Types Of Micro Greens

If you’re looking for a simple way to boost your meals, look no further than the vibrant world of types of micro greens. These tiny, nutrient-packed seedlings are a fantastic addition to any kitchen garden or plate. They’re easy to grow and offer a surprising punch of flavor and nutrition.

This guide will walk you through the most popular varieties, how to grow them yourself, and simple ways to use them every day.

Micro greens are simply the young, edible seedlings of vegetables and herbs. They are harvested just after the first true leaves develop, usually within 7-21 days. While sprouts are eaten root and all, micro greens are cut above the soil line. This gives them a more robust texture and often a more concentrated flavor.

Here are some of the best and easiest types of micro greens to start with.

1. The Brassica Family (Cruciferous)

This family is known for its peppery or spicy kick and fast growth. They are incredibly reliable for beginners.

Broccoli: Mild, slightly earthy flavor. It’s one of the most popular choices.
Radish: Offers a sharp, spicy punch similar to a full-grown radish. It germinates very quickly.
Kale: A slightly bitter, hearty flavor. Red Russian kale is a beautiful variety.
Arugula: Distinctive peppery taste that’s perfect for salads and sandwiches.
Cabbage: Sweet and mild, great for adding volume without overpowering.

2. The Asteraceae Family (Lettuce & Chicory)

These greens tend to be more tender and have a milder, sometimes bitter, profile.

Lettuce: Varieties like romaine or butterhead are crisp and mild.
Endive: Has a distinctive, pleasant bitterness.
Radicchio: Beautiful red leaves with a stronger bitter note.

3. The Apiaceae Family (Umbellifers)

This group includes some of the most flavorful micro greens, often tasting just like their mature counterparts.

Cilantro: Full of that classic citrusy, fresh flavor. It can be slower to germinate.
Dill: Delicate feathery leaves with that familiar tangy taste.
Celery: Surprisingly strong celery flavor in a tiny leaf.
Carrot: Tastes just like carrot tops—fresh and herbaceous.

4. The Amaranthaceae Family (Amaranth & Beets)

Known for their stunning color and earthy flavors.

Beet: Vibrant red stems and green leaves with a sweet, earthy taste.
Chard: Rainbow chard varieties are especially gorgeous, with mild flavor.
Amaranth: Deep red color and a mild, slightly nutty taste.

5. The Allium Family (Onions)

These provide a gentle, fresh onion or garlic flavor without the intensity of the bulb.

Onion: A mild, sweet onion taste.
Garlic Chives: A subtle garlic flavor that’s wonderful in many dishes.

6. Pea and Sunflower Shoots

These are technically shoots or sprouts, but are often grouped with micro greens. They are crunchy and sweet.

Pea Shoots: Crisp texture and a sweet, fresh pea flavor. They are very popular.
Sunflower Shoots: Thick stems with a nutty, crunchy texture. You need to use black oil sunflower seeds specifically.

Why Grow Your Own Micro Greens?

Buying microgreens at the store can be expensive, and they perish quickly. Growing your own is cost-effective, ensuring you always have the freshest greens possible. You also have total control over the growing process, from seed selection to harvest.

It’s a quick and satisfying project. You can go from seed to harvest in under two weeks for many varieties. Plus, you can grow them year-round indoors, regardless of the weather outside.

How to Grow Micro Greens: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

You don’t need a green thumb or fancy equipment to get started. Here’s what you need to do.

What You’ll Need

Seeds: Buy seeds labeled for “microgreens” or “sprouting” to ensure they are untreated and safe.
Containers: Shallow trays with drainage holes are ideal. You can reuse clean takeout containers or seedling flats.
Growing Medium: A shallow layer of organic potting soil, coconut coir, or even specialized microgreen mats.
Light: A sunny south-facing window works. For best results, use a simple LED grow light for 12-16 hours a day.
Water: A clean spray bottle is essential for gentle watering.

The Planting Process

Prepare Your Tray: Fill your container with about 1-1.5 inches of moistened growing medium. Level it gently.
Sow Seeds: Scatter seeds evenly and densely across the surface. They should be close but not piled on top of each other. For larger seeds like peas or sunflowers, you can pre-soak them for 8-12 hours to speed up germination.
Press and Cover: Lightly press the seeds into the soil with your hand or a small board. For most seeds, cover them with a thin layer of soil or use a second tray to block light. This encourages germination.
Water and Wait: Mist the surface well. Keep the tray covered or in a dark place for 2-4 days until you see sprouts.

Care After Germination

Provide Light: Once sprouted, move the tray to your light source immediately.
Water Carefully: Water from the bottom if possible by pouring water into the outer tray. If top-watering, use the mister to avoid damaging the tender seedlings.
Air Flow: Good air circulation prevents mold. A small fan on low nearby can help.

Harvesting Your Greens

Your micro greens are ready when they have developed their first set of “true leaves” (the second set of leaves that appear). This is usually at 1-3 inches tall.

Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors.
Cut the stems just above the soil line.
Harvest only what you need, as they are best eaten fresh. Most trays will not regrow after cutting.

Give them a quick rinse in cool water and pat dry with a paper towel before using. Store any extras in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week, but they lose quality fast so try to use them quickly.

Adding Micro Greens to Your Meals

The beauty of micro greens is there versatility. You don’t need to cook them; their delicate nature is best enjoyed raw.

Salads: They are the perfect salad topper, adding flavor, color, and texture.
Sandwiches & Wraps: Layer them on for a fresh crunch instead of lettuce.
Garnish: Finish soups, pizzas, omelets, or avocado toast with a handful.
Smoothies: Add a small handful of mild varieties like broccoli or pea shoots to your morning smoothie for a nutrient boost.
Stir-fries & Pasta: Stir them in at the very end of cooking, just to wilt slightly.

Start with small amounts to see how you like the flavor. The stronger varieties, like radish or cilantro, can be used sparingly as a flavor accent.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with simple plants, things can sometimes go a little wrong. Here’s how to fix common issues.

Leggy, Pale Seedlings: This means not enough light. Move them closer to the window or get a grow light.
Mold or Fungus: Caused by too much moisture and poor air circulation. Water less, improve airflow with a fan, and ensure your seeds aren’t sown too thickly.
Slow Growth: Often due to low temperatures. Micro greens prefer a room temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Uneven Germination: Make sure your seeds are fresh and that you kept them evenly moist and covered during the germination phase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are microgreens healthier than regular greens?

Research shows they can be up to 40 times more nutrient-dense than their mature counterparts by weight. They are concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

What is the easiest microgreen to grow?

Radish and broccoli are among the easiest and fastest. They germinate reliably, grow quickly, and are very forgiving of minor mistakes.

Can I use regular garden seeds for microgreens?

You should only use seeds that are certified for sprouting or microgreens. Regular garden seeds are often treated with fungicides or other chemicals that are not safe to eat at the seedling stage.

How often can I harvest micro greens?

You harvest the entire tray at once. To have a continuous supply, simply start a new tray every 7-10 days. This way, you’ll always have a fresh batch ready to cut.

Do micro greens regrow after cutting?

Most types will not regrow because the energy reserve in the seed is used up. Some, like pea shoots, may produce a second, smaller harvest if cut carefully.

Starting your own microgreen garden is a rewarding step towards healthier eating. With just a little effort, you can enjoy a constant supply of fresh, flavorful greens right from your countertop. Experiment with different types of micro greens to find your favorites and enjoy the process of growing your own food, no matter how small it starts.