Tasty microgreens to grow indoors this winter (and all year)

Microgreens are fast and easy to grow indoors and provide a plethora of nutrients

Some of the most flavorful and easy microgreens for indoor growing include radish, broccoli, and pea shoots.

• Radish microgreens are fast and ready in just 5 to 7 days with a crisp, peppery bite that livens up salads and sandwiches.
• Broccoli microgreens have a mild, fresh flavor and are popular for both taste and nutrition.

• Pea shoots are slightly sweet, tender, and great in wraps, stir-fries, or simply snipped onto a plate as a garnish.

For more variety, try sunflower, arugula, and mustard microgreens.

• Sunflower greens are nutty and crunchy, making them especially satisfying. Arugula brings a bold, spicy kick similar to the mature leaf.
• Mustard microgreens range from mildly tangy to quite hot, depending on the variety.

Other popular microgreens to try:
Kale
Lentils
Red-veined Sorrel
Beets
Chives
Curled Cress
Basil
Marigold



All of these grow well on a sunny windowsill or under a simple grow light, need minimal space, and reward you with fresh flavor year-round.

How to Sow and Grow Microgreens Indoors

1. Choose a shallow container and soil
   Use a tray or shallow container with drainage holes. Fill it with 1 to 2 inches of a light potting mix or seed-starting mix. Gently level and lightly moisten the soil before sowing.
2. Sow seeds densely
   Sprinkle seeds evenly over the soil surface. Microgreens are grown close together, so spacing is not critical, just avoid large piles. Lightly press seeds into the soil. Cover only if the variety needs darkness to germinate, such as peas or sunflowers.
3. Water gently
   Mist the surface or water from the bottom by setting the tray in a shallow pan of water until the soil is moist. This prevents seeds from washing away.
4. Cover and germinate
   Place a humidity dome, another tray, or a loose cover over the seeds for the first 2 to 4 days. Even a clear plastic bag tied tightly will work. Keep them in a warm spot. Check daily and remove the cover as soon as seedlings emerge.
5. Provide light
   Move trays to a bright windowsill or under a grow light for at least 6-8 hours a day (more is better). Adequate light keeps microgreens short, sturdy, and flavorful.
   
6. Maintain moisture
   Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Bottom watering works best once seedlings are up to reduce mold risk. Because we live in such a dry climate, it is a good idea to mist the seeds daily.
7. Harvest
   Most microgreens are ready in 7 to 14 days (sometimes even less), when they are 2 to 4 inches tall and have their first true leaves. Use clean scissors to cut just above the soil line.

Helpful tips:

• Use clean trays and fresh soil to prevent mold
• Improve air circulation with a small fan if needed
• Harvest just before eating for best flavor and nutrition
• Find microgreens seeds at your local plant nursery in the seeds section, or order from Johnny's Selected Seeds.
  
  

Microgreens are nutrient-dense with high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are especially rich in vitamins C, E, and K, and have beneficial plant compounds that support overall health.