Full List of Types of Microgreens + How to Grow from Seeds

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Last Updated on March 14, 2024

There are so many different types of microgreens; it can be difficult to know where to start. Let’s take a look at all the different tiny greens you can grow yourself EASILY. We’ll look at how difficult (or easy) each type of microgreen is to grow, flavor profile, germination, and harvesting. You’ll have your own little microgreen farm growing in no-time!

Types of Microgreens

There are many different types of microgreens, some you may not have even realized could be eaten as tiny greens (such as chives and garlic). Personally, my favorite microgreen is broccoli sprouts, although, techinally sprouts are younger than microgreens and shoots.

Don’t let the small size fool you! The nutritional value of these tiny leafy greens are a great addition to a healthy diet. I take a broccoli sprout supplement every day that helps my RA joint pain. This was a surprise answer to my pain relief when I used broccoli sprouts to treat h.pylori.

What are Microgreens?

Microgreens are tiny, edible plants that are harvested at the seedling stage. Think of them as miniature versions of their fully mature counterparts.

Benefits of Microgreens

Microgreens are fast growing and packed with flavor and health benefits, making them a popular choice for health-conscious foodies.

Nutrient-dense: All types of microgreens are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a powerhouse of nutrition in small quantities.
Increased nutrient absorption: Studies suggest that consuming different types microgreens may enhance your body’s ability to absorb nutrients from other foods due to their high nutrient content.
Antioxidant-rich: Microgreens are known to have higher antioxidant levels than mature plants.

Microgreens Vs Shoots Vs Sprouts

Let’s take a look at the world of microgreens and compare microgreens to shoots and sprouts. While all three fall under the category of young plants, there are some key differences.

Microgreens

Microgreens are typically grown in soil or growing mats, allowing them to develop their first set of true leaves. These leaves are rich in nutrients like vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants.

Shoots

Shoots refer to the tender stems and leaves that emerge from germinating seeds. Unlike microgreens, shoots don’t require soil for growth. Shoots have a mild taste and a crunchy texture that adds a delightful freshness to salads or sandwiches.

Sprouts

Sprouts are even younger than microgreens and shoots. They are produced by soaking seeds in water until they germinate into small sprouted plants with underdeveloped leaves. Sprouts have a distinct crunchiness and subtle flavor that can elevate dishes like stir-fries or wraps.

List of Types Microgreens

Here’s a HUGE list of types of microgreens that you can grow yourself with a little space. For growing tips, see below.

Broccoli Microgreens

Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Flavor: Mild and slightly bitter taste
Appearance: Tiny, dark green leaves with thin stems
Germination Rate: 2-4 days
Time Before Harvesting: 6-10 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires cool temperatures)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Radish Microgreens

Also read: Health Benefits of Radish Sprouts

Plant Family: Brassicaceae
Flavor: Peppery flavor with a little spicy kick
Appearance: Small, vibrant green leaves with red stems
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Beet Microgreens

Also read: Health Benefits of Beetroot Leaves

Plant Family: Amaranthaceae
Flavor: Earthy and slightly sweet
Appearance: Dark purple leaves with red veins
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 14-16 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Kale Microgreens

Also read: Health Benefits of Kale Juice

Plant Family: Brassicaceae
Flavor: Earthy and slightly bitter
Appearance: Dark green leaves with textured edges
Germination Rate: 3-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Hemp

Plant Family: Cannabaceae
Flavor: Nutty and slightly sweet
Appearance: Small, delicate green leaves
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium (requires proper light and temperature)
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes, for 24 hours

Fennel

Plant Family: Apiaceae
Flavor: Mildly sweet with a hint of licorice
Appearance: Feathery, light green leaves
Germination Rate: 7-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 12-16 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium (requires consistent moisture)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Garlic

Also read: Health Benefits of Quercetin in Garlic

Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae
Flavor: Strong, pungent, and garlicky
Appearance: Thin green leaves with white roots
Germination Rate: 7-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Chard

