Grow microgreens indoors: A complete guide for beginners.
Microgreens are the young seedlings of edible plants known for their vibrant colours, intense flavours, and impressive nutrient profiles. Packed with more vitamins and minerals than their mature counterparts, they are an excellent addition to any meal. Growing microgreens indoors is not only convenient but also allows for year-round access to these nutrient-rich plants. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting, microgreens are a low-maintenance and space-efficient way to enhance your diet.
In this blog post, we will explore how to grow microgreens indoors, from the materials you need to step-by-step instructions and tips for harvesting.
What are microgreens?
Microgreens are essentially the young shoots of various vegetables and herbs, harvested early in their development, typically within 7 to 14 days after germination. Unlike sprouts, microgreens grow for a slightly longer period, developing leaves, and absorbing nutrients from the soil.
Microgreens can be grown from various types of seeds. Popular varieties include:
- Arugula: Known for its spicy, peppery flavor, perfect for salads.
- Broccoli: Offering a mild, fresh taste that complements various dishes.
- Basil: A common herb that adds an aromatic and slightly sweet flavor.
- Radish: Adds a bold, spicy taste to meals, perfect for a flavorful kick.
- Sunflower: Known for its nutty, crunchy texture, it is a great addition to salads and smoothies.
Aside from their flavor, their nutritional content truly sets microgreens apart. Studies have shown that microgreens can contain up to 40 times the nutrients of their mature counterparts. For example, red cabbage microgreens are known to be rich in vitamin C, while cilantro microgreens are high in lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants beneficial for eye health. This nutrient density is what makes microgreens a powerful addition to any diet.
Why grow microgreens indoors?
Growing microgreens indoors is an attractive option, especially if you’re short on space or live in a colder climate. Here are some key benefits:
Space-saving
Unlike traditional gardening, microgreens don’t require a large garden plot. They can be grown in small trays on a windowsill, balcony, or even under artificial light indoors. This makes them ideal for urban dwellers and those with limited outdoor space.
Quick turnaround
Microgreens are incredibly fast-growing. Most varieties are ready to harvest in just 7 to 14 days, providing almost instant gratification compared to conventional gardening, where you may wait months for a harvest.
Nutrient-dense
One of the main reasons people grow microgreens is their impressive nutrient profile. Microgreens like kale, radish, and arugula are packed with vitamins such as A, C, and K and minerals like potassium and iron. They are also a great source of antioxidants, making them a powerful addition to any meal.
Low maintenance
Growing microgreens indoors is incredibly easy, even for beginners. They require minimal maintenance, and you can enjoy a continual harvest with the right setup. Additionally, pest management is rarely a concern because they are grown in small trays or containers, especially compared to outdoor gardening.
Cost-effective
Buying microgreens at the grocery store can be expensive, but growing them at home is a much more affordable option. A packet of seeds costs only a few pounds or dollars and can yield several harvests. Plus, if you reuse containers from around the house, such as old berry cartons, you can save even more on setup costs.
Materials needed for growing microgreens indoors.
Before you start growing microgreens, you’ll need a few basic materials. The good news is that most of these items are inexpensive and easy to find:
Seeds
You can use regular vegetable seeds or opt for unique microgreen seed mixes available at garden centres or online. Popular seeds for microgreens include mustard, radish, broccoli, and sunflower. These seed mixes are often designed to give you a variety of flavors and textures.
Growing medium
While you can grow microgreens in various mediums, soil is the most common choice for beginners. Use organic potting soil or seed-starting mix for the best results. Other options include coconut coir, a sustainable, soil-free alternative, or even hydroponic grow mats designed for microgreens.
Trays or containers
Microgreens don’t need deep soil, so shallow trays or repurposed containers like plastic berry cartons work well. The container should be about 1–2 inches deep to hold your growing medium and have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Light source
Sunlight is ideal for growing microgreens, but if your home doesn’t have enough natural light, you can use artificial grow lights. Fluorescent or LED grow lights work well, providing the necessary light spectrum to encourage healthy growth. Microgreens typically need about 4–6 hours of light daily, but more light will result in faster growth.
