The Complete Microgreens Guide
Grow nutrient-dense superfoods on your windowsill year-round. From seed to harvest in just 7-14 days with 40x the nutrition of mature vegetables.
“Blackout period builds strong stems before light exposure”
Tiny plants, massive nutrition
4-40x More Nutrients
Studies show microgreens contain 4-40 times the nutrients of their mature counterparts by weight.
Concentrated Vitamins
Packed with vitamins C, E, and K - often with higher concentrations than full-grown vegetables.
Powerful Antioxidants
Rich in polyphenols and carotenoids that help fight oxidative stress and inflammation.
Complete in Days
Harvest in 7-21 days - the fastest farm to table you can achieve at home.
Popular Microgreen Varieties
Start with easy varieties and work your way up to more challenging ones
Sunflower
Flavor: Nutty, crunchy, slightly sweet
Nutrition: High in protein, zinc, and vitamin E
Tip: Soak seeds 8-12 hours, weight during germination
Pea Shoots
Flavor: Sweet, fresh pea flavor
Nutrition: Rich in vitamin C, folate, and fiber
Tip: Soak seeds overnight, can regrow for second harvest
Radish
Flavor: Spicy, peppery kick
Nutrition: High in vitamin C and antioxidants
Tip: Fast grower, no pre-soaking needed
Broccoli
Flavor: Mild, slightly bitter
Nutrition: 40x more sulforaphane than mature broccoli
Tip: Keep moist but not wet, good airflow
Wheatgrass
Flavor: Sweet, grassy
Nutrition: Chlorophyll, iron, amino acids
Tip: Popular for juicing, soak seeds 8 hours
Cilantro
Flavor: Intense cilantro flavor
Nutrition: Vitamin K, antioxidants
Tip: Slower to germinate, split seeds before soaking
Basil
Flavor: Concentrated basil flavor
Nutrition: Vitamin K, manganese, antioxidants
Tip: Needs warmth (70-75°F), mucilaginous seeds
Arugula
Flavor: Peppery, mustard notes
Nutrition: Vitamin K, folate, calcium
Tip: Fast grower, harvest before first true leaves
How to Grow Microgreens
Prepare Your Tray
Fill a shallow tray with 1-2 inches of moist potting mix. Level and lightly press down.
Sow Seeds Densely
Spread seeds evenly and densely across the surface. Most varieties: 10-12 seeds per square inch.
Blackout Period
Cover with another tray (weighted) or dome. Keep in darkness 3-5 days until seeds germinate.
Uncover & Light
Once sprouted, remove cover. Place in bright indirect light or under grow lights 12-16 hours/day.
Water & Wait
Mist daily or bottom-water. Maintain humidity without waterlogging. Good airflow prevents mold.
Harvest
Cut just above soil line when first true leaves appear (usually 7-14 days). Use sharp scissors.
What You Need to Start
Pro tip: Look for organic, untreated microgreen seeds at your local farmers market. Many growers sell starter kits and can give you personalized advice for your growing conditions.
Common Problems & Solutions
Mold growth
Improve airflow, reduce watering, lower humidity. Use a small fan.
Leggy/tall stems
Need more light. Move closer to window or add grow light.
Seeds not germinating
Check seed freshness, ensure adequate moisture, try pre-soaking.
Yellowing leaves
Too little light or overwatering. Adjust accordingly.
Slow growth
Temperature too cold. Microgreens prefer 65-75°F.
Bitter taste
Harvested too late. Cut when cotyledons are fully open.
Find Fresh Microgreens at Farmers Markets
While you're learning to grow your own, discover professionally-grown microgreens from local urban farmers at markets near you.