Plant Family: Amaranthaceae
Flavor: Earthy and slightly bitter
Appearance: Vibrant green or colorful leaves with red, yellow, or white stems
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Dill

Plant Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)
Flavor: Fresh, aromatic, and slightly tangy with hints of anise and lemon
Appearance: Feathery green leaves with delicate stems
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 14-21 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Watercress

Plant Family: Brassicaceae
Flavor: Peppery and slightly bitter
Appearance: Small round leaves with thin stems
Germination Rate: 7-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 12-16 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Corn

Plant Family: Poaceae
Flavor: Sweet and crunchy
Appearance: Green leaves with tall stems
Germination Rate: 3-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Chia

Plant Family: Lamiaceae
Flavor: Nutty and slightly sweet
Appearance: Small oval-shaped leaves with thin stems
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Carrot

Also read: Health Benefits of Carrot Leaves & Carrot Leaf Tea

Plant Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)
Flavor: Mild, earthy, and slightly sweet
Appearance: Thin green leaves with delicate orange roots
Germination Rate: 7-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Oregano

Oregano is my go-to for treating any sort of virus or infection. I have used it for over a decade for all sorts of things, preferring ADP oregano for better absorption.

Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Flavor: Strong, aromatic, and slightly bitter
Appearance: Small green leaves with woody stems
Germination Rate: 10-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 14-21 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Buckwheat

Plant Family: Polygonaceae (Buckwheat family)
Flavor: Mild and nutty
Appearance: Heart-shaped green leaves with slender stems
Germination Rate: 3-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Endive

Plant Family: Asteraceae
Flavor: Slightly bitter and nutty
Appearance: Delicate green leaves with curly edges
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Pea Microgreens

Plant Family: Fabaceae
Flavor: Sweet and crisp
Appearance: Small green leaves with tendrils on thin stems
Germination Rate: 3-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
How Easy to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Pea Microgreens Vs Pea Shoots

While both pea microgreens and pea shoots come from the same plant, they differ in terms of age, size, and flavor.

Pea microgreens are commonly used as a great garnish or added to salad greens for their visual appeal and subtle flavor. Pea shoots can be stir-fried or sautéed like other leafy greens and used as an ingredient in various dishes.

Parsley

Plant Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)
Flavor: Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly tangy
Appearance: Dark green leaves with curly or flat foliage
Germination Rate: 15-20 days
Time Before Harvesting: 20-30 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm can also be consumed as a type of tea to help ease stress and help insomnia!

Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Flavor: Citrusy and minty with a hint of sweetness
Appearance: Bright green leaves with serrated edges
Germination Rate: 10-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 14-21 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Tarragon

Plant Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Flavor: Anise-like, slightly sweet
Appearance: Delicate green leaves with slender stems
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Purslane

Plant Family: Portulacaceae (Purslane family)
Flavor: Slightly tangy, lemony
Appearance: Small, succulent leaves with reddish stems
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Mustard Microgreens

Also Read: Collard Greens Vs Mustard Greens Vs Turnip Greens

Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Flavor: Spicy, peppery
Appearance: Vibrant green leaves with serrated edges
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to Medium (depending on variety)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Sorrel

Plant Family: Polygonaceae
Flavor: Tangy, lemon-like
Appearance: Small, tender green leaves
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Bamboo

Plant Family: Poaceae
Flavor: Mild, grassy
Appearance: Thin, elongated green shoots
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Cilantro Microgreens

Plant Family: Apiaceae
Flavor: Fresh, citrusy with a hint of spice
Appearance: Delicate green leaves with a distinct aroma
Germination Rate: 7-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15 – 20 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Mesclun

Plant Family: Various leafy greens (mixed)
Flavor: Mild and slightly peppery
Appearance: Assortment of colorful and textured leaves
Germination Rate: 5 – 7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10 – 14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Sunflower Microgreens

Plant Family: Asteraceae
Flavor: Nutty and crunchy
Appearance: Vibrant green leaves and stems with yellow petals
Germination Rate: 7 – 10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10 – 14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Mung Bean

