How to Grow Microgreens Indoors for Year-Round Eating, According to Gardening Experts

Microgreens are an excellent choice for home gardeners due to their ease of cultivation and minimal space requirements. These tiny, nutrient-dense greens can be grown in small trays or containers on a windowsill, making them accessible even in urban environments. With a fast growth cycle of approximately two weeks, you can enjoy a fresh harvest in no time.

Moreover, microgreens can be cultivated year-round, allowing you to incorporate a variety of flavors and textures into your meals no matter the season. Whether you want to elevate your salads, sandwiches, or smoothies, growing microgreens at home is a rewarding (and delicious!) endeavor. Ahead, gardening experts share their valuable tips on growing microgreens year-round in the comfort of your home.

What Are Microgreens?

Microgreens are young plants grown to their cotyledon stage, when the first leaves of the plant emerge from the seed. These first leaves are used as a short-term food supply for the developing plant (also called the seed leaf), says Tara Ghook, co-owner of Joyful Sprouts Organic Farm. Simply put, microgreens are the beginning stages of vegetables and herbs like broccoli, kale, and arugula. Ghook explains that every seed begins as a sprout and then develops into a microgreen. When left to keep growing, it results in the mature fruit, vegetable, nut, or legume that is harvested at its ripest stage.

How to Grow Microgreens

Different microgreens have unique characteristics, so Ghook recommends following the specific instructions on each individual seed packet and selecting organic seeds for the best quality. But she shares the following steps as a general guideline for growing microgreens.

What You'll Need:

• Organic microgreen seeds
• Planting tray or container (10 by 20 grow trays are a good choice)
• Well-draining growing medium (Finely sifted potting soil with amendments or soilless medium blends like coconut coir, hemp mats, or pro-mix)
• Germination heat mats (Not needed if the temperature in your home is 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Light misting spray bottle

Instructions:

1. Fill planting trays or containers with finely sifted growing medium.
2. Lightly moisten the growing medium using a spray bottle on the fine mist setting.
3. Scatter the microgreen seeds over the medium, avoiding overcrowding them to prevent mold.
4. Lightly mist the seeds.
5. Place the grow tray or containers on the germination mat to the proper heating temperature.
6. Cover the seeds so they don't have access to light.
7. Uncover the seeds after three to five days.
8. Introduce the seeds to bright, indirect sunlight or use grow lights.

How to Care for Microgreens

Microgreens are relatively easy to grow, but their light, water, soil, and temperature needs must be met in order to grow and thrive.

Sunlight

Microgreens thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight after a blackout period of three to five days. Place your tray or containers by a west-facing window or supplement with grow lights.

Water

Microgreens need daily watering. Deeper-rooted plants like sunflowers and peas require more water and may need extra attention. By the second day of germination, Ghook recommends bottom-watering. This helps prevent mold by keeping water from being trapped in the seeds' shells, which is especially important for sunflowers and buckwheat.

Soil

Well-draining soil that is light and airy is essential when growing microgreens. “Roots are very fragile during the first few days and require proper aeration to expand and establish,” says Ghook.

Fertilizer

Microgreens don’t require much fertilizer because they are harvested quickly, however adding worm casting or worm tea can help your greens grow larger more quickly.

How to Harvest Microgreens

Microgreens are typically ready to enjoy in less than two weeks after planting. Harvest microgreens once the stems are about 2 inches long and the first small set of leaves have formed, says Eric Nieusma, owner of Maine Hill Farm. To harvest, gently hold a small bundle of stems with your index finger and thumb, then cut the microgreens with scissors right above the soil.

How to Store Microgreens

To store microgreens, Nieusma recommends keeping them uncut in the soil. However, if you choose to cut the microgreens, handle them gently and avoid washing them. Place the cut microgreens loosely in a resealable container. Avoid using a container that is too large, as this can create unnecessary air and moisture. Place a paper towel on the bottom or top of the microgreens to help absorb moisture. Keep microgreens in the refrigerator so they stay fresh for longer. Some microgreens can remain fresh for two to three weeks when stored properly.

Common Mistakes When Growing Microgreens

Microgreens are relatively problem-free, but there are some common pitfalls to be aware of when growing them.

• Watering incorrectly: Microgreens should not be watered from above, as this can cause the stems to sag or bend. Nieusma recommends bottom watering instead.
• Too much sunlight: Ensure microgreens receive the right amount of light, but not excessive light. A fluorescent grow light positioned about 6 inches away from the microgreens is adequate.
• Incorrect temperature: Temperature plays a crucial role in germinating any seed. “Ensure that the room temperature is adequate, or use a seedling mat to achieve optimal germination,” says Nieusma.
• Insufficient airflow: Excess moisture and insufficient airflow can cause delicate sprouts to wilt. Providing some open space around the container when growing microgreens will help.