How to Grow Microgreens
Wikimedia Commons
Microgreens
Various species (seedlings of herbs, vegetables, and grains)
vegetableMicrogreens are young seedlings of vegetables, herbs, and grains harvested at 1-3 weeks old, before the first true leaves fully develop. They are nutrient-dense, flavorful, and grown indoors in compact spaces with minimal soil. Popular varieties include broccoli, radish, mustard, sunflower, and pea shoots.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Microgreens in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Microgreens timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Microgreens
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Microgreens
Around Apr 24≈ 7 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Microgreens dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →All zones (indoor growing, climate-independent)
Sign up free to see if Microgreens grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Microgreens timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Root Development
3-5 daysSeeds absorb moisture and germinate; white root tips emerge; no visible shoots yet
Keep soil moist; maintain 60-70°F temperature; provide darkness (cover tray with damp cloth or blackout cover for 3-5 days)
Hypocotyl Elongation (Blackout Phase)
3-7 daysSeedlings develop long, pale stems reaching toward light; cotyledons (seed leaves) remain folded
Maintain blackout conditions for most varieties (except large seeds like sunflower); keep soil consistently moist; provide warm, humid environment
Cotyledon Emergence & Greening
2-5 daysSeedlings begin stretching, cotyledons expand and open, chlorophyll develops turning them green; stems strengthen
Introduce light gradually over 1-2 days; increase to 14-16 hours of bright light daily; maintain humidity; begin air circulation with gentle fan
Development & First True Leaves
3-7 daysCotyledons fully expanded and green; first true leaves begin to appear; plant develops flavor compounds and nutrients
Maintain consistent moisture (avoid waterlogging); ensure excellent air circulation to prevent fungal issues; harvest before true leaves fully mature
Harvest Readiness
Varies by variety; typically 10-21 days totalMicrogreens reach 1.5-3 inches tall with vibrant color and developed flavor; ready for cutting above soil line
Cut in morning after misting; use clean, sharp scissors; harvest before true leaves fully expand for best tenderness
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Ensure excellent air circulation with fans; avoid overwatering; use sterile growing medium; maintain humidity below 70%; remove affected trays immediately
-
Use sterile, well-draining seed-starting mix; avoid excessive moisture; maintain good air circulation; provide bright light early to strengthen stems
-
Use sterile equipment and growing medium; sanitize trays between crops with diluted bleach; wash hands before handling; source seeds from reputable suppliers
-
Maintain indoor growing environment; keep area clean; ensure good air circulation
Uses
Fresh garnish & salad addition
CulinaryMicrogreens add vibrant color, tender texture, and concentrated flavor to salads, sandwiches, sushi, soups, and plated dishes. Each variety (broccoli, radish, mustard, pea) imparts distinct, intense flavors in small quantities. [source]
Pesto & sauce base
CulinaryMicrogreens can be blended into pestos, dressings, and smoothies for concentrated herbal or vegetable flavors without requiring large quantities. Basil, cilantro, and arugula microgreens work particularly well. [source]
Nutrient supplementation
MedicinalMicrogreens contain 4-40 times higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to mature plants. Broccoli microgreens are particularly high in sulforaphane, a compound studied for potential anti-cancer properties. [source]
Indoor food production
HouseholdMicrogreens require minimal space (flat trays on shelves or windowsills), no soil outdoor space, and rapid harvest cycles, making them ideal for apartments, small homes, and year-round indoor gardening. [source]
Decorative plating
CraftChefs use colorful microgreens to enhance visual appeal and sophistication of plated dishes in fine dining and specialty restaurants, with varieties like purple cabbage and radish providing striking colors. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest microgreens when cotyledons are fully expanded and first true leaves are just beginning to emerge, typically 10-21 days after sowing depending on variety. Cut stems 1-2 inches above the soil line using clean, sharp scissors in the morning for best flavor and shelf life. Wash gently and use immediately or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 7-10 days. For pea and sunflower shoots, harvest when stems are 2-3 inches tall and leaves are just unfurling.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Microgreens can be 4-40 times more nutrient-dense than their mature plant counterparts; for example, broccoli microgreens contain up to 50 times more sulforaphane than mature broccoli.
- 🌱 A single shallow tray of microgreens (typically 10x20 inches) can produce 1-2 pounds of fresh, nutrient-dense greens in just 10-21 days under indoor grow lights.
- 🌱 Microgreens have become a trendy superfood in high-end restaurants and health-conscious cuisine since the 1980s, but the concept of eating immature plants dates back centuries in Asian culinary traditions.
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Microgreens planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Microgreens seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Microgreens timeline →