The Basics of Microgreens
What Are Microgreens
Microgreens are edible seedlings of young greens that are harvested when they are about 1-3 inches tall. They are typically grown from the seeds of vegetables, herbs, and other plants. Unlike sprouts, which are germinated in water, microgreens are grown in soil.
Microgreens can be grown indoors or outdoors, and they do not require a lot of space. They can be grown in trays, pots, or recycled containers such as egg cartons. Microgreens can be harvested 7-14 days after planting, and they can be cut with scissors or a sharp knife.
Types of Microgreens
There are many different types of microgreens, and they can be classified in several ways. The most common classification is by the kind of vegetable or herb they are grown from. For example, some common types of microgreens include radish, kale, arugula, and basil.
Other classifications include color (e.g. red, green, or purple microgreens), by flavor (e.g. spicy, sweet, or savory), or by nutritional value (e.g. high in vitamins A and C, or rich in antioxidants).
To understand the types better, we can divide the microgreens into four main categories:
Herbs: Basil, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, sage, thyme
Spices: Arugula, bok choy, celery seed, chervil, Chinese cabbage, endive, fennel seed, kale, mustards, radish
Vegetables: Beets, broccoli raab, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrot, chard, eggplant, leek, lettuce, peas, spinach
Fruits: Amaranth, arugula, borage, cress, basil, chervil, chives, cilantro/(coriander), dill, endive, fennel, kale, land cress, lettuce, mint, mustard, nasturtium, radish, sorrel
Uses for Microgreens
Microgreens can be used in various ways, and they are a great way to add flavor, color, and nutrition to your meals. For example, they can be used as a garnish, added to salads, or used as a base for green smoothies. Microgreens can also be juiced or used in soups, sandwiches, and wraps.
How to Grow Microgreens
Growing microgreens is easy, and they can be grown indoors or outdoors. All you need is a container, some potting mix, and some seeds.
To start, fill your container with potting mix and dampen it with water. Then, sprinkle your seeds evenly over the surface of the soil. Next, you can use your fingers to press the seeds into the soil lightly.
Next, cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to create a humid environment. Finally, place the container in a warm, sunny spot, and check on it daily to ensure the soil is moist.
Once the seeds have germinated, remove the lid or plastic wrap. Continue to water the soil and fertilize it every two weeks with an all-purpose fertilizer. They are ready to harvest when the microgreens are 1-3 inches tall.
To harvest, cut the microgreens with scissors or a sharp knife. You can cut them at the base of the plant or above the soil line. After cutting, wash the microgreens thoroughly and dry them before using them.
Microgreens are a great way to add flavor, color, and nutrition to your meals. They are easy to grow and can be used in various ways. Try growing some microgreens today!