Watering tools
A spray bottle or a watering can with a gentle spout is essential for watering your microgreens. These delicate plants need consistent moisture, but overwatering can lead to mold growth, so it’s important to keep the soil damp.
Step-by-step guide: how to grow microgreens indoors
Now that you have your materials ready, it’s time to get growing! Here’s a simple guide to help you grow your own microgreens indoors:
Prepare the tray
Start by filling your shallow tray or container with about 1–2 inches of potting soil or your chosen growing medium. Make sure the medium is evenly spread and lightly packed.
Sow the seeds
Evenly scatter the seeds across the surface of the soil. Be careful not to overcrowd the tray, as this can hinder the growth of your microgreens. You want the seeds to be spaced enough, so they have room to sprout and grow.
Cover lightly
Lightly sprinkle a thin layer of soil over the seeds, just enough to cover them. Press down gently with your fingers to ensure the seeds are in contact with the soil, which will help them germinate.
Water the seeds
Use a mister or spray bottle to water the seeds gently. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. An essential tip is to water from below if your container has drainage holes. Simply place the tray in a shallow water basin, allowing the soil to absorb moisture through capillary action.
Provide light
Place your tray where it will receive plenty of sunlight—ideally a south-facing window—or set up your grow lights. Keep the lights about 1–2 inches above the plants, and adjust the height as the plants grow.
Monitor growth
Keep an eye on your microgreens over the next 7 to 14 days. Mist the soil daily to keep it moist, and watch as the seeds sprout into tiny green shoots. Once they’ve grown their first true leaves, they’re ready for harvest!
Harvesting and using microgreens
Once your microgreens have grown their first set of true leaves (not to be confused with the initial cotyledon leaves), it’s time to harvest them. Use clean scissors to snip the microgreens just above the soil line. It’s best to harvest them fresh and only what you need, but any excess microgreens can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days.
Here are a few ways to use your freshly harvested microgreens:
- Salads: Add them to your favorite salad for extra crunch and flavor.
- Garnishes: Microgreens make a beautiful and nutritious garnish for soups, stews, and main dishes.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Add them to sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a nutrient boost.
- Smoothies: Blend them into your smoothies for added nutrition without compromising the taste.
FAQs
Do microgreens regrow after cutting?
No, microgreens generally do not regrow after cutting. When you harvest microgreens, you cut the entire shoot just above the soil line. Since microgreens don’t have a strong root system, they don’t regenerate. To have a continuous supply, you must reseed your tray and start the growing process again.
Can you grow microgreens indoors?
Yes, microgreens are ideal for indoor growing. They don’t require much space, and with the right conditions—such as a shallow tray, adequate light, and proper watering—you can easily grow them on a windowsill, countertop, or under grow lights. Many people prefer growing microgreens indoors as it allows for year-round cultivation, regardless of the season.
Is growing microgreens worth it?
Absolutely! Growing microgreens is worth it for several reasons. They are nutrient-dense, containing higher concentrations of vitamins and minerals than mature plants. They’re also fast-growing, easy to maintain, and can save you money compared to buying them at the store. Plus, you get fresh, organic produce right in your home.
Can you grow microgreens without sunlight?
Yes, but you will need to use grow lights. If you don’t have access to a sunny window, grow lights can replicate the natural light spectrum that microgreens need to thrive. Fluorescent or LED grow lights work well; many people who grow microgreens indoors rely on them for consistent, healthy growth.
What happens if I let microgreens keep growing?
If you let microgreens keep growing, they will eventually turn into baby greens or fully mature plants, depending on the variety. However, their flavor and texture may change as they mature, and they may lose some of the nutrient density that microgreens are known for. For the best taste and nutrition, it’s best to harvest them when they have their first true leaves.