Garden Toolbox

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Microgreens are a younger version of mature vegetables and herbs that are defined by growth of two cotyledon leaves within the first 7-21 days of planting seeds.

Many of the vegetables and herbs you are already familiar with start as a seed, grow into sprouts and then on to microgreens.  Broccoli, kale, brussels sprouts, and cabbage are some examples we provide, but microgreens also grow from many other seeds like basil, mint, mustard, and beets!

Yes! A recent study in 2012 studied the nutrient profile of microgreens and found that they can contain up a lot more nutrients than the full-grown plant, up to 40x more!  Specifically, the cotyledon leaves contained higher nutrient levels than mature leaves.  The USDA recommends that adults eat 2-3 cups of vegetables per day for a healthy, balanced diet. These nutrient-dense microgreens can be an easy way to sneak in some more veggies. 

Usually after 2-4 days.  The reason microgreens start out in the darkness, known as the blackout period, is to give the seeds an optimal, moist environment for germination and growth.  During this time, you spritz the seeds with water and cover the top so the seeds can focus on rooting in the soil.  This helps them grow stronger and more vibrant.  After a few days, typically 2-4, the plants are ready to begin photosynthesis...let in the light! A fun test is to loosely leave the cover on and watch your microgreens push through as they seek sunlight.

The roots of young plants have white tiny thread-like hairs that are seeking water and nutrients to provide to the growing plant.  However, many may mistake them for mold.  You will typically see them in the early days of growing before they make their way into the growing medium (coconut coir).  Mold can appear if there is not enough ventilation or if the environment is too wet.  It may start to grow on the stem or on top of the growing medium.  A good test is to lightly spray or water your microgreens.  If the tiny white hairs start to disappear, that's a good sign since those are the roots!

First, you cut them at the stem just above the soil line.  Next, give them a quick rinse in water and then add them to your favorite meal or eat them on their own!  The best time to harvest them is at the moment you plan to eat them when they are at their freshest, packed with their flavor and nutrients.

After you've harvested your microgreens, they can last up to a week in the refrigerator.  It's important to rinse them after harvesting and let them completely dry before you store them.  This will avoid any moisture that could lead to mold developing while being stored.  Remember, like most plants, microgreens begin to lose their nutrients and flavor after harvesting so try to eat them when they are fresh!  Alternatively, you can dehydrate your microgreens and turn them into a powder than can be used as a tea, in soups, or as a seasoning!

In most cases, the answer is no.  Since microgreens are harvested at the stem, the leaves are no longer a part of the root system.  The leaves are what allow photosynthesis to occur for continued growth.  Therefore, the microgreens would not grow again once you harvest the stem and leaves.  If you left a healthy leaf after harvest, then the microgreen could potentially grow back, but the nutrients, flavor, and quality would likely change.

Microgreens can be planted at any time of the year, regardless of seasons!  This is one of the reasons why they are the perfect introduction to growing your own food.  The experience of growing with soil and sunlight helps replicate the natural growing process that can be extended to other foods.  However, microgreens are flexible enough to grow in other mediums (coconut coir, hydroponic) and even just a desk light.  Regardless of seasons, microgreens can be planted every week!

As life circumstances have evolved, I am no longer able to produce & sell microgreen garden kits.  However, I have chosen to leave my Etsy Storefront up so you can see the experience others have had with their gardens.  I also occasionally update this website with new information for curious learners.  I hope one day to revive the gardening experience, but for now the seeds lay dormant.  Feel free to reach out if you ever want to connect or ask questions.