Fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, growing microgreens is one of the easiest and fastest ways to enjoy fresh food at home. These young, edible greens are harvested just days after sprouting—typically within 7–21 days—offering an intense burst of flavor and a concentrated dose of vitamins and minerals. Grown from a variety of vegetable, herb, and even grain seeds like radish, broccoli, and beets, microgreens add vibrant taste and nutrition to salads, sandwiches, soups, and more. Unlike sprouts, which are eaten whole with their roots, microgreens are cut just above the soil line, providing fresh, tender leaves and stems. Best of all, they require minimal space, supplies, and effort, making them ideal for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Whether you want to enhance your meals with homegrown ingredients, add a touch of greenery to your kitchen, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own food, microgreens are an easy and efficient way to enjoy fresh, homegrown greens year-round.
How to Grow Microgreens Indoors:
- Select Your Seeds: Choose seeds suitable for microgreens, such as arugula, radish, broccoli, or sunflower.
- Prepare Your Growing Medium: Use shallow trays with drainage holes and fill them with a growing medium like peat or coconut coir.
- Sow the Seeds: Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the surface of the growing medium. Ensure they are spread out to allow for adequate air circulation.
- Moisten and Cover: Mist the seeds lightly with water to moisten them. Cover the trays with a lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture during germination.
- Provide Adequate Light: Once the seeds sprout (typically in 2–3 days), uncover the trays and place them where they can receive 12–16 hours of bright light daily. A sunny south-facing window works well, but grow lights are ideal for consistent results. Position the lights 4–6 inches above the trays for optimal growth.
- Watering: Water the microgreens lightly from the bottom by filling the tray below with water. This prevents wetting the leaves, which can lead to mold growth. Keep the growing medium moist but not waterlogged.
- Harvesting: Microgreens are ready to harvest in 7–14 days, once they develop their first true leaves. Use clean scissors to cut them just above the soil line.
How to Use Microgreens:
- Salads: Add them as a fresh, flavorful topping to your favorite salads.
- Sandwiches & Wraps: Layer microgreens into sandwiches, burgers, or wraps for a crisp texture.
- Smoothies: Blend them into smoothies for a nutrient boost.
- Garnishes: Use them as a garnish for soups, pasta, or even breakfast dishes like omelets and avocado toast.
Microgreens are versatile, nutrient-dense, and can elevate the flavor and presentation of countless dishes. Plus, growing them in winter is a fantastic way to stay connected to gardening while enjoying fresh, homegrown produce. We carry microgreen seeds during a period from late-winter through spring (or until sold out.) Stop in and try some!