Plant Family: Fabaceae
Flavor: Fresh and slightly sweet
Appearance: Small green leaves with tender stems
Germination Rate: 3 – 5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7 – 10 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes, for 4-6 hours

Cress

Plant Family: Brassicaceae
Flavor: Peppery and tangy
Appearance: Dark green, delicate leaves with thin stems
Germination Rate: 2-4 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Sage

Plant Family: Lamiaceae
Flavor: Earthy, savory
Appearance: Small, oval-shaped gray-green leaves
Germination Rate: 10-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 20-30 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Kohlrabi Microgreens

Plant Family: Brassicaceae
Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet
Appearance: Round, green leaves with purple stems
Germination Rate: 2-3 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Micro Collard Greens

Plant Family: Brassicaceae
Flavor: Earthy and slightly bitter
Appearance: Dark green, ruffled leaves
Germination Rate: 2-3 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Pumpkin

Plant Family: Cucurbitaceae
Flavor: Mild and nutty
Appearance: Small, rounded leaves with yellow-orange coloration
Germination Rate: 4-6 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Arugula Microgreens

Also read: Health Benefits of Arugula

Plant Family: Brassicaceae
Flavor: Peppery and nutty
Appearance: Dark green, spiky leaves
Germination Rate: 4-6 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8-12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Barley

Plant Family: Poaceae
Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet
Appearance: Green grass-like blades
Germination Rate: 2-3 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-10 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires some attention)
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Garbanzo

Plant Family: Fabaceae
Flavor: Fresh and nutty
Appearance: Small green leaves with yellowish stems
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium difficulty (requires careful watering)
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Orach

Plant Family: Amaranthaceae
Flavor: Mild and slightly tangy
Appearance: Vibrant green leaves with a hint of red or purple depending on the variety
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Marjoram

Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Flavor: Sweet and aromatic, similar to oregano
Appearance: Small, delicate leaves with a bright green color
Germination Rate: 7-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Mint

Plant Family: Lamiaceae
Flavor: Refreshing and minty
Appearance: Small, tender leaves with a vibrant green color
Germination Rate: 7 to 14 days
Time Before Harvesting: Approximately 2 to 4 weeks after germination
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Amaranth

Also read: Pseudo Grains: What You Need to Know

Plant Family: Amaranthaceae
Flavor: Mild and slightly earthy
Appearance: Small and delicate leaves with vibrant colors ranging from red to green
Germination Rate: 3 to 7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10 to 14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Fava

Plant Family: Fabaceae
Flavor: Earthy, nutty
Appearance: Large green leaves with a mild crunch
Germination Rate: 7-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Dandelion

Plant Family: Asteraceae
Flavor: Bitter, peppery
Appearance: Dark green serrated leaves
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 14-21 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Chicory

Also read: Chicory Root Coffee Recipe

Plant Family: Asteraceae
Flavor: Bitter, slightly spicy
Appearance: Deep green elongated leaves with white veins
Germination Rate: 5-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: Up to a month or longer depending on desired size and bitterness level (baby greens can be harvested after about two weeks)
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Marigold

Plant Family: Asteraceae
Flavor: Mildly spicy and tangy
Appearance: Small, vibrant green leaves with yellow and orange flowers
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Lentil

Also read: Beans Vs Legumes | How to Remove Lectins from Lentils

Plant Family: Fabaceae
Flavor: Earthy and slightly nutty
Appearance: Tiny, dark green cotyledon leaves
Germination Rate: 2-3 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-10 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Adzuki

Plant Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
Flavor: Nutty, slightly sweet
Appearance: Small, oval-shaped leaves with reddish-brown color
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Lemongrass

Plant Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
Flavor: Citrusy, lemon-like
Appearance: Long, thin green blades
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 21-28 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Quinoa

Plant Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranth family)
Flavor: Earthy, nutty
Appearance: Delicate green leaves with a slight red hue
Germination Rate: 2-4 days
Time Before Harvesting: 10-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Leek

Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae
Flavor: Mild onion-like flavor
Appearance: Thin, green leaves with white bulbs
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15-25 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Cucumber

