Who wouldn’t want to grow plants that have major benefits?
Growing microgreens for example can be relaxing and educational all in one.
Because of their recent rise to fame, microgreens have become a popular and trendy addition to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.
That’s because they come packed with so much flavor and nutrition, making them a favorite among health enthusiasts and foodies alike.
So, how much do microgreens cost and are they worth the price tag?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the cost of microgreens and whether they are a worthwhile investment to grow in your garden.
What are Microgreens?
If you’re new to the game, microgreens are young plants harvested just a few weeks after germination.
They are actually smaller than baby greens and bigger than sprouts, with a variety of leaf shapes and colors.
Some of the most common microgreens include arugula, kale, broccoli, and radish, but there are many other types as well.
Usually, they are sold as small clumps of seedlings with the roots still attached, making them easy to use in cooking.
What is the Cost of Microgreens?
The cost of microgreens can vary depending on the type of microgreen, where you’re purchasing them from, and the quantity you’re buying.
Generally, microgreens can be more expensive than mature greens due to the extra care and attention required to grow them, as well as their higher nutritional content.
On average though, a small package of microgreens (around 1-2 ounces) can cost anywhere from $2 to $5 at a grocery store.
However, prices can be higher at specialty stores or farmers’ markets. If you’re buying in larger quantities or wholesale, prices may be lower.
If you’re interested in growing your own microgreens, the cost can be much lower. In fact, it’s recommended that you grow microgreens rather than purchase the, because it can save you a LOT of money!
You can purchase microgreen seeds in bulk and grow them at home using simple supplies such as a growing tray, potting soil, and grow lights.
This can be a cost-effective way to enjoy fresh microgreens year-round.
Why are Microgreens so Expensive?
Microgreens are considered more expensive than other plants and there’s a reason for that.
Unlike traditional crops, microgreens require a lot of attention and care. You will need to grow them in a sterile environment, with the right amount of moisture and light.
Also, they need to be harvested by hand, which is a time-consuming process.
The cultivation process requires the use of fresh soil or new growing mats, as well as sterilized trays to ensure optimal growth conditions for these young plants.
Moreover, growers must take into account several environmental factors, such as artificial lighting, fans, and climate control units, to provide the ideal microclimate for microgreens.
Another factor that affects the cost of microgreens is the variety of seeds used. Some seeds are more expensive than others, and some varieties take longer to grow than others.
Despite their lower biomass yield per square foot compared to traditional crops, microgreens are highly nutritious and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for consumers seeking premium quality produce.
For example, pea shoots are one of the most popular types of microgreens, but they can take up to three weeks to grow, which increases their cost.
All of these factors contribute to the high cost of microgreens.
Are Microgreens Profitable?
Microgreens can be profitable if grown and sold correctly. As with any business, profitability depends on various factors such as production costs, market demand, pricing strategy, and competition.
The production cost of microgreens is relatively high compared to other crops, as they require the initial investment in equipment and supplies, such as growing trays, potting soil, seeds, and grow lights, which can add up.
The demand for microgreens has been increasing in recent years due to their high nutritional content and unique flavors, and they can command premium prices at farmers’ markets, restaurants, and specialty stores.
However, competition can also be high in some areas, and it’s essential to research the market demand and competition before starting a microgreen business.
However, microgreens can be a profitable niche crop for small-scale growers, but it’s important to carefully plan and research the market to ensure a successful and profitable business.
Are Microgreens Worth the Cost?
This is definitely going to depend on your personal preferences and budget.
If you are someone who values fresh, nutrient-dense food and is willing to pay a premium for it, then microgreens are definitely worth the cost.
But, if you are on a tight budget or don’t place a high value on specialty foods, then microgreens may not be worth it.
If you’d still like to grow plants and invest in your garden, there are plenty of other healthy greens available at a lower price point, such as spinach, kale, and arugula.
While they may not have the same variety of flavors as microgreens, they are still packed with nutrition and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Microgreens can be worth the cost for some people, depending on their personal preferences and priorities. Here are a few factors to consider:
Nutritional Value
A lot of people are trying to eat healthier and microgreens are packed with tonnes of nutrients. Studies have shown that they contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals than their mature counterparts.
So if you’re looking to boost your nutrient intake, microgreens can be a great addition to your diet for the following reasons:
Flavor
Who doesn’t enjoy adding bold flavor to their recipes?
These yummy greens have a concentrated flavor that can add a lot of depth to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.
They can be a great way to start experimenting with different flavors in your cooking, as they are a fun and tasty ingredient to work with.
Cost
Microgreens can be more expensive than other types of produce, due to the amount of labor and resources required to grow them.
However, the cost can vary depending on where you live and where you purchase them. If you’re on a tight budget, you may need to weigh the benefits of microgreens against the cost.
Availability
One downfall is that microgreens may not be available in all grocery stores or farmers’ markets, depending on where you live.
If you have easy access to them, it may be more convenient to incorporate them into your diet.
Ultimately, whether microgreens are worth the cost depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value nutrition and flavor and have the budget to accommodate the cost, then microgreens may be ideal for you.
How Can you Reduce the Cost of Microgreens?
If you’re interested in trying microgreens but don’t want to pay a premium price, there are a few ways you can reduce the cost:
Grow Your Own
It goes without saying that one of the most cost-effective ways to enjoy microgreens is to grow them yourself.
You can purchase microgreen seeds online or at your local nursery, and grow them in a small tray or container. This way, you can ensure that they are grown in a clean, organic environment, and you can harvest them as needed.
Buy In Bulk
If you can’t grow your own microgreens, buying in bulk can be a good way to reduce the cost.
Many farmers’ markets and health food stores offer bulk discounts on microgreens, especially if you buy in large quantities. This can be a good option if you plan to use microgreens regularly.
Choose Less Expensive Varieties
Some microgreens, such as pea shoots and sunflower greens, are more expensive than others. Choosing less expensive varieties, such as radish or beet microgreens, can help you save money without sacrificing nutrition or flavor.
Is it Hard to Sell Microgreens?
The difficulty of selling microgreens can vary depending on several factors such as location, competition, target market, and marketing strategy.
Because microgreens are becoming more and more popular, there is greater demand for them among health-conscious consumers, specialty restaurants, and local markets.
However, competition in the microgreens market can be high, especially in urban areas where there are already established suppliers. To stand out, it’s important to offer unique varieties and focus on high-quality production practices.
Another factor to consider is the target market. Microgreens tend to be more expensive than mature greens, so it’s important to target customers who are willing to pay a premium for fresh, high-quality produce.
Your marketing strategy can also play a role in the success of selling microgreens. It’s a great idea to make use of social media, local farmers’ markets, and direct-to-consumer sales to reach potential customers.
Overall, while there may be some challenges in selling microgreens, with the right approach and attention to quality, it can be a profitable and rewarding business venture.
Microgreens Cost: Are They Worth It?
While microgreens are tasty and nutritious, they can be expensive. While the cost may be a barrier for some, it’s important to remember that microgreens growing microgreens at home is manageable.
All you need are a few tools like a tray, some potting soil, and seeds to get started. You can grow microgreens indoors on a windowsill or under artificial lights.
One of the biggest advantages of growing microgreens at home is that they are extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. You have complete control over the growing process as you can choose the right seeds, and soil, and utilize water efficiently in the process to ensure that your microgreens are grown in a safe and sustainable manner.
