Are you tired of waiting months to enjoy the fruits (or rather, greens) of your gardening labor? Look no further than microgreens!
These tiny but mighty plants are the ultimate solution for impatient gardeners with limited space.
Not only do they grow quickly, but they also pack a nice nutritional punch that will leave you wondering why it took you so long to discover them.
So, put away your gardening gloves and grab a tray – we’re about to explore the 10 best microgreens to grow indoors that will revolutionize your culinary adventures!
Why Grow Microgreens Indoors?
Do you ever wish you could have a fresh supply of nutrient-packed greens right at your fingertips?
Well, now you can with indoor microgreen gardening! Indoor microgreen cultivation allows you to grow these miniature, vibrant plants right in the comfort of your own home.
One major advantage of growing microgreens indoors is that it gives you complete control over the environment in which they thrive.
You can optimize factors such as temperature, light intensity, and humidity to provide optimal growing conditions. No longer will you be dependent on fluctuating outdoor weather or limited gardening seasons.
Another great thing is that growing microgreens indoors enables year-round cultivation.
Gone are the days of waiting for spring or summer to plant your greens. With indoor gardening, you can enjoy fresh microgreens every day, regardless of the season. Imagine how incredible it would be to garnish your dishes with colorful and flavorful microgreens all year long!
Indoor gardens also minimize the risk of pests and diseases that often accompany outdoor gardening.
By eliminating exposure to external elements, you’re providing a safe haven for your delicate plants to flourish without any unwanted visitors wreaking havoc on their development.
We can’t overlook the convenience factor that comes with indoor microgreen gardens. Have limited space?
Not a problem!
Even the smallest apartments or homes can accommodate mini-greenhouses or countertop setups designed specifically for indoor cultivation. The accessibility and ease make this endeavor feasible for anyone interested in having a garden.
The benefits don’t stop there – growing microgreens indoors allows for quick turnaround times compared to traditional gardening methods. In as little as one to three weeks after sowing seeds, depending on the variety, you’ll have a bountiful harvest ready to be enjoyed.
This rapid growth provides a sense of accomplishment too!
Best Microgreens to Grow Indoors
When it comes to growing microgreens indoors, you have a wide variety of choices available.
Here are a few to grow indoors that will take your culinary skills up a notch.
1. Radish Microgreens
With their peppery taste and vibrant red stems, radish microgreens are a popular choice for adding both flavor and visual appeal to dishes like salads or avocado toast.
Radish microgreens are ideal for indoor growing because they have a short growing cycle of just 7 days. This means you can enjoy fresh harvests in no time.
Despite their small size, radish microgreens are bursting with flavor and offer superb nutritional value, boasting an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
2. Sunflower Microgreens
These lovely greens are packed with nutrients and have a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
They can be added to sandwiches, wraps, or even sprinkled on top of soups for an extra crunch. You can try growing sunflower microgreens inside because they require minimal sunlight and can be grown in small spaces.
They are also known for their quick growth, with harvest-ready microgreens appearing in just 14 days.
Sunflower microgreens are a great source of vitamins A, B complex, D, and E, as well as minerals such as calcium and iron. Their vibrant green leaves and delicate stems add a pop of color to any dish.
3. Peashoot Microgreens
These tender greens have a sweet flavor that is reminiscent of fresh peas which is absolutely mild and tasty!
Pea shoot microgreens grow pretty fast too typically reaching harvest size in about 9-14 days. They are packed with nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folic acid.
Pea shoots also contain a good amount of fiber and protein, making them a great addition to salads or stir-fries. Their delicate tendrils and curly leaves add a touch of elegance to any dish.
4. Mustard Microgreens
Whether you prefer milder varieties such as Mizuna or spicier options such as Red Giant mustard greens, these mini superfoods will bring a zingy kick to your meals while providing numerous health benefits.
Mustard greens are known for their distinct peppery flavor and vibrant green leaves. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. Consuming mustard greens regularly can help boost immunity, improve digestion, and support healthy bones.
These microgreens grow quickly too, usually reaching maturity within 5-14 days. Their small size makes them easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes such as sandwiches, wraps, or even smoothies.
5. Watercress Microgreens
Watercress microgreens make the perfect indoor green for adding a burst of fresh flavor to any dish. Packed with nutrients like vitamins C and K, calcium, iron, and manganese, watercress microgreens offer a range of health benefits.
They are particularly known for their potential to improve cardiovascular health and support healthy digestion.
