Every week, a new member of the Microgreens World community is curious and asks me the question, “What microgreens to grow?”
If you’re reading this, I’m assuming you’re here for the answer or at least an answer. I hate giving a wishy-washy answer like, “Well, it depends.” But it does depend on what you intend to do with them.
To maximize nutrient intake and flavor diversity while meeting market demands, prioritize cultivating a selection of microgreens such as radish, arugula, broccoli, sunflower, kale, pea, beet, spinach, mustard, cabbage, cauliflower, amaranth, celery, basil, and cress. These varieties offer quick harvest times of 4 to 14 days, rich in essential vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. Their unique tastes and nutrient profiles cater to culinary enhancement, making them essential choices for hydroponic and vertical farming techniques, especially in the food service industry.
According to the Pew Research Center’s survey (Funk and Kennedy, 2016), the majority of adults are buying organic food because they think it’s good for their health, while the second most common reason is perceived environmental benefits.
Microgreens, harvested just after the first leaves of vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other plants have developed, are tasty and packed with nutrients. Among the many types, broccoli microgreens stand out for their high nutritional value, while basil microgreens impress with their rich aroma. Each variety has its own unique taste, color, and health benefits.
But growing microgreens isn’t just about eating them and enjoying their flavor and nutrition. They are grown to make cosmetics, treat diseases, and, of course, make money. It’s also a chance to learn and practice the art of cultivation.
So, are you ready to explore the best microgreens to grow and how to do it successfully? Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways: Microgreens to Grow
- Microgreens such as Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Arugula, and Basil are often chosen for cultivation because of their widespread popularity. Moreover, microgreens like Amaranth, Celery, Beets, Sunflower, Peas, Radish, and Cress are known for their high vitamin content, making them suitable for use in beauty products.
- With a growing interest in healthy living, people are drawn to Lettuce microgreens due to their high protein and low carb content. They’re a good pick for those keen on maintaining a balanced diet.
- Growing microgreens at home is also a practical option, thanks to their small space requirements and fast growth. Plus, obtaining seeds and other gardening supplies has become easy with online shopping.
Ever wanted to know which microgreens are loved most around the world? The answer includes broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, arugula, amaranth, celery, beets, sunflower, peas, basil, radish, and cress. These tiny greens are grown with modern methods like hydroponics and vertical farming. They are famous for their standout tastes and uses in cooking.
Chefs from all corners of the globe cherish these small greens. They use them to boost the taste and look of their dishes. But it’s not just about the taste. These greens are packed with vitamins A and B, which makes them a great fit in the cosmetics industry, too. What’s more, they need little space and resources to grow, making them a sustainable choice for home gardeners, side hustlers, and indoor farming.
The trend towards diets focused on wellness has increased the love for these nutrient-rich greens. As part of a diet high in protein and low in carbs, they’re a top pick for people who are mindful about their health. And, because they can be grown indoors all year round, microgreens provide a local food option that matches the current trends. So, whether you love
Microgreens are loaded with much-needed vitamins and minerals that help your body run smoothly (Lone et al., 2024). Think of them like a tiny superhero team fighting off health threats for you.
One of their superpowers is their antioxidants. These are like shields, protecting your body from harmful substances that can lead to severe illnesses like heart disease and cancer. So, when you munch on microgreens, you’re giving your body armor against disease.
But that’s not all. Microgreens are also like your body’s personal cheer squad, boosting your immune system. They’re full of vitamins C and E, which help your immune system stay strong and fend off illnesses.
And let’s not forget about energy levels. Just like a good breakfast helps you start your day right, microgreens can help keep your energy up.
Here’s a simple table to remember these terrific benefits:
| Super Powers of Microgreens | How They Help You |
| Vitamin and Mineral Rich | Keeps your body running smoothly |
| Full of Antioxidants | Protects your body from disease |
| Boosts Immune System | Helps fend off illnesses |
| Improves Energy Levels | Keeps you active and energized |
Growing microgreens at home isn’t only doable but also rewarding. No matter the weather or where you live, you can grow microgreens right in your home using effective gardening techniques.
One great way to grow microgreens indoors is container gardening (Neves, 2019). This involves using shallow trays or pots. There are many microgreen varieties to choose from, each with its own unique nutrient content. But one thing they all have in common is their rich supply of vitamins and minerals.
Your microgreens need light to grow, so place your pots near a window with plenty of sunlight or under grow lights. Keep in mind to keep them moist but not overly watered. A simple spray bottle can help with this. You’ll be excited to see little sprouts pop up in just a few days for most varieties.
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When it’s time to harvest, cut the greens just above the soil when they’ve grown their first real leaves. This usually happens one to three weeks after planting.
Growing microgreens at home is a convenient and beneficial way to boost your health. It’s an easy process that anyone can do, and the rewards are bountiful. So why not give it a try?
In the kitchen, microgreens are more than a decorative item. These tiny plants bring a lot to the plate, from their distinct tastes and textures to their visual appeal. They can boost your cooking skills by offering new flavor mixes to try. Each type of microgreen has its own unique taste, which means you can have fun trying out new dishes.
