These small vegetables are young shoots that are harvested typically 5 to 20 days after germination when they only measure a few centimeters high. Thus, the microgreens are harvested at an earlier stage compared to their mature counterparts. The 3 edible components of a microgreen: are the central stem, the cotyledon leaves, and the young true leaves. At this stage, most of the microgreens are formed of a central stem, two developed “cotyledon” leaves (leaves contained in the seed and which, when fully developed, help the young seedling to evolve thanks to photosynthesis), and sometimes a second pair of young “true” leaves. Most of the time the shape between cotyledon and young true leaves is quite different. For many herbs and vegetables, it’s possible to eat their equivalent as microgreens, like coriander, basil, mustard rocket, or radish, just to name a few. With an especially rich flavor, these small vegetables are a delight for our taste buds while bringing loads of nutritive elements along the way!

As we have all been taught when we were little, we should eat our greens. Most of the nutrients, needed for the well-being of our body are found in fruits and vegetables: such as vitamins, carotenoids, antioxidants, fiber, and minerals. Don’t be fooled by their small size! Microgreens are highly intense in flavor and in nutrients. In fact, it was discovered in a recent study published by the Journal of agriculture and food chemistry [1] that the concentration of nutrients inside microgreen leaves is highly superior to the concentration you can find in mature plant leaves. 25 different species of microgreens were analyzed in this research and it was proven that in some cases you can find from 4 up to 40 times more vitamins or carotenoids in the microgreen leaves!

Microgreens clearly have more nutrients compared to their mature counterparts! The researchers concluded that most of the microgreen species tested were excellent providers of vitamins and carotenoids, much more even than their mature counterparts. High variations exist between the species, so it’s almost as if each microgreen has its own specialty: in taste but also in nutrients! For example, red cabbage is extremely high in vitamin C and green daikon has an incredible number of antioxidants. In any case, just a few grams of microgreens can already be enough to get your daily amount of nutrients. Another one of their superpowers is their wealth in minerals, mainly calcium (for cell physiology, bone, and tooth growth) and potassium (crucial for neurons and muscles). [2] These concentrations are highly linked to the nutrient solution that is used for the growing microgreens. Having such an impact on the concentrations can be quite useful for people suffering from certain diseases such as impaired kidney function [3] and cardiovascular disease.

Microgreens are high in nutrients, including vitamins and antioxidants. They may also have health benefits, such as reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.

To grow microgreens, you will need a tray or container, soil or a growing medium, and seeds. Sow the seeds according to the package instructions, cover them with a thin layer of soil or growing medium, and water them well. Place the tray in a sunny spot or under grow lights and keep the soil moist.

There are many types of microgreens, including peas, radishes, beets, kale, mustard greens, and basil.

To harvest microgreens, simply snip off the tops of the plants with scissors when they are about 2-3 inches tall.

Microgreens can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for a few days.

Microgreens will generally last for about a week in the refrigerator.

Yes, microgreens can be grown indoors in a sunny spot or under grow lights.

Microgreens are high in nutrients, including vitamins and antioxidants. The specific nutritional content will depend on the type of microgreen.

Yes, microgreens can be grown year-round as long as they have sufficient light and a controlled temperature.

Microgreens can be grown in a small space, such as a windowsill or under grow lights.

A well-draining, soil-less mix is best for growing microgreens.

Yes, microgreens can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.

While microgreens can be grown in a sunny spot, they may benefit from additional light, such as grow lights, in order to grow properly.

Microgreens should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.

Microgreens generally take about 7-14 days to grow.

Microgreens can be grown from a variety of seeds, including vegetable, herb, and grain seeds.

Microgreens have a relatively short shelf life and should be eaten within a week of harvesting.