QUESTION: How many types of microgreens are there? Are there only a few? -Kenneth
ANSWER: There are approximately one hundred (if not more) types of microgreens. Before we dive into a few of your options, let’s explore what a microgreen is, its purpose, and how you may grow them.
Microgreens are young seedlings of a plant. They’re harvested long before they reach maturity. In most cases, you may harvest microgreens after one to three weeks of growth.
The appeal to these greens is they can be grown in small spaces. You should purchase seeds in bulk and plant them densely.
Plus, you get a lot of flavor and nutrients from eating microgreens. They make a wonderful addition to salads, sandwiches, wraps, or a main dish.
In general, any type of vegetable, herb, legume, salad green, or grain can be turned into a microgreen.
The only plants you should avoid growing as a microgreen are nightshade vegetables. They may produce a toxic element that could cause illness.
Most other crops are safe to grow and enjoy in this method. If your diet is lacking nutrients, and you’d like to grow fresh crops at home, in a small space, and on a budget, then microgreens could be for you.
To grow microgreens, you need a foil or plastic pan. Fill it with quality soil, spread pre-soaked seeds in the soil, lightly cover them with dirt, and mist the freshly planted seeds with a spray bottle of water.
Cover the tray with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in a sunny location. Don’t allow the soil to dry out completely. Keep an eye on the tray for one week.
At the end of the week, remove the lid and allow the microgreens to continue to form leaves until they’re ready for harvest.
Now that you understand what a microgreen is and how to grow them, here are a few options to consider growing based upon harvest times:
Microgreens Ready in Seven Days
- Peas
- Radishes
Microgreens Ready in Fifteen Days
- Kale
- Cabbage
- Broccoli
- Cress
- Arugula
- Mustard (and other) greens
Microgreens Ready in Twenty-One Days
- Swiss Chard
- Basil
- Amaranth
- Carrot
- Parsley
- Scallions
- Beets
- Cilantro
You now have a brief overview of microgreens. I love microgreens because you can grow them no matter how little growing space you have available.
Plus, they’re delicious and rich in nutrients. If you need healthy food without breaking the bank, don’t overlook growing your own microgreens. As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from.
More About Microgreens
https://extension.psu.edu/growing-microgreens
https://caldwell.ces.ncsu.edu/2018/02/what-are-microgreens/
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