Firstly, let’s define what microgreens are. Microgreens are nutrient-dense, infant versions of herbs or vegetables. Think of them as the babies of the plant world, harvested just after the initial leaves have developed. They’re not to be confused with sprouts, which are grown in water and dished up roots and all. The term “microgreen” is not a scientific classification as much as a marketing term for young, edible greens produced from the seeds of vegetables, herbs, or other plants.
Microgreens are famous for their vibrant colors and intense flavors, ranging from mild to spicy, sour to bitter. They are rich in various types of nutrients, including antioxidants. According to a USDA study, all microgreens possess high levels of nutrients compared to mature vegetables and herbs. They are great for small apartments for a variety of reasons. The most compelling being that they are very easy to grow and don’t require much space. The small amount of space required for growing microgreens makes the process a great fit for apartments and limited spaces.
Getting started with growing microgreens requires a basic setup: a growing medium (like soil), seeds, and a container. You can find microgreen kits online or at a local gardening store that include everything you need. Even without a full kit, it’s pretty straightforward to source these items separately.
Now, microgreens can be grown in any clear flat container, such as an unused takeaway container or an old roasting dish. If the container doesn’t have drainage holes, you can simply poke them yourself. Spread an inch or so of soil or coconut coir across the bottom of your tray. Moisten the soil before scattering a dense layer of seeds across the surface. Then, cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or coir and gently press down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Your microgreen seeds need to be kept warm and moist to germinate, but not waterlogged. A healthy watering routine includes lightly misting your microgreens daily or ensuring that the soil remains damp but not soaking. Once the seedlings have sprouted, they’ll need plenty of light. A sunny windowsill should do the trick, but if you’re lacking in the natural light department, an LED grow light can supplement quite nicely.
Microgreens start to be ready for harvest when their first true leaves develop, usually within 10-14 days of planting. To harvest, simply snip the stems just above the soil line. Always remember to harvest your microgreens when they’re dry to avoid promoting decay.
In terms of what you can grow, the choices are extensive. Some popular options include radishes, peas, mustards, beets, broccoli, cabbages, lettuces, and a variety of herbs. Brassica microgreens are particularly beneficial from a health perspective, boasting a high concentration of vitamins C, E, and K. Common brassicas include broccoli, kale, radish, and mustard greens.
Radishes, with their spicy, peppery flavor, are some of the easiest and fastest microgreens to grow, often ready within a week. Pea shoots have a fresh, sweet flavor and are fantastic in salads or as a garnish. Beetroot microgreens have beautiful, vibrant leaves, and an earthy taste that’s delightful in salads, while sunflower microgreens are nutty, crunchy, and excellent in sandwiches.
Let’s not forget about herbs. Herbs such as basil, cilantro, and dill can be grown as microgreens too. You’ll need to wait a little longer for herbs, with most ready in around three weeks, but they’re well worth the wait. Their intense flavors are incredible when stirred through pasta, sprinkled over pizza, or used as a garnish for soup.
When starting out with your microgreen garden, it’s a good idea to experiment with a few varieties to identify your favorites. Try adding a handful of microgreens to meals as a flavorful, nutritious garnish. Blend them into smoothies, fold them into scrambled eggs, or even use them as pizza toppings. The options are infinite.
In conclusion, microgreens can be the perfect solution for small apartment dwellers with a passion for fresh, homegrown produce. They’re easy to grow, don’t take up much space, and are packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re lacking in outdoor space or just love the idea of harvesting fresh greens from your windowsill, growing microgreens is a rewarding, enjoyable activity that pays off in delightful, nutritious harvests.
