Learn how to grow microgreens indoors year round in pots with this simple, step-by-step guide perfect for beginners! Fresh greens anytime, in any season.
Growing microgreens indoors is easy, fun, and perfect for all ages. You don’t need a garden, and you can enjoy fresh greens any time of year even in winter!
Also Read : How to Effectively Grow and Care for Blueberry Bushes in Pots
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are tiny plants harvested just after they sprout and grow their first set of leaves. They come from regular vegetables and herbs like broccoli, radish, or basil but are picked very early usually in just 1–3 weeks. They’re small in size but big in flavour and nutrients.
Why Grow Microgreens Indoors?
There are many good reasons to grow microgreens inside your home:
- They grow very quickly, often ready in just one to three weeks.
- They add a fresh, tasty touch to meals like salads, sandwiches, soups, and smoothies.
- You can grow them in small spaces, like a windowsill or a shelf.
- They are fun and easy to grow, even for beginners or kids.
- Indoor growing means no need to worry about outdoor weather, bugs, or soil quality.
What You Need to Get Started
Here’s a handy table that lists all the basic supplies and why you need them:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Shallow container or pot | Holds the soil and seeds. Should be about 2 inches deep with holes. |
| Tray or plate | Placed under the container to catch extra water. |
| Potting mix or seed soil | Light and clean soil for healthy root growth. |
| Microgreen seeds | Choose fast-growing seeds like radish, broccoli, or sunflower. |
| Spray bottle or watering can | Used to gently water the soil without disturbing the seeds. |
| Plastic wrap or clear lid | Covers the pot to keep warmth and moisture in during sprouting. |
| Sunny window or grow light | Provides light to help your microgreens grow tall and strong. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to grow microgreens from start to finish:
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fill your pot or container with about 1 inch of potting soil. Smooth it out gently. |
| 2 | Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the soil. Press them down lightly with your fingers. |
| 3 | Mist the seeds with water using a spray bottle. The soil should be damp, not soaked. |
| 4 | Cover the container with plastic wrap or a clear lid. Place in a dark, warm spot for 2–4 days. |
| 5 | Once seeds sprout, remove the cover and move the pot to a bright window or under a grow light. |
| 6 | Water gently once or twice a day to keep soil slightly moist not too wet. |
| 7 | Harvest when plants are 2–3 inches tall (usually 7–21 days). Cut just above the soil. |
Best Microgreens to Start With
Here’s a comparison of popular types of microgreens for beginners:
| Type | Flavor | Days to Harvest | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radish | Spicy, crunchy | 5–10 days | Fastest to grow, great for starters |
| Broccoli | Mild, earthy | 7–14 days | Full of vitamins |
| Sunflower | Nutty, crunchy | 8–12 days | Needs more space, very tasty |
| Pea Shoots | Sweet, tender | 10–14 days | Great in salads or stir fry |
| Kale | Mild, slightly bitter | 8–12 days | Nutrient-rich and easy to grow |
| Basil | Strong, herbal | 12–21 days | Slower growing, but flavorful |
Helpful Tips
- Start a new batch every 1–2 weeks so you always have fresh greens.
- If your plants are tall and thin, they need more light.
- Keep air moving around them with a small fan to prevent mold.
- Always use clean containers and tools.
- Write down what you plant and how it grows so you can learn what works best.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Plants grow tall and thin | Not enough light | Move to a sunnier spot or use a grow light |
| Mold on soil | Too much water, poor airflow | Water less often, use a fan nearby |
| Only a few seeds sprout | Dry soil or old seeds | Keep soil moist during sprouting, use fresh seeds |
| Plants fall over | Growing too fast with not enough light | Add more light and water evenly |
What are microgreens?
Microgreens are tiny plants that grow from vegetable or herb seeds. They’re harvested early, usually in 1 to 3 weeks, and packed with flavor and nutrients.
Are microgreens the same as sprouts?
Nope! Sprouts grow in water and are eaten with their roots. Microgreens grow in soil or other mediums and are snipped above the roots for eating.
Can I grow microgreens indoors without sunlight?
Yes, you can! If sunlight is low, you can use grow lights to give your microgreens the light they need to grow strong and healthy.
Can I reuse the soil after harvesting?
It’s better to use fresh soil each time. Old soil might have mold or less nutrition, which can affect your next batch of greens.
Why are my microgreens growing tall and thin?
They may not be getting enough light. Try placing them under a grow light or near a sunny window to help them grow thicker.
Also Read : How to Effectively Grow and Care for Blueberry Bushes in Pots
Final Thoughts
With just a few containers, some seeds, and a little care, you can grow your own microgreens right on your windowsill. It’s a fast, fun, and healthy hobby that fits into any lifestyle no matter the season.