How to Grow Microgreens

Microgreens are nutrient-dense, flavorful seedlings of vegetables and herbs that can be easily grown at home. These miniature greens pack a punch in terms of taste and nutrition, making them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals and culinary enthusiasts alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the process of growing your own microgreens, from selecting seeds to harvesting your crop. This Old House expert Jenn Nawada explains the simple steps to cultivate these edible seedlings in your own home.

What Are Microgreens?

Microgreens are young vegetable greens that are harvested just a few weeks after germination. These tiny plants are packed with intense flavors and high concentrations of nutrients.

Microgreens vs. Sprouts

While microgreens and sprouts are both young plants, there are key differences between the two:

• Edible parts: With microgreens, you eat the stem and the first leaves. Sprouts involve consuming the root, seed and shoot.
• Flavor profile: Microgreens often have a more complex and intense flavor than sprouts.
• Growing method: Microgreens are grown in soil, while sprouts are typically grown in water.
• Growing time: Microgreens take 7–10 days to grow, while sprouts are ready in 2–7 days.

Benefits of Growing Microgreens

Growing microgreens at home offers several advantages:

• Educational opportunity for children to learn about plant growth
• Fresh, nutrient-dense produce year-round
• Quick harvest time compared to full-grown vegetables
• Space-efficient gardening option for urban dwellers
• Variety of flavors and textures to improve meals

Getting Started with Microgreens

Before you begin growing microgreens, gather the necessary supplies and choose the right seeds for your project.

Supplies

To start growing microgreens, you’ll need:

• Organic potting soil
• Scissors for harvesting
• Seeds suitable for microgreens
• Shallow containers or trays with drainage holes
• Spray bottle for watering
• Optional: grow lights for indoor cultivation

Choosing Seeds

When selecting seeds for microgreens, think through the following options:

• Beet: Earthy flavor, beautiful red stems
• Mustard: Peppery taste, vibrant color
• Pea shoots: Sweet flavor, tender texture
• Radish: Spicy flavor, quick to grow
• Sunflower: Mild, nutty taste, high in protein

It’s also worth experimenting with blends of different seeds to create your own unique mix of microgreens. Some suppliers even offer “microgreen mixes” that are specifically designed to complement each other in terms of growth rate and flavor.

The Microgreen Growing Process

Growing microgreens is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. Nawada walks through each stage of cultivation in the video.

Preparing the Seeds

Here’s how to prepare the seeds: 

1. Some seeds require pre-soaking to promote early germination. Check the seed packet for specific instructions.
2. If pre-soaking, add a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide to the water to inhibit bacterial growth.
3. After soaking, rinse and drain the seeds in a colander.

Pre-soaking seeds, especially for varieties like sunflower and pea shoots, can significantly speed up the germination process. However, it’s important to monitor the seeds closely to avoid any issues such as mold growth.

Planting the Seeds

Follow these guidelines for plating the seeds: 

1. Fill your container halfway with organic potting soil.
2. Use the bottom of another container to press the soil down evenly.
3. Water the soil thoroughly before planting.
4. Spread the seeds densely over the soil surface.
5. Use a spray bottle to mist the seeds, checking for good contact with the soil.

The density of seed planting can impact the growth and health of your microgreens. It’s recommended to spread the seeds densely but evenly to make sure that each plant has enough space and nutrients to grow.

Germination and Growth

Here’s how to germinate your microgreens: 

1. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to create a humid environment.
2. Place the container in a warm, dark area for three to four days to encourage germination.
3. Once sprouted, remove the cover and move the container to a sunny spot or under grow lights.
4. Continue to mist the soil regularly to keep it moist but not waterlogged.

A young seedling’s ability to thrive hinges on how well its initial needs are met, including warmth, moisture, and darkness. Transition to a well-lit environment once the seeds have sprouted to encourage healthy, robust growth.

Harvesting Your Microgreens

After seven to 10 days, your microgreens should be ready for harvest. Follow these steps:

1. Sterilize a pair of scissors with hydrogen peroxide.
2. Cut the microgreens just above the soil level, being careful not to pull up any soil.
3. Rinse the harvested greens gently and pat dry.
4. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Using sterilized tools for harvesting helps prevent the introduction of pathogens that could spoil your batch of microgreens. Proper storage is also key for maintaining the freshness and nutritional content of your harvest.

Tips for Successful Microgreen Cultivation

To receive a bountiful harvest of microgreens, keep these tips in mind:

• Experiment with different seed varieties to find your favorites
• Maintain consistent moisture without overwatering
• Provide adequate light once seedlings emerge
• Rotate trays if using natural sunlight to achieve even growth
• Start new trays every few days for a continuous harvest

Additionally, use fans or other airflow methods to improve air circulation around your microgreens. Good airflow can help reduce the risk of mold and other issues associated with excess moisture.

Common Challenges and Solutions When Growing Microgreens

Even experienced gardeners may encounter issues when growing microgreens. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Leggy seedlings: Increase light exposure or move closer to light source
• Mold growth: Improve air circulation and reduce watering frequency
• Slow growth: Check temperature and make sure it’s warm enough for germination
• Uneven germination: Pre-soak seeds and check for even seed distribution

Mold can be a persistent issue for indoor gardeners. It’s particularly important to keep the growing environment clean and to avoid overcrowding the seedlings. Investing in a small fan can make a significant difference.

Using Your Microgreens

Microgreens are versatile ingredients that can improve a variety of dishes. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your meals:

• Add to salads for extra flavor and nutrition
• Blend into smoothies for a nutrient boost
• Mix into omelets or scrambled eggs for added color and flavor
• Top pizzas or flatbreads for a fresh, peppery kick
• Use as a garnish for soups, sandwiches, and main courses

Microgreens can also be used in artisan dishes that require a delicate and visual touch. Their vibrant colors and intense flavors can add a gourmet element to even the simplest of meals.

Creative Culinary Uses

Experiment with microgreens in other culinary creations, such as:

• Herb butter: Mix microgreens with softened butter to create a flavorful spread for bread, seafood, or vegetables.
• Microgreen pesto: Blend microgreens with nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese for a twist on traditional pesto.
• Microgreen stir-fry: Add microgreens at the end of cooking a stir-fry for a nutritious boost.

Nutritional Benefits

Microgreens are known for their impressive nutritional profile. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, often containing higher nutrient levels than their mature counterparts. Including microgreens in your diet can help support overall health and wellness.