Plant Family: Cucurbitaceae
Flavor: Refreshing and mild cucumber flavor
Appearance: Thin, elongated leaves with tendrils
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 20-30 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires proper support)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Soy

Plant Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
Flavor: Nutty and earthy flavor
Appearance: Small green leaves with delicate stems
Germination Rate: 5–10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7–21 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium difficulty (requires specific growing conditions)
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Fenugreek

Plant Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
Flavor: Bitter, nutty flavor with a hint of maple syrup sweetness
Appearance: Tiny leaflets on delicate stems, with a slight yellow hue
Germination Rate: 3 – 5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8 – 12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Mizuna

Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Flavor: Peppery and slightly bitter taste
Appearance: Feathery green leaves with serrated edges
Germination Rate: 3 – 5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8 – 12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Chive

Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae (Onion family)
Flavor: Mild onion flavor with a hint of garlic
Appearance: Thin, cylindrical leaves with purple flowers
Germination Rate: 7 – 14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15 – 25 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Borage

Plant Family: Boraginaceae
Flavor: Fresh and slightly cucumber-like taste
Appearance: Large, oval-shaped leaves with hairy stems and blue flowers
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 20-30 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires well-drained soil)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Lettuce Microgreens

Plant Family: Asteraceae
Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet flavor
Appearance: Tender green leaves in various shapes and textures
Germination Rate: 2-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8-16 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Scallion

Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae (Onion family)
Flavor: Mild onion flavor
Appearance: Long, hollow green shoots with small white bulbs at the base
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15-25 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires proper spacing)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Basil Microgreens

Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Flavor: Intense and aromatic with hints of anise and pepper
Appearance: Small, oval-shaped leaves with a vibrant green color
Germination Rate: 5-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15-25 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires warmth and sunlight)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Clover

Plant Family: Faboideae (Legume subfamily)
Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet taste
Appearance: Serrated round leaflets on delicate stems
Germination Rate: 2 – 4 days
Time Before Harvesting: 6 – 10 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Spinach

Plant Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranth family)
Flavor: Mild and slightly earthy taste
Appearance: Tender green leaves with a smooth texture
Germination Rate: 2-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8-16 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Thyme

Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Flavor: Intense and aromatic with a strong herbal taste
Appearance: Small, narrow leaves with a grayish-green color
Germination Rate: 7-14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15-25 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires well-drained soil)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Wheatgrass

Plant Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
Flavor: Slightly bitter and grassy taste
Appearance: Tall, slender leaves resembling blades of grass
Germination Rate: 2-3 days
Time Before Harvesting: 7-14 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy to medium difficulty (requires proper watering)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Alfalfa

Plant Family: Faboideae (Legume subfamily)
Flavor: Mild and slightly nutty taste
Appearance: Small, delicate leaves with thin stems
Germination Rate: 3 – 5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8 – 12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: Yes

Turnip

Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Flavor: Peppery and slightly bitter taste
Appearance: Tiny round or elongated leaves with green or purple coloration
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8-12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Also see: Rutabagas Vs Turnips

Cauliflower

Also read: Cruciferous Vegetables List

Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet taste
Appearance: Tiny, pale green leaves with compact heads
Germination Rate: 2-4 days
Time Before Harvesting: 6-10 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium difficulty (requires cool temperatures)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Cabbage

Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Flavor: Crisp and slightly sweet taste
Appearance: Tiny, round or elongated leaves with green or purple coloration
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8-12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Collard

Plant Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
Flavor: Mild and slightly bitter taste
Appearance: Tender, dark green leaves with thick stems
Germination Rate: 2-7 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8-16 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Celery

Plant Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)
Flavor: Mild and slightly salty taste
Appearance: Tiny, feathery leaves with thin stems
Germination Rate: 5-10 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15-25 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium difficulty (requires proper moisture)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Rutabaga

- Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
- Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet taste
- Appearance: Tiny, round or elongated leaves with green or purple coloration
- Germination Rate: 3-5 days
- Time Before Harvesting: 8-12 days
- Difficulty to Grow: Easy
- Pre-soak Seeds: No

