Everything You Need to Know About Microgreens

Microgreens are popular due to their unique flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. They are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Microgreens are commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish for a variety of dishes. Microgreens are relatively easy to grow. They just require a limited upfront investment, little resources and space, but have a quick turnover. Therefore, microgreens are one of the most common and profitable crops among commercial farmers. They can be grown year-round in greenhouses, vertical farms, or even shipping containers indoors under grow lights. They are also popular among home growers. But what exactly are microgreens?

Today, we would like talk about microgreens and help you discover the wonderful world of microgreens. So let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of microgreens!

What are microgreens

Microgreens are young vegetable or herb plants that are harvested when they are just a few inches tall and have just produced their first true leaves. Microgreens are also known as micro herbs or vegetable confetti. They have a variety of colors, flavors, and textures. There are many types of microgreens to choose from. Some of the most popular microgreens includes basil, broccoli, carrots, chard, lettuce, spinach, arugula, sunflower, cabbage, and radish. Microgreens are grown at ease, can be grown with both soil and soilless methods. Most of the microgreens are ready for harvest within 1-3 weeks of planting.

Microgreens VS sprouts

As the terms microgreens and sprouts are often used interchangeably, many people might hard to distinguish them. However, it is important to distinguish microgreens from sprouts for successful cultivation. Sprouts are simply germinated seeds that are eaten with their roots. They often grow in warm, low light, and near 100% humidity environment which is ideal for bacterial growth. Sprouts are harvested within 2-5 days. In contrast, microgreens are young vegetable or herb plants with fully developed stems and leaves,having richer nutritional composition than sprouts. They require less warm and humid environment than sprouts do. Microgreens also has a longer harvest time which is between 7-21 days depending on the type of vegetable.

Are microgreens good for you

Generally speaking, microgreens are good for you. Microgreens have a strong flavor and a lot of nutrients. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help prevent chronic disease, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. According to a study by the USDA Agricultural Research Service, microgreens can have up to 40 times nutrients than their mature counterparts. Microgreens also have a high water content and they can add special flavor, color, and texture to your dishes while keeping you healthy.

Tips for growing microgreens

Since microgreens are the young plants, it is critical to protect them from rains, winds, pest, and disease. For commercial farmers, growing microgreens indoors enable them grow more in less space. Addition of grow lights and CEA technology allow the year-round production and higher yields. Furthermore, it also provide local, fresh, and organic food to meet customers’ needs. For home growers, growing microgreens at home is a fun and rewarding hobby that provide you with fresh greens.

Here are some tips to get you started:

• To start growing microgreens, you will need the following materials and tools: seeds, containers, soil or growing medium, water, LED grow lights, and scissors.
• Choose organic seeds that are suitable for sprouting. Qualified seeds are the foundation of successful cultivation. Only high-quality seeds can grow strong and robust microgreens.
• Use a shallow tray or container with drainage holes. Fill it with moist potting soil or a seed-starting mix.
• Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the soil surface. You don’t need to buy them or cover them with soil.
• Keep the soil moist but not soggy by misting it daily or as needed. You can also cover the tray with a plastic dome or a damp paper towel to create a humid environment.
• Use LED grow lights to meet different light needs. LED lighting is energy-efficient, long-lasting, and eco-friendly. A full spectrum LED grow light like Horti-Green is ideal for growing microgreens.

• Place the tray or pots in a warm and dark place until the seeds sprout. This may take 2 - 5 days depending on the type of seeds.
• Harvest your microgreens when they have developed their first true leaves, usually after 7 - 21 days. Use scissors or a sharp knife to cut them just above the soil level.

FAQ

Can microgreens regrow

It depends on the type pf microgreens and how you harvest them. Most microgreens will not regrow after cutting. But some microgreens, such as peas and basil, may have a chance of regrowing if the stem is left intact after harvesting.

Can microgreens grow without soil

Yes, microgreens can be grown without soil. This is called hydroponic or aeroponic gardening, which means growing plants in water or other mediums instead of soil. To grow microgreens soilless, you need to provide them with enough light and air circulation.

Can you grow microgreens at home

Yes, you can grow microgreens at home. It requires minimal space and equipment. Growing microgreens at home is a fun and easy way to enjoy fresh greens. You can add them to salads, sandwiches, soups, smoothies or use them as a garnish for any dish.

How long can you harvest your microgreens

The length of time you can harvest your microgreens depends on the type of microgreens you are growing and how quickly it grows. Generally, microgreens are ready to harvest within 1 - 3 weeks after germination.