Growing Microgreens: A Quick and Nutritious Garden Project
Microgreens may be small, but they pack a big punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition. These tiny greens are easy to grow, fast to harvest, and perfect for anyone looking to start a garden project—whether you have a spacious backyard or a small apartment. At Thrive and Rooted, we love sharing how microgreens can transform your meals and your gardening skills.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young plants harvested shortly after sprouting, just as the first true leaves begin to develop. They are more mature than sprouts but younger than baby greens. Common microgreens include:
Sunflower
Radish
Pea shoots
Broccoli
Arugula
These greens are bursting with nutrients and offer intense flavors, making them a popular choice for health-conscious cooks and gardeners.
Why Grow Microgreens?
Microgreens are an ideal gardening project for beginners and seasoned growers alike:
Fast growth: Most microgreens are ready to harvest in 7–14 days.
Compact space: They can be grown indoors on a windowsill, countertop, or balcony.
Nutritional value: Microgreens are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—often containing higher concentrations of nutrients than their mature counterparts.
Versatility: They add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to a variety of dishes.
Getting Started with Microgreens
Growing microgreens is simple and requires minimal equipment. Here’s how to begin:
Gather Supplies
A shallow tray or container (with drainage holes).
Growing medium (organic soil or a microgreen-specific grow mat).
Seeds labeled for microgreen growing.
A spray bottle for watering.
Prepare the Tray
Fill the tray with about 1–2 inches of growing medium. Smooth the surface evenly.
Sow the Seeds
Sprinkle seeds evenly over the soil’s surface. Avoid overcrowding to ensure healthy growth.
Gently press the seeds into the soil without burying them.
Water and Cover
Mist the seeds lightly with water using a spray bottle.
Cover the tray with a lid or another tray to create a dark, moist environment for germination.
Place in Light
After 2–3 days, when seeds have germinated, remove the cover and place the tray in a well-lit area. A sunny windowsill or grow light works well.
Water Daily
Continue misting daily to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Harvesting Your Microgreens
Microgreens are ready to harvest when they’re about 1–3 inches tall and have developed their first set of true leaves (usually 7–14 days after planting). To harvest:
Use clean scissors to snip the greens just above the soil line.
Rinse gently with water and pat dry before using.
How to Use Microgreens
Microgreens are incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any dish. Try them in:
Salads: Add a handful for extra flavor and crunch.
Sandwiches: Layer them in wraps or sandwiches for a fresh kick.
Smoothies: Blend nutrient-packed microgreens like sunflower or kale for a health boost.
Garnishes: Top soups, pizzas, or roasted veggies with microgreens for a vibrant finish.
Tips for Success
Rotate trays: Plant a new batch every week for a continuous supply of fresh greens.
Experiment: Try different seed varieties to discover new flavors and textures.
Reuse responsibly: Compost the soil after harvesting and start fresh with each new batch.
Join Thrive and Rooted’s Microgreen Workshops
At Thrive and Rooted, we offer hands-on workshops to teach you everything you need to know about growing microgreens. From choosing seeds to creative ways to incorporate them into your meals, our programs are perfect for gardeners of all levels.
Growing microgreens is a quick, easy, and rewarding way to bring fresh, nutritious food into your home. Whether you’re a first-time gardener or a seasoned grower, microgreens offer a fun and practical project to enjoy year-round.
Start growing today with Thrive and Rooted—and bring the power of microgreens to your plate!
