The Ultimate Guide to Growing Microgreens and Sprouts at Home
In recent years, microgreens and sprouts have gained popularity among home gardeners, health enthusiasts, and chefs alike—and for good reason. These tiny greens are nutrient-dense, quick to grow, and perfect for small spaces, making them ideal for urban dwellers and beginners. Whether you’re looking to boost your meals with a burst of flavor or start a low-maintenance indoor garden, microgreens and sprouts are the perfect gateway into homegrown health.
In this guide from plantingwell.com, we’ll break down everything you need to know about growing microgreens and sprouts—from seed selection to harvest. Ready to grow your greens? Let’s get started!
What Are Microgreens and Sprouts?
Though often used interchangeably, microgreens and sprouts are not the same thing. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Category | Sprouts | Microgreens |
|---|---|---|
| Growth stage | Germinated seeds with root and shoot | Seedlings with stems and leaves |
| Growing time | 3–7 days | 7–21 days |
| Growing medium | Water only (jar or sprouter) | Soil or growing mat |
| Light needed | No light | Bright light or sunlight |
| Harvest | Whole plant including root | Cut stem and leaves, roots remain |
Both are packed with nutrients and can be grown year-round with minimal space and supplies.
Health Benefits of Microgreens and Sprouts
Microgreens and sprouts are not just trendy—they’re also superfoods. Studies show that they can contain 4–40x the nutrient density of their mature counterparts. Here are just a few benefits:
Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and E
Loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients
Promote gut health and digestion
May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol
Great source of plant-based protein and fiber
For those following plant-based or raw diets, adding fresh greens to meals is an easy and affordable way to boost nutrition.
Best Microgreens and Sprouts to Grow
Top Microgreens:
Radish – Peppery and fast-growing
Broccoli – Mild and packed with sulforaphane
Sunflower – Nutty flavor and crunchy texture
Pea shoots – Sweet, tender, and refreshing
Beet greens – Vibrant color and earthy taste
Popular Sprouts:
Alfalfa – Classic sandwich topper, mild flavor
Mung beans – Crunchy and high in protein
Lentils – Quick to sprout, excellent for salads
Clover – Similar to alfalfa, very nutrient-rich
Fenugreek – Slightly bitter, known for detox benefits
Explore our Microgreens and Sprouting Seed Collection to get started with high-quality, non-GMO seeds.
How to Grow Sprouts in a Jar
Growing sprouts is incredibly easy and requires no soil or light. All you need is a mason jar, sprouting lid, and clean water.
Step-by-Step Sprouting Guide:
Soak your seeds in a jar with water for 6–12 hours.
Drain and rinse the seeds, then invert the jar at an angle to drain completely.
Rinse and drain twice daily.
After 3–5 days, your sprouts will be ready to eat!
Rinse thoroughly before storing in the fridge (up to 1 week).
Use a Sprouting Jar Kit to make the process even easier and cleaner.
How to Grow Microgreens Indoors
Microgreens require a bit more setup but offer a more diverse range of flavors and textures. You’ll need trays, soil or a growing mat, light, and of course, seeds.
Microgreens Growing Instructions:
Fill a shallow tray with 1–2 inches of potting mix or place a moistened growing mat inside.
Evenly scatter seeds across the surface. Press gently into the soil—don’t bury them.
Mist with water and cover the tray with a lid or another tray for 2–3 days (germination stage).
Uncover and expose to light (sunny window or grow light) once seeds sprout.
Water lightly once or twice daily with a spray bottle.
Harvest in 7–14 days by snipping greens at the base.
Our All-in-One Microgreens Kit includes everything you need to start your indoor greens garden.
Common Growing Questions
Do I need special seeds for microgreens and sprouts?
Yes! Use seeds labeled as untreated and food-safe for sprouting. Our curated selection ensures no chemical coatings or fungicides.
How do I prevent mold?
Good airflow, clean equipment, and not overwatering are key. Rinse sprouts thoroughly and use drainage-friendly trays for microgreens.
Can I regrow microgreens?
Generally, no. Microgreens are harvested at the seedling stage and don’t regrow once cut. It’s best to replant a new batch every 1–2 weeks.
Sustainable Gardening with Microgreens and Sprouts
One of the best things about microgreens and sprouts is their eco-friendliness:
Minimal water and space required
No synthetic fertilizers or pesticides
Less food waste—you grow only what you need
No plastic packaging or transport emissions
Whether you’re growing in an apartment, dorm room, or kitchen counter, these greens are a smart, sustainable solution for fresh produce year-round.
Start Small, Grow Green
Microgreens and sprouts are a simple, nutrient-rich addition to your daily diet and a fantastic introduction to growing your own food. They require little space, no gardening experience, and deliver fresh greens in days—not weeks or months.
At PlantingWell.com, we make it easy to get started with eco-conscious supplies, expert tips, and non-GMO seeds tailored for your success.
