Last Updated on January 23, 2023

11 Reasons to Grow Microgreens At Home

Do you love to start your own garden, but it is time-consuming, or do you not have enough space for it? All you need to do is grow microgreens! There are so many advantages of growing microgreens, but here are 11 reasons to grow microgreens at home. 

Growing Microgreens is Easy and Fast

The growth cycle of microgreens is relatively short, which means they can be harvested and planted multiple times in a year since they are relatively easy and fast to grow compared to fully matured plants. They are usually harvested 7-14 days after planting. In order to cultivate microgreens, you do not need professional skills or special equipment. You can grow them both indoors and outdoors because they have a short growth cycle.

Microgreens are Nutrient-Rich

According to a study published in the Journal of Food&Function, in 2018,  microgreens are rich in nutrients and contain high-level antioxidants that can protect against various diseases. Microgreens contain high amounts of vitamins, and they are four to forty times more nutritional than their fully matured plants.

Microgreens are referred to as superfoods because they contain vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, β-carotene, Vitamin K, etc. Microgreens also contain minerals like magnesium, iron, and potassium that are essential for body growth. For example, beets are rich in vitamin A, Luthien, and β-carotene. Also, red cabbage has anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties because they contain a high amount of anthocyanins.

The table below is a microgreen nutrition chart that shows the average nutrient concentrations of some microgreens in mg/100g.

Nutrition Chart	Magnesium (mg/100g)	Potassium (mg/100g)	Iron (mg/100g)	β-carotene (mg/100g)	Lutein / Zeaxanthin (mg/100g)	Violaxanthin (mg/100g)
Arugula	41	343	0.71	7.5	5.4	0.2
China Road Radish	48	270	0.62	5.4	4.9	1.9
Daikon Radish	60	176	0.57	6.1	4.5	1.7
Mizuna	29	354	0.57	7.6	5.2	2.4
Red Cabbage	39	240	0.62	11.5	8.6	2.9

Microgreens can be Grown in Small Spaces

You do not need a big garden to start growing microgreens. Microgreens can be grown in small spaces like kitchens or windowsills. Another exciting reason to grow microgreens is that they can be cultivated using a small container or in a shallow tray under a grow light. 

Flavorful

One of the reasons to grow microgreens is that they come in different flavor profiles, like spicy or nutty flavors. Since microgreens are harvested early, unlike matured plants, they contain intense and concentrated flavors that can be used to garnish dishes.

Some of the flavorful microgreens include mustard, pea shoots, beets, and radishes. For example, mustard microgreens are used to add accents to salads.

Long Shelf Life

One of the benefits of growing microgreens is their long shelf life. Microgreens are stored in fridges to keep them fresh after harvesting. To maximize their shelf life, put your microgreens in airtight containers and store them at a very cool temperature.

Microgreens are Expensive at the Store

The high cost of getting microgreens at stores is another reason to start growing microgreens at home. Microgreens are expensive at stores for different reasons. One reason is the cost of production, as it requires growing microgreens with soil, microgreen seeds, and new grow containers for every harvest. Also, some microgreens require the use of grow light for proper germination. These factors are the reason why microgreens tend to be more expensive than vegetables at stores.

Microgreens can be Grown at Any Time of the Year

At any time of the year; you can grow microgreens at home as long as there is enough light. You can cultivate microgreens with consistent lightening and temperature from your windowsill. The fast growth cycle of microgreens makes it easy to cultivate them for a couple of days under controlled conditions and lightning.  

Less Sunlight

Unlike mature plants, microgreens need less sunlight for germination. Microgreens require less energy from sunlight to produce their leaves and stem. Growing microgreens with grow light like fluorescent light, or LED light is possible. 

Relaxing and Enjoyable Hobby

Growing microgreens for business or pleasure can be a relaxing and enjoyable hobby to cultivate. One of the reasons for growing microgreens for many plantspersons is that it can be therapeutic.  

Growing microgreens is an enjoyable hobby because it is relatively easy to cultivate, and the process does not require so much effort and equipment. Also, the fast growth cycle gives a sense of purpose and accomplishment. 

Ideal Solution for Children Who Do Not Eat Vegetables

Many children do not eat vegetables because of their taste or how it looks. Microgreens are visually appealing, and they come in different colors and shapes that can be appealing to children. 

Since microgreens are easy to grow, you can allow your children to cultivate them to give them a sense of ownership. Children would love to eat microgreens grown by them. It is also a great way for them to learn about the nutritional benefits of microgreens.  

Aesthetically Pleasing

Many chefs use microgreens to enhance the elegance and sophistication of dishes. They come in different colors and shapes, which makes them aesthetically pleasing. They can also be used to enhance the visual appeal of dishes by adding texture and color.  

Final Thoughts

There are so many reasons to grow microgreens at home that will be beneficial to you now and in the long run. Microgreens are easy and fast to grow, and they do not require a large space for you to cultivate them. Growing microgreens at home is a good way to start gardening and cultivate an enjoyable hobby. 

Additionally, microgreens are of high nutritional value, and they contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to fight diseases. The benefit of growing microgreens at home is that it can be a good substitute for children who do not like vegetables. They can also learn about the nutritional benefits of microgreens.  

In addition, you can decide to take advantage of the expensive price of microgreens at stores by selling your own microgreens. Join UrbanicFarm for free and sell your microgreens to people that need them. UrbanicFarm is an online marketplace for buyers and sellers of freshly produced foods like microgreens to connect.

UrbanicFarm is the place to be if you are looking to get freshly produced microgreens near you. UrbanicFarm makes growing microgreens for beginners an easy journey by supporting growers with microgreen seeds, pesticides, and a plant tracking system to remind growers to cater to their plants.