How to Grow Microgreens Indoors

Growing microgreens indoors is the easiest of all indoor food growing. These little sprouted seeds are veggie and herb seedlings and can be harvested within weeks. They offer a multitude of flavours from mild to spicy, with nutty and hot ones as well, and you can grow a good amount in small space.  And, bonus, if you harvest them right, microgreens regrow after cutting.

This is one part of indoor vegetable gardening tips to have you growing veggies and herbs even in the smallest space in your home.

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Growing Microgreen Indoors

Every time I hear a news story announcing a product recall of sprouts, microgreens, or salad greens (the ones you buy at the supermarket), I wish an ad would pop up encouraging everyone to grow their own at home.

The problem is not with the actual crops (healthy, fresh, delicious), it’s with the mass-commercialized growing methods. You can avoid any trouble by simply growing your own at home.

What’s the difference between sprouts and microgreens?

• Sprouts are basically germinated seeds. You eat the seed, root, stem, and underdeveloped leaves, usually grown in dark, moist conditions (water).
• Microgreens are planted and grown in soil (or growing medium).  They are the edible seedlings of herbs, vegetables, or edible flowers. They are larger than sprouts and smaller than baby salad greens.

Personally, I avoid sprouts because I’m not good at staying on top of their care.  I prefer to grow microgreens and baby salad greens (see grow leafy salad green indoors).

If you want a really simple gardening project to do with kids, microgreens are great because they are both very fast-growing and edible. Plus, the delicate taste and actual size of the greens seems to entice the littles.

What types of seeds can I grow as microgreens?

Here’s some options recommended in Microgreens:

Microgreens are included in this list of fast-growing vegetables to grow indoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related: How to Grow Herbs Indoors

Tips for Growing Microgreens

• Read your seed packets and provide recommended sowing and growing conditions.
• Use shallow, lightweight containers with drainage.
• Sow one type of seed in each container.
• Some seeds benefit from presoaking (peas, corn, wheatgrass).
• Use organic growing medium intended for food crops. Keep soil (growing medium) moist (not dry or dripping wet).
• Microgreens can grow close together but do allow room for each seed to root.
• Keep warm and covered until sprouted/germinated.
• Once germinated, provide light, air circulation, and maintain moisture.
• Avoid harsh light or heat or they will dry out, wither and die.

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Microgreen Recipe

Recipe ideas in the book include:

• Rice paper rolls
• Salads
• Sandwiches
• Smoothies
• Dressings and dips

That’s about as easy as it gets!

~Melissa the Empress of Dirt ♛