As a successful microgreens farmer, I’ve seen firsthand the growing popularity of these tiny plants. Microgreens are not just a culinary trend—they are packed with nutrients and have become a staple in kitchens worldwide. But what exactly are microgreens, and why are they so special?

What Are Microgreens?

Microgreens refer to the tender, young shoots of vegetables, herbs, and even edible flowers, harvested when they are just a few inches tall. Think of them as a “midway” phase between sprouts and baby greens. Sprouts are usually harvested within 2 to 5 days, while microgreens are typically harvested after 7 to 14 days when they have developed their first true leaves.

Microgreens come in many varieties, ranging from vegetables and herbs to grains and edible flowers. Some of the most common types include broccoli, radish, sunflower, and even pea shoots. These little greens, often referred to as “vegetable confetti” or “petite greens,” add vibrant colors and bold flavors to dishes.

Unlike sprouts, microgreens are grown in soil or a growing medium, and only the stem and leaves are consumed, not the roots. When grown correctly, they are safe to eat and offer an incredible boost in nutrition. Research has even shown that microgreens can be up to 40 times more nutrient-dense than their mature counterparts.

Types of Microgreens You Can Grow

There’s a wide variety of microgreens you can grow, each with its own unique flavor profile and growing conditions. Some of the most popular types include:

  • Broccoli Microgreens: A popular choice for its high nutritional value, including a significant amount of sulforaphane, which is believed to have cancer-fighting properties.
  • Sunflower Microgreens: These offer a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, perfect for salads and sandwiches.
  • Pea Shoots: Known for their sweet, mild taste and tender leaves.
  • Radish Microgreens: If you like a spicy kick, radish microgreens are a great option.
  • Popcorn Microgreens: Sweet and tender, these are a fun option for adventurous growers.
  • Celery and Fenugreek Microgreens: These varieties are not as common but can offer unique flavors to culinary dishes.

By experimenting with different types, you can find the microgreens that best suit your taste and growing environment.

Why Microgreens Are So Popular

Microgreens are gaining popularity not only because of their taste and visual appeal but also due to their high nutritional value. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, often more so than their mature counterparts. This makes them a go-to for health-conscious consumers.

Health Benefits of Microgreens:

  • Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K
  • High in antioxidants
  • Supports immune health
  • Promotes heart health
  • Anti-inflammatory properties

Additionally, microgreens can grow year-round, allowing a continuous supply of fresh greens no matter the season.

Starting Your Microgreens Business: Tips for Success

If you’re thinking about starting your own microgreens business, you’re in for an exciting and rewarding journey. Here’s how I got started and how you can too:

1. Choose the Right Microgreens to Grow

  • Begin with Easy Varieties: Start with easy-to-grow varieties like sunflower, pea shoots, and radish. These germinate quickly and have a strong market demand.
  • Research Market Demand: Before growing, investigate what’s popular in your area. Some microgreens, like broccoli and sunflower, are always in demand.

2. Invest in Quality Seeds and Equipment

  • Seeds: Always invest in high-quality, organic seeds designed for microgreens. These will ensure better germination and healthier plants.
  • Trays and Soil: Use shallow trays and a good-quality growing medium. Coconut coir, for example, works great as a sustainable growing medium.
  • Grow Lights: Even though microgreens don’t require much light, investing in LED grow lights ensures uniform growth, especially if you’re growing indoors.

3. Optimize Your Growing Space

  • Space Efficiency: Use shelving units to maximize vertical space. This allows you to grow more microgreens without needing a large footprint.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Keep the environment around 70°F with moderate humidity to encourage healthy growth.
  • Air Circulation: Proper air circulation prevents mold, a common issue when growing microgreens.

4. Master the Growing Process

  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Too much water can encourage mold growth.
  • Lighting: Give your microgreens about 12–16 hours of light per day to support strong growth.
  • Harvesting: Harvest your microgreens when they’ve developed their first true leaves, usually between 7–14 days after planting.

Microgreens vs. Sprouts: What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse microgreens with sprouts, but they are quite different in terms of how they are grown and their final form.

