11 Things You Need To Know About Microgreen
Microgreens are also known as micro herbs or vegetable confetti have been making their way into nearby grocery stores, restaurants, and into the recipes of some of your favourite foods. They are bigger than sprouts but smaller than baby leaf vegetables. They have a strong aromatic flavour and contain higher nutrient levels than more mature vegetable greens.
Well, even after reading this description, you would be having lot more questions about what are microgreens, how good they are and where to buy them from.
Let’s get started….
What are the popular varieties of green plants which we can grow as microgreens?
Mustard, Kale, Endive, Arugula, Beet greens, Spinach, Tatsoi, Radish greens, Watercress, Mizuna, Peas, Cabbage, Basil, Lettuce (any variety), Rice, Oats, Wheat, Corn and Barley
When is the right time to harvest microgreens?
The best time to harvest microgreens is when they’ve developed the first set of true leaves, which normally happens within 10 days to two weeks after planting.
Will we get more harvest from a single seed set?
No. you won’t be able to get additional harvests from one planting of microgreen seed as we would be cutting off everything except the very bottom of the stem.
Can we grow a new set of microgreens on the same soil bed?
Yes. You can plant another set of microgreens by simply scattering fresh seed and covering it with soil. There is no need to remove the roots from the first harvest. This will serve as organic manure.
How tall do these microgreens become?
Microgreens attain approximately 1–3 inches (2.5–7.5 cm) tall over a 10-21 day time period
How do microgreens taste?
They taste neutral to spicy, slightly sour or even bitter, depending on the variety
What kind of nutrients can microgreens provide us with?
Microgreens are mostly rich in potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium and copper. They contain a higher quantity of vitamin, mineral and antioxidant levels, than the same amount of mature plants.
Can microgreens help in reducing disease risk?
Microgreens reduce a person’s risk of having cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, and some cancers.
Are microgreens safe?
Since we would be only consuming the leaves and fragile stem, they are generally considered safe to eat
Why are microgreens way more expensive than leafy vegetables?
Microgreens are expensive because for each harvest we need to prepare fresh soil or growing mats. Many a time microgreens are grown in presence of artificial lighting, fans, or climate control units to create the perfect environment.
Can we grow microgreens at home?
Microgreens are very easy to grow since they are harvested at the first true leaf stage. All that you need to do is give them some sunshine and little water. It is better to buy Microgreen seeds and not regular seeds. The soil used must be free of pesticides.
All the best to you with microgreens.
Do share photos of microgreens you grow at home with us. I would be glad to publish the same on my social media handles.
