What Exactly Are Microgreens?
Before diving in, let's clarify what microgreens are. They are not a specific type of plant, but rather the young seedlings of edible vegetables and herbs. Harvested just after the first set of true leaves appear, these tiny plants are packed with nutrients
and intense flavours, often more so than their fully-grown counterparts. Unlike sprouts, which are germinated seeds, microgreens are grown in soil or a similar medium and require light, allowing them to develop their leaves and colour. This makes them a vibrant, tasty, and healthy addition to salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish on almost any dish.
The Perfect Solution for Small Spaces
The beauty of windowsill microgreen setups lies in their simplicity and minimal footprint. For apartment dwellers, space is a premium, and traditional gardening is often out of the question. Microgreen trays, however, are compact enough to fit on any sunny windowsill or kitchen counter. They require no deep soil, no complex trellises, and no large pots. You can use specialized 10x10 or 10x20 inch trays, or even clean, recycled plastic takeaway containers to start. This makes it a low-cost, low-commitment way to bring fresh produce into your home, year-round.
Getting Started: Your Essential Toolkit
The list of supplies to begin your microgreen journey is refreshingly short and accessible. You will need a shallow tray, ideally 1-3 inches deep, to hold your growing medium. You can buy specific microgreen trays, some with holes for bottom-watering and a solid tray to catch drips, or simply use a clean takeout container. Next, you'll need a growing medium; a sterile seed-starting mix or coco coir works perfectly. Of course, you need seeds—choose varieties known to be easy for beginners. Finally, a simple spray bottle for misting is essential for the initial stages.
The Easiest Greens for Your First Harvest
Not all microgreens are created equal when it comes to ease of growing. For your first few attempts, it’s best to stick with reliable and fast-growing varieties. Radish is a top choice for beginners because it germinates quickly, often in 1-2 days, and can be ready to harvest in under a week, offering a spicy, satisfying crunch. Broccoli is another excellent option, known for its mild flavour and reliable growth. Other easy-to-grow choices include kale, mustard greens, and pea shoots, which are particularly forgiving and grow well even without perfect lighting conditions.
A Simple Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Ready to plant? Start by filling your tray with about an inch of pre-moistened growing medium, pressing it down gently to create a flat surface. Scatter your seeds evenly across the surface; you want them to be dense but not overlapping. Lightly press the seeds into the soil and give them a good misting with your spray bottle. For the first few days, cover the tray to create a dark, humid environment that encourages germination. Once you see sprouts, remove the cover and move the tray to a spot with plenty of light, like a sunny windowsill. Rotate the tray daily to prevent the greens from leaning too much toward the light.
Watering, Harvesting, and Enjoying
Proper watering is key to preventing mold. For the first few days, misting is sufficient. Once the greens are established, it's better to switch to bottom-watering. Simply place your growing tray (with holes) into a solid tray filled with a bit of water and let the soil absorb it from below for about 15-20 minutes. Most microgreens are ready to harvest in 7 to 14 days, when they are about 2-4 inches tall. To harvest, use a sharp pair of scissors and cut the stems just above the soil level. Give them a gentle rinse, and they are ready to add a fresh, nutritious boost to your meals.
