picking the correct microgreen seeds is critical to make certain a capable and healthy harvest Microgreens are edible young plants harvested immediately after the cotyledons (the first two leaves) have unfolded. They are rich in flavor, nutrients and color, and can be grown indoors or outside in diverse conditions. Seeds that are ideal for microgreens are usually fast growing, easily manageable and have a nice flavor and nutritious result.
Some of the popular seed selections and considerations when choosing seeds for microgreens cultivation.
Why It’s a Good Choice: Radish microgreens are among the quickest-growing varieties, often ready to harvest in as little as 7–10 days. They have a spicy, peppery taste similar to older radishes and add a great touch to salads, sandwiches and garnishes.
Growing tips: Radish seeds are forgiving and easy to grow, being an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. They are happiest in well-drained soil or a hydroponic setup.
Why Choose It: These microgreens are some of the most nutritious, and have a mild, nutty flavor. They are rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals and an excellent selection for healthy eating.
Growing Tips: Sunflower microgreens need a bit of extra depth to the soil compared to other microgreens due to the plant’s thick, sturdy stems. Soaking them for 6–12 hours before planting will help them germinate more quickly.
Why We Love It: Pea shoots have a sweet, fresh flavor with a tender, succulent texture. They also provide plenty of vitamins A, C and K, are fast-growing and easy to harvest.
Growing Tips: A good start to germination is soaking pea seeds before planting (for about 8–12 hours). These microgreens are ideal for salads, sandwiches and soups.
Why You’d Want It: Broccoli microgreens have a mild, slightly peppery flavor and are filled with nutrients, particularly the antioxidant sulforaphane. One of the highest concentrations of vitamins and minerals in microgreens.
Sowing advice: Broccoli seedsyle germinate in no time and can be grown with ease. They do better in cooler temperatures, which makes them a good choice to be grown indoors all year long.
Why You Should Choose It: Cilantro microgreens pack a unique, fresh flavor that infuses dishes with citrusy zest. They’re also packed with antioxidants and other good nutrients.
Grow Notes: Cilantro microgreens can be a bit more difficult to grow, as they’re a cooler weather crops, and may bolt (flower and go to seed) in high heat. These can be grown in moderate temp and are harvestable in 2-3 weeks.
Why You Should Consider: If you love basil plants, basil microgreens are simply the flavors of them in delicate form. They are full of oils that are essential and contain antioxidants.
How to Grow: Basil microgreens grow best in warm conditions and indirect sunlight. Make sure they are planted in well-drained soil, and you want to keep the soil moist but not drenched.
Why to Grow — Mustard microgreens range in flavor from mild to spicy depending on the variety. They grow fast, are high in vitamins A, C and K, and have a pungent flavor that brightens dishes.
How to Grow: Mustard seeds are extremely speedy microgreens with a harvest time of 7–14 days. They like cooler temperatures and must be grown in moist, well-draining soil.
Why You Should: Arugula microgreens are peppery and somewhat tangy, making them excellent for adding spice to salads, sandwiches and even pizzas.
Growing Tips: Arugula is quick and easy to grow, often being ready to harvest in a mere 7–14 days. It thrives in moderate temperatures and moist soil.
Flavor Profile
Microgreens can vary from sweet and mild to spicy and peppery. Think about the flavor profile you like or the type of dishes you want to match. Radish, mustard and arugula contribute a sharper flavor while sunflower and pea shoots have more delicate tastes.
Growing Time
Microgreens vary in the time it takes to grow. If you want to harvest quickly, opt for fast-growing varieties such as radish or mustard. But if you are looking to grow something that takes a little longer but adds its own twist to your cooking then maybe basil or cilantro is for you.
Climate and Temperature
Certain microgreens are more temperature-sensitive than others. Cilantro and basil grow best in warmer temperatures versus say broccoli and pea shoots that work best in cooler climates. Each microgreen has its own temperature requirements, learning those will help you in selecting the seeds that match your growing conditions.
Nutritional Value
If you’re cultivating microgreens for their health benefits, choose varieties that are rich in nutrients. Broccoli, radish, and its sunflower microgreens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You can dunk several sorts to maximise the health-boosting properties.
Soil and Growing Medium
Microgreens generally grow well in soil, but hydroponic options exist as well. Some microgreens, like sunflower, need a somewhat deeper growing medium to support their vigorous roots, while others, like radish and mustard, can be sown in shallow trays.
Space and Light
Microgreens can also be grown in confined spaces such as windowsills, kitchen counters, or with the help of grow lights. If you’re growing indoors, be sure to choose a variety that does well in a small space and doesn’t need a lot of light. If space allows, larger varieties can be grown in beds or containers.
Seed Quality
Seeds for microgreens should be high quality, non-GMO, and untreated. Make sure you choose seeds labeled for microgreens to eat healthy and safe. Do not use seeds meant for the growth of mature plants, as they might be treated with chemicals or pesticides.
Even garden center chains may have a selection of microgreen seeds to choose from. Choose reputable suppliers who specialize in quality, non-GMO seeds. For instance, Tahi offers a wide range of organic and high-end seed varieties, ideal for growing greens that are indoors, healthy, and tasty.
The seeds you buy should be specifically for microgreens to ensure the best results.
3 Steps to Choose Microgreens Seeds for Perfect Growing Choosing varieties you want to grow depends on many things including taste, time till harvest, climate, and nutrition. Whether you’re a novice or a pro gardener, there are a number of products you can buy to grow your own nutrient-dense, fresh microgreens.
If you want to see a lot of other seeds, Tahi’s Collection to see more or to his Instagram at Tahi’s Instagram. Happy growing!