Anise

Plant Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)
Flavor: Intense and aromatic with a licorice-like taste
Appearance: Tiny, feathery leaves with thin stems
Germination Rate: 7 – 14 days
Time Before Harvesting: 15 – 25 days
Difficulty to Grow: Easy
Pre-soak Seeds: No

Brussels Sprouts

Plant Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
Flavor: Bitter and slightly nutty taste
Appearance: Tiny round or elongated leaves in compact clusters
Germination Rate: 3-5 days
Time Before Harvesting: 8-12 days
Difficulty to Grow: Medium difficulty (requires cool temperatures)
Pre-soak Seeds: No

How to Grow Microgreens Indoors

To grow microgreens indoors, follow these simple steps:

Select your microgreen seeds: Choose a variety of microgreen seeds that you would like to grow. Popular options include broccoli, kale, radish, and sunflower.
Prepare the growing container: Use a shallow tray or a seedling tray with drainage holes at the bottom. Fill it with a thin layer of potting soil or a seed-starting mix.
Sow the seeds: Sprinkle the microgreen seeds evenly across the surface of the soil. You can sow them densely as they will be harvested at an early stage.
Watering: Gently water the soil using a spray bottle or by pouring water slowly over the surface. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Provide adequate light: Place the tray in a location where it will receive ample sunlight like a sunny windowsill or use an artificial grow light if natural light is limited.
Maintain optimal temperature and humidity: Microgreens thrive in in cooler temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C). Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold growth.
Harvesting: Once the microgreens have reached their desired height (usually around 1-3 inches), harvest them by cutting just above the soil level using clean scissors or a sharp knife.

Microgreen growing Kit — DIY Microgreen Growing Kit

Tips for Growing Microgreens

It can be difficult to find many types of microgreens at grocery stores, so growing your own is a great way to save money and get the type of microgreen you want. These tiny greens are an easy grower, even for those who don’t have a green thumb!

Pre-soak Large Seeds: To improve the germination of larger microgreen seeds like peas and sunflowers, it is recommended to soak them for a few hours before planting. This will help enhance their growth potential.
Choose a Sunny Spot: When planting microgreens, it is important to choose a well-lit area that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. This will provide the necessary light energy for their development.
Mist Seeds Daily: To maintain optimal moisture levels in the soil, you should mist the seeds daily. This will ensure that the soil remains adequately moist, promoting healthy growth.
Harvest Microgreens: Once the microgreens have reached a height of 2-3 inches and their first seed leaves have unfurled, they are ready to be harvested. It is important to cut them at this stage to enjoy their freshness and flavor.
Keep Watering for Additional Harvests: Even after harvesting, it is beneficial to continue misting the remaining seeds. In some cases, you may even be fortunate enough to get a second or third harvest from a single planting tray before needing to sow more seeds.

The Easiest Microgreens to Grow

These types of microgreens are beginner-friendly, require basic care, and provide abundant yields:

Radish microgreens: Radish microgreens are quick to germinate and grow within a week. They have a mild spicy flavor and add a nice crunch to salads and sandwiches.
Sunflower microgreens: Sunflower microgreens are also easy to grow and have a nutty flavor. They mature in about 10-14 days and can be used in various dishes like stir-fries and smoothies.
Pea shoots: Pea shoots are tender and sweet, with a slightly earthy taste. They require minimal maintenance and can be harvested in just 2-3 weeks.
Broccoli microgreens: Broccoli microgreens are packed with nutrients and have a mild, fresh flavor. They typically take around 7-10 days to grow and can be used in salads, soups, or as a garnish.

Final Summary

By exploring the different types of microgreens, you can choose the ones that suit your preferences. From arugula and basil to radish and sunflower, there is a wide range of options available to experiment with in the kitchen.

Whether you have limited space or a full-fledged garden, cultivating all types of microgreens is an accessible and rewarding experience. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy fresh and nutritious greens right at your fingertips.