What is microgreens?

Microgreens are very small, edible seedlings that are typically harvested when they are about 1-3 inches tall. They are similar to sprouts, but they are grown in soil and are allowed to grow for a longer period of time. Microgreens are often used as a garnish or as a way to add flavor, texture, and color to dishes. They can be grown from a wide variety of seeds, including lettuce, kale, arugula, basil, and cilantro, and are often grown in small trays or containers. Microgreens are a good source of nutrients and are sometimes considered to be more nutrient-dense than their fully-grown counterparts.

How to grow microgreens?

Growing microgreens is a relatively easy process, and can be done indoors or outdoors. Here are the basic steps for growing microgreens:

  1. Choose the seeds: You can grow microgreens from a wide variety of seeds, including lettuce, kale, arugula, basil, and cilantro. Choose seeds that are fresh and free from disease.
  2. Choose a container: You can grow microgreens in a tray or container with drainage holes. The container should be at least 2 inches deep.
  3. Prepare the soil: Fill the container with a soil-less seed starting mix and water it well. The soil should be moist, but not soggy.
  4. Plant the seeds: Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface of the soil and lightly press them down into the soil.
  5. Cover the seeds: You can cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, or use a clear plastic cover to help keep the soil moist.
  6. Place the container in a sunny spot: Microgreens need plenty of light to grow, so place the container in a sunny spot or under grow lights.
  7. Water the microgreens: Water the microgreens regularly to keep the soil moist, but be careful not to overwater.
  8. Harvest the microgreens: Microgreens are ready to harvest when they are 1-3 inches tall, usually in about 1-3 weeks. Simply cut the microgreens with scissors at soil level.
  9. Enjoy your microgreens: You can eat your microgreens raw in salads or sandwiches, or use them as a garnish for soups and other dishes. They can also be cooked, but be aware that they may lose some of their nutrients when cooked.

Microgreen seeds types and where to buy it?
There are many different types of seeds that you can use to grow microgreens, including:

  • Lettuce (such as butterhead, romaine, or red leaf)
  • Kale (such as curly or dinosaur)
  • Arugula
  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Mustard greens
  • Radish
  • Beet
  • Swiss chard
  • Spinach
  • Sunflower
  • Pea

You can buy microgreen seeds online or at a garden center or nursery. It is important to choose seeds that are fresh and free from disease, as old or diseased seeds may not germinate or may produce unhealthy plants. Look for seeds that are specifically marketed as being suitable for microgreens, as these will be smaller and more suited for this purpose. When choosing seeds, you can also consider the flavor and color of the microgreens that you would like to grow.

In addition to traditional seed sources, you can also find microgreens seeds at specialty stores that focus on hydroponics or indoor gardening, or through online retailers that specialize in microgreens seeds and supplies. Some of these retailers may offer a wider variety of seed types, as well as pre-packaged seed mixes specifically formulated for growing microgreens.

Benefits of microgreens

There are several potential benefits to incorporating microgreens into your diet:

  1. Nutrient-dense: Microgreens are often considered to be more nutrient-dense than their fully-grown counterparts. They can be a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  2. Flavorful: Microgreens can add flavor, texture, and color to dishes, making them an attractive garnish or ingredient.
  3. Easy to grow: Microgreens are relatively easy to grow at home, even in small spaces, making them a convenient way to have fresh produce on hand.
  4. Long shelf life: Microgreens can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, making them a convenient option for meal planning.
  5. Versatile: Microgreens can be used in a wide variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, soups, and more.

It is important to note that the potential health benefits of microgreens may depend on the type of seed used to grow them, as well as other factors such as soil quality and growing conditions. Additionally, it is important to wash microgreens thoroughly before consuming them, as they may be more prone to contamination than fully-grown produce.


How to choose microgreen growing kit?

When choosing a microgreen growing kit, there are a few factors to consider:

  1. Size: Consider the size of the kit and whether it will fit in your desired location, such as on a windowsill or in a dedicated grow area.
  2. Capacity: Consider how much space you have available for growing microgreens and how many plants you would like to grow at once. Some kits come with multiple trays or containers, allowing you to grow a larger quantity of microgreens at once.
  3. Seed types: Some kits come with a specific type or mix of seeds, while others allow you to choose your own seeds. Consider whether the seeds included in the kit are the types of microgreens that you would like to grow, or whether you prefer to choose your own seeds.
  4. Ease of use: Look for kits that are easy to set up and use, with clear instructions and all the necessary supplies included.
  5. Price: Consider your budget and how much you are willing to spend on a microgreen growing kit.

In addition to these factors, you may also want to consider the overall quality of the kit, including the materials used and the reputation of the manufacturer. Reading reviews from other customers can also be helpful in determining the suitability of a particular kit.

Microgreen business

Starting a microgreen business can be a rewarding way to turn your love of gardening and healthy eating into a profitable venture. Here are some steps to follow if you are interested in starting a microgreen business:

  1. Research the market: Look into the demand for microgreens in your area and determine whether there is a market for your product. You may want to talk to local chefs or retailers to gauge interest.
  2. Choose a location: Decide where you will grow your microgreens. You can grow them indoors in a dedicated space or greenhouse, or outdoors in a garden bed or container.
  3. Set up your growing space: Choose containers or trays for growing your microgreens and set up a watering and lighting system. You will also need to purchase soil and seeds.
  4. Obtain any necessary licenses or permits: Check with your local government to determine whether you need any licenses or permits to sell your microgreens.
  5. Promote your business: Develop a marketing plan to promote your microgreens to potential customers. This may include creating a website, reaching out to local chefs and retailers, and participating in farmers' markets or other events.
  6. Determine your pricing: Research the prices of similar products in your area and consider the cost of your inputs (such as seeds and soil) to determine a competitive price for your microgreens.

Starting a microgreen business can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. It may take time and effort to build a customer base and become profitable, but with hard work and dedication, it is possible to turn your passion into a successful business.