most microgreen seeds benefit from soaking for 6–12 hours to encourage even germination. For smaller seeds keep spraying with water to keep them moist.

Spread seeds on the mesh: Evenly distribute the soaked seeds directly on the silicone or PP mesh in a shallow tray. Keep spraying water until germinated.

Add water below the mesh: Fill the tray with enough clean, filtered water so it just touches the base of the seeds via capillary action.

Cover and wait: Cover the tray to maintain darkness and humidity during the initial germination phase (usually 2–4 days, depending on variety).

Expose to light: Once germinated, remove the cover and place the tray under good light (natural sunlight or LED grow lights).

Maintain water level: Keep water topped up consistently. Because you’re not using a medium, roots anchor directly into the mesh and draw up moisture.

Best microgreens for mesh-based, water-only growing

Not all microgreens perform equally well on mesh trays without a substrate. Varieties with strong, fibrous root systems and larger seeds generally do best.

Ideal varieties
Pea shoots: Vigorous, fast-growing, and highly adaptable.

Radish: Robust roots and rapid germination make them perfect for mesh.

Broccoli: Performs well on mesh with high germination rates.

Kohlrabi: Similar to broccoli, great on water-only systems.

Mustard greens: Strong, quick-growing roots that establish easily.

Cabbage: Similar brassica traits make it suitable.

Sunflower: Larger seeds anchor well but require careful moisture control to avoid hull rot.

More challenging varieties
Basil: Prefers higher humidity and struggles to anchor on mesh alone.

Amaranth: Tiny seeds that can clump; usually better on a finer mesh or a thin mat.

Coriander (cilantro): Slower germination and weaker root systems make it harder without a medium.

Advantages of water-only mesh systems

Minimal mess
Without soil or compost, you’ll avoid dirt and dust indoors. This is particularly appealing for apartment growers or those wanting to keep kitchen benchtops clean.

Easier harvest and root-free cutting
Since roots stay above the waterline and do not embed into fibrous material, cutting microgreens is simpler and cleaner.

Lower long-term costs
Reusable mesh trays can last years, reducing ongoing costs for mediums or disposable trays.

Challenges to watch for
Humidity management: Mesh-based systems can dry out faster. Regular water checks are critical to avoid root desiccation.

Anchoring issues: Some delicate varieties may not root strongly enough, leading to uneven stands or “floating” seedlings.

Nutrient limitations: While microgreens generally don’t need fertiliser, very high-volume or commercial growers might consider mild nutrient solutions to enhance growth after initial sprouting.