For example, chefs often suggest using arugula microgreens. They give a dish a nice peppery kick. Beet greens can add a sweet, earthy flavor, while basil microgreens can give a hint of anise. By using these microgreens, you can turn an ordinary meal into something special.
Take radish microgreens. They can give your salad a spicy crunch. Sunflower shoots have a somewhat nutty taste. They’re great in stir-fries, and they make a fresh topping for pizza. Some chefs even use microgreens in soups, sandwiches, and desserts for a surprising twist.
Microgreens aren’t only a tasty addition to your meals. They also have a part to play in cosmetics. These tiny plants are rich in Vitamins A and B, which are great for our skin and hair (Neves, 2023). This is why we’re seeing them in many skincare and hair products.
Chinese basil microgreens are used extensively in the cosmetic industry for skin creams, soaps, etc. (Ahmed et al., 2019).
The cosmetics industry is always looking for better, more natural ingredients. Microgreens are a fantastic option because they’re full of nutrients and easy to grow. This makes them a practical and eco-friendly choice. More and more, we’re seeing these little greens popping up in products we use every day.
Microgreens aren’t just for eating or applying on our skin and hair. They can help to refresh our skin and boost hair growth. You’ll find them in a range of items, from face masks to shampoos. But the benefits don’t stop at what we can put on our bodies. Eating microgreens can also improve your skin and hair.
The cosmetics industry is changing. With the addition of microgreens, it’s moving towards a healthier, more sustainable future. So, keep an eye out for beauty products that contain these nutrient-packed plants.
Wrap-Up: What Microgreens To Grow
You’ve started your journey in the fascinating world of microgreens.
You’ve learned about popular types, their health benefits, and how they can be used in your garden, your kitchen, and even in beauty products.
Whether you’re growing microgreens on your kitchen windowsill or thinking about starting a business, you’re ready for the next step.
These tiny plants can make your meals tastier and healthier.
Related Questions
How Much Space Is Needed to Start a Small Microgreen Farm at Home?
To begin a small microgreen farm at home, you only need a compact area that gets plenty of light. By using clever strategies to make the most of your space, you can overcome any challenges that indoor farming may present. It’s essential to think about how you’ll water your microgreens and aim for a low-cost setup. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of growing microgreens without breaking the bank.
Are There Specific Microgreens That Are Better Suited for Certain Types of Cuisine?
Certain microgreens are particularly useful in enhancing the flavors of specific cuisines. For instance, radish microgreens can add a unique flavor kick to Asian recipes. On the other hand, the taste of Italian dishes can be enriched by incorporating basil microgreens. When choosing the right microgreen for a dish, it’s essential to think about the flavor it brings and the best time to add it to the dish. In addition, these small plants may be used to add a little spice to food or even to add flavour to beverages. It’s all about understanding the taste profile of the microgreen and using it correctly to complement the dish.
How Are Microgreens Processed Into Ingredients for Cosmetic Products?
Different manufacturers use different methods to draw oils from the microgreens. These oils find their way into the world of cosmetics, playing a critical role in skin care products. By using natural methods to keep these oils fresh, cosmetics that are kind to the environment are becoming more popular. This is leading to a change in the beauty industry towards more eco-friendly products.
References
Pew Research Center. “The New Food Fights: U.S. Public Divides over Food Science.” Pew Research Center Science & Society, Pew Research Center Science & Society, Dec. 2016, www.pewresearch.org/science/2016/12/01/the-new-food-fights/.
Lone, Jafar K., et al. “Microgreens on the Rise: Expanding Our Horizons from Farm to Fork.” Heliyon, Elsevier BV, Feb. 2024, pp. e25870–70, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25870.
Neves, Andrew. “Growing Microgreens at Home in Containers | Microgreens World.” https://microgreensworld.com/growing-microgreens-at-home-in-containers/. Accessed 4 Mar. 2024.
Neves, Andrew. “Microgreens for Hair Health – a Natural Boost for Luscious Locks.” https://microgreensworld.com/microgreens-hair-health/.
Paraschivu, Mirela, et al. MICROGREENS -CURRENT STATUS, GLOBAL MARKET TRENDS and FORWARD STATEMENTS.
Ahmed, H.M. Ethnomedicinal, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Investigations of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. Molecules 2019, 24, 102. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30597896
Yu, H.; Qiu, J.F.; Ma, L.J.; Hu, Y.J.; Li, P.; Wan, J.B. Phytochemical and Phytopharmacological Review of Perilla frutescens L. (Labiatae), a Traditional Edible-Medicinal Herb in China. Food Chem. Toxicol. 2017, 108, 375–391. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2016.11.023
Ahmed, H.M.; Tavaszi-Sarosi, S. Identification and Quantification of Essential Oil Content and Composition, Total Polyphenols and Antioxidant Capacity of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. Food Chem. 2019, 275, 730–738. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30724256
Dimita, Rosanna, et al. “Volatile Compounds and Total Phenolic Content of Perilla Frutescens at Microgreens and Mature Stages.” Horticulturae, vol. 8, no. 1, Jan. 2022, p. 71, https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8010071. Accessed 4 Mar. 2024.
