Microgreens, with their richly concentrated nutrients and unrivaled culinary versatility, have seen explosive popularity among home gardeners, professional chefs, and health enthusiasts. Not all microgreens, however, grow at the same pace. Some varieties sprout faster than others, making them an excellent choice for those who want quick and regular harvests. This article delves into five of the fastest growing microgreen varieties: radish, broccoli, arugula, cress, and mustard greens.
1. Radish Microgreens
Radish microgreens top the list for speed, bearing their first true leaves within six to nine days post germination. For this reason, they’re one of the top choices for first-time microgreen farmers.
Aside from their swift growth, radish microgreens possess a distinct peppery flavor that adds a dynamic range to any dish. These greens are packed with vitamin B, C, and potassium, with research showing that they contain up to 40 times more nutrients than mature radishes.
Cultivation is relatively straightforward. Start by evenly spreading the seeds on a well-prepared soil medium or hydroponic setup, keeping them moist under a moderate light condition. Ensure good airflow to prevent damping-off, a common fungal disease among young plants.
2. Broccoli Microgreens
Broccoli microgreens are another speedy sprouter, ready for harvest in just 10 to 14 days. They’re characterized by their vibrant green color and subtle, slightly bitter flavor, making them an excellent addition to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.
These tiny greens are nutritional powerhouses, with research from the US Department of Agriculture showing they contain a wealth of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. They’re particularly rich in sulforaphane, a compound linked to cancer prevention.
Broccoli microgreens prefer slightly cool temperatures, around 22°C (or 72°F), and they thrive best in well-drained soils or coir-based mediums. Maintaining adequate moisture is essential, but overwatering can lead to disease, so balance is key.
3. Arugula Microgreens
Arugula, sometimes known as rocket, is well-known for its rapid growth, typically ready for harvest in 10 to 14 days. The microgreens bring a spicy, peppery flavor that’s stronger than their mature counterparts, perfect for jazzing up salads, pizzas, or pastas.
These superfoods are laden with vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals such as calcium and magnesium. They also feature high levels of nitrates, which are known to enhance athletic performance by improving muscle oxygenation during exercise.
When grown indoors, arugula microgreens prefer temperatures around 20-25°C (or 68-77°F). They prefer a fine soil mix, misted daily to maintain steady moisture, and they should be picked as soon as the first true leaves appear, to reap the best nutrient content.
4. Cress Microgreens
Cress microgreens are not just fast growers – they can be ready to harvest as early as five days after germination. These sprouts bring a unique, tangy flavor to dishes and can be used in sandwiches, salads, or as a garnish.
Rich in calcium, iron, folic acid, and vitamin C, they’re a fast, easy way to pack more nutrients into any meal. Beyond environmental factors, cress microgreens need very little maintenance. They tolerate a wide range of temperatures (though they do best in mild to cool conditions), and they’re resistant to most common pests and diseases.
5. Mustard Microgreens
Rounding out our list are mustard microgreens. They are ready for harvest in about 10 to 14 days and come with an intense, wasabi-like flavor. They are great for adding a hot, spikey edge to salads, stir fry, and even grilled cheese sandwiches.
These microgreens are nutritional dynamites, loaded with vitamins A, C, E, and K. They’re also high in fiber while being low in calories, making them an ideal food for weight management. Mustard microgreens prefer a growing medium of finely milled peat and vermiculite and need to be kept consistently moist in a bright yet indirectly lit spot.
In summary, these five varieties of microgreens – radish, broccoli, arugula, cress, and mustard – are some of the fastest-growing and most nutrient-rich options available. Cultivating these sprouts at home can provide a steady supply of fresh, tasty greens, elevating the flavor of your meals and enriching your diet.