Adding watercress microgreens to your meals can also contribute to detoxification by promoting liver function and aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body. These vibrant green microgreens can be used as a topping for salads.
6. Wheatgrass Microgreens
Wheatgrass microgreens can also be grown inside and used as a nutritious addition to smoothies and juices. They are incredibly easy to grow indoors, requiring minimal space and care.
To get started, you’ll need a shallow tray or container with drainage holes, organic soil or a growing medium specifically designed for microgreens, watercress seeds, and access to indirect sunlight. Fill the tray with the growing medium and sprinkle the watercress seeds evenly over the surface.
Gently press down on the seeds so they make contact with the soil but aren’t completely buried. Mist the surface with water to ensure moisture, then place the tray in a location that receives indirect sunlight.
This grows in about 8 days.
7. Broccoli Microgreens
Broccoli microgreens, the young and tender counterparts of mature broccoli plants, have been gaining popularity in the world of healthy eating.
With their delicate green leaves and vibrant flavor, they make a nutritious addition to various dishes. These microgreens are a nutritional powerhouse, providing high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and sulforaphane, known for their potential health benefits.
Beyond their impressive nutritional profile, broccoli microgreens bring a fresh and slightly peppery taste to salads, sandwiches, and more.
They are also easy to cultivate at home, making them a convenient and sustainable choice for those looking to enhance the flavor and nutrition of their meals. Incorporating broccoli microgreens into your diet is a delicious way to promote health and well-being.
8. Arugula Microgreens
These are a fantastic addition to your diet as they are packed with nutrients and have a delicious peppery flavor.
To grow arugula microgreens, follow a similar process to that of broccoli microgreens. Start by filling a shallow tray with a well-draining potting mix. Spread the arugula seeds evenly over the soil surface, ensuring that they are not too crowded. Wait on your greens to grow fully which is about 2 inches.
After harvesting, rinse the arugula microgreens gently under running water to remove any soil or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towel before using.
Arugula microgreens can be used in a variety of dishes to add a burst of flavor and freshness. They are often used as a garnish for salads, sandwiches, soups, and other savory dishes. Their peppery taste pairs well with cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
9. Kale Microgreens
If you want another yummy green to try, kale microgreens are also a popular choice for homegrown microgreens.
You will enjoy their tender and slightly sweet flavor. To harvest kale microgreens, simply cut them just above the soil level using clean scissors or a sharp knife. Give them a gentle rinse under running water to remove any dirt or particles.
Once they are clean, pat them dry with a towel or paper towel before incorporating them into your favorite dishes. Kale microgreens can be added to salads, smoothies, stir-fries, and even used as a topping for pizzas.
Their vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any dish!
10. Chives Microgreens
Do you love the taste of chives? Chives microgreens are great for adding a burst of onion-like flavor to your dishes.
Chives microgreens are extremely versatile and can be used in various culinary creations. Sprinkle them over soups, omelettes, baked potatoes, or even mix them into cream cheese for a flavorful spread.
Grow these in about 10-14 days.
11. Basil Microgreens
Basil microgreens are so tasty it’s not even funny! They are perfect for adding depth and freshness to pasta sauces, pesto, salads, and even cocktails. You can also use basil microgreens to garnish soups, sandwiches, and pizzas. Their vibrant green color and delicate texture make them a visually appealing addition to any dish.
One of the best things about basil microgreens is their versatility. You can experiment with different flavor combinations by pairing them with other herbs like cilantro or mint. They also pair well with fruits like strawberries or watermelon, adding a hint of herbaceousness to sweet dishes.
Benefits of growing microgreens indoors include the ability to have a fresh supply year-round, as well as the convenience of having them readily available in your own kitchen.
They have been found to have antibacterial properties and may help support a healthy immune system. Growing microgreens indoors is relatively easy and requires minimal space.
Try These Other Microgreens!
- Alfalfa
- Pak Choi
- Mungbean
- Oregano
- Lentil
- Onion
- Fava Bean
- Rosemary
- Leek
- Collard
- Dandelion
- Garlic Chive
- Lemon Basil
- Lavender
- Nasturtium
- Chickpea
Best Microgreens to Grow Indoors
Growing microgreens indoors is a great way to add some greenery and freshness to your home. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there are plenty of microgreen options that are easy to grow and maintain.
From spicy radishes to vibrant sunflowers, these tiny greens pack a punch of flavor and nutrition. So why not ditch the store-bought salad mix and become your own microgreen master?
Get started today and watch your indoor garden flourish with these delicious and adorable mini greens. Happy growing!