  • Sprouts: Grown in water without soil, and the entire plant is consumed, including the seed.
  • Microgreens: Grown in soil or another growing medium, and only the stem and leaves are consumed.

Microgreens are typically more nutritious than sprouts due to their longer growing period and the presence of leaves, which absorb more nutrients.

The Benefits of Eating Microgreens

As a microgreens farmer, I always promote the health benefits of these tiny plants. Microgreens contain concentrated amounts of essential nutrients and can easily be incorporated into meals. Here are some of their top benefits:

  • Boosts Immunity: With their high antioxidant content, microgreens help support immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
  • Improves Digestion: The fiber content in microgreens aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
  • Supports Weight Loss: Low in calories but high in nutrients, microgreens are a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

These benefits make microgreens an excellent addition to anyone’s diet.

How to Use Microgreens in Cooking

Microgreens aren’t just for salads. They can be used in a variety of dishes to enhance flavor and presentation.

Ways to Use Microgreens:

  • Salads: Use as a base or garnish to add texture and flavor.
  • Smoothies: Add microgreens like sunflower or broccoli to boost the nutritional content.
  • Tacos and Sandwiches: A handful of microgreens can add crunch and color to your favorite wraps and sandwiches.
  • Garnish for Soups: Microgreens like pea shoots make a lovely garnish for soups, adding a fresh and vibrant touch.

By experimenting with different recipes, you can find creative ways to include these nutrient-dense greens in your meals.

What Are the Easiest Microgreens to Grow?

If you’re just starting out, it’s best to begin with varieties that are easy to grow and have a quick turnaround time. These include:

  • Radish Microgreens: Ready in 5–7 days and have a bold, spicy flavor.
  • Sunflower Microgreens: Harvested in 7–10 days and have a sweet, nutty taste.
  • Pea Shoots: These grow quickly and can be harvested in about 10 days.

These easy-to-grow varieties are perfect for beginners and are also highly marketable.

Best Microgreens for Selling

If you’re planning to sell your microgreens, it’s important to focus on varieties that are in high demand and offer a good profit margin. From my experience, here are the best-selling microgreens:

  • Broccoli: A top seller due to its high nutritional content.
  • Sunflower: These are very popular for their sweet flavor and crunchy texture.
  • Radish: The spicy kick makes them a favorite in the culinary world.

Offering a variety of microgreens can also help you appeal to a broader market, so don’t be afraid to try new types.

Microgreens Business Insights: Costs and Profitability

Starting a microgreens business can be a low-cost investment with high potential returns. When I started, I was amazed at how quickly the business grew, and here’s what I learned about managing costs and profits:

Initial Setup Costs:

  • Seeds: ~$20–$50 depending on the variety and quantity.
  • Trays and Grow Lights: Around $100–$300 to set up a basic growing system.
  • Soil or Growing Medium: Around $30–$60 for a bulk supply of coconut coir or potting soil.

With just a small initial investment, you can set up a microgreens farm and start seeing profits within a few weeks.

Selling Your Microgreens:

There are multiple ways to sell microgreens:

  • Local Farmers’ Markets: Great for connecting with local customers.
  • Restaurants: High demand for microgreens as a garnish and ingredient.
  • Subscription Boxes: Offer weekly or monthly microgreens delivery to health-conscious customers.

By diversifying your sales channels, you can reach a broader audience and increase profitability.

What Happens if Microgreens Are Not Harvested?

If you let your microgreens grow beyond their ideal harvest time, they can lose some of their flavor and texture. Additionally, the stems may become too tough, and the leaves may turn yellow. It’s essential to harvest them at the right time to ensure the best quality.

Conclusion: Start Growing and Reap the Benefits of Microgreens

Whether you’re growing for personal use or thinking about starting a business, microgreens are a fantastic choice. They are easy to grow, packed with nutrients, and have a wide range of uses in cooking. As a microgreens farmer, I can confidently say that with the right setup and knowledge, you can succeed in this rewarding field.

Get started today, and in just a few weeks, you’ll be enjoying fresh, nutritious microgreens right from your own farm!