The History of Microgreens and How to Grow Them at Home

We have written about microgreens before and we are still keen to beat the drum for absolutely delicious and nutritious microgreens! 

Microgreens have taken the culinary world by storm with their vibrant colours, intense flavours, and impressive nutritional benefits. 

These tiny greens, harvested just after the first leaves have developed, have a fascinating history and are surprisingly easy to grow at home. 

Here’s a dive into their origins and a guide to cultivating your own microgreens.

The History of Microgreens

Microgreens have been around for longer than you might think. While they might seem like a modern trend, they have roots that stretch back several decades.

1980s: The culinary use of microgreens began in the United States, particularly in high-end restaurants in California. Chefs were drawn to the intense flavours and delicate textures that these tiny plants added to dishes.

1990s: Microgreens gained popularity among chefs and food enthusiasts across the globe. Their aesthetic appeal and concentrated nutrients made them a favourite garnish and ingredient.

2000s to Present: The trend has continued to grow, with home gardeners and urban farmers cultivating microgreens due to their quick growth cycle and minimal space requirements. Today, they are a staple in gourmet kitchens and health-conscious homes alike.

Benefits of Microgreens

Microgreens are not just a pretty addition to your plate; they are packed with nutrients.

Nutrient Density: Studies have shown that microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Flavour: Despite their small size, microgreens are bursting with flavour. From the spicy kick of radish microgreens to the sweet taste of pea shoots, they can enhance any dish.

Versatility: Use them in salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and as garnishes. They are a versatile addition to any meal.

How to Grow Microgreens at Home

Growing microgreens at home is a straightforward process that doesn’t require a garden or extensive gardening experience. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Gather Your Supplies:

Seeds: Choose from a variety of seeds such as radish, broccoli, sunflower, pea, and basil. Make sure to buy seeds specifically labelled for microgreens.

Growing Trays: Shallow trays with drainage holes are ideal. You can also repurpose plastic containers.

Soil or Growing Medium: Use a high-quality potting mix or a specialised microgreens growing medium.

Spray Bottle: For watering your microgreens gently.

2. Planting Your Microgreens:

Prepare the Trays: Fill your trays with about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil or growing medium. Smooth the surface but avoid compacting it.

Sow the Seeds: Scatter the seeds evenly over the soil surface. Aim for a dense coverage but avoid overlapping seeds too much.

Cover the Seeds: Lightly