How to grow and harvest microgreens

What you need to know about microgreens

Name: microgreens, micro herbs, vegetable confetti.

Height: 5-7cm.

Plant type: seedlings of leafy vegetables, herbs, and some flowers.

Climate: all zones.

Soil: seed-raising mix.

Position: full sun.

Foliage: varies depending on the seed type. 

Feeding: not required.

Watering: water regularly to keep the soil moist.

Appearance and characteristics of microgreens

Microgreens are the young seedlings of many edible leafy vegetables, herbs, and some flowers. They are only grown from seed and are harvested once the seedling produces its first true leaves (the second set of leaves after germination). If allowed to continue growing, these seedlings grow into their mature counterparts.

Research has shown that these immature versions of edible plants have significantly more nutritional benefits than their mature forms. The flavour is more robust, too.

Microgreens have a short life. Once they are harvested, the seed-sowing process needs to be repeated for successive picking. It’s a good idea to sow a new batch once every couple of weeks to ensure a continuous supply. Popular microgreens include amaranth, basil, beetroot, kale, lettuce, mustard, peas, rocket, sorrel, sunflower, and watercress.

Uses for microgreens

Microgreens are so versatile. Harvest them to use in sandwiches, salads, smoothies, or any dish that calls for greens. They make a great garnish, too. Try a combination of different microgreens for a complex flavour hit.

How to grow microgreens

Microgreens can only be grown from seed. As they don’t have a long lifespan, they don’t need much room to grow, so any shallow container is perfect – seedling trays, egg cartons or recycled plastic fruit punnets are ideal. Fill containers with seed-raising mix, scatter seeds over the top, and lightly cover. Mist thoroughly to moisten the soil and position in a warm, brightly lit spot, such as a windowsill. Water regularly to keep the seeds and mix moist.

You can also use a purpose-built microgreen growing tray, which doesn’t require seed-raising mix – simply add water. Another alternative is to grow microgreens on unbleached paper towels, but avoid cabbage and carrot seeds as paper towels don’t provide sufficient support for their roots.

Once harvest is over, repeat the seed-sowing process to ensure an ongoing supply of microgreens. If growing microgreens in seed-raising mix, you will need to use fresh mix as existing roots can restrict new growth.

Caring for microgreens

Microgreens need very little care except regular water to ensure they never dry out. Mist thoroughly or use a narrow-spouted watering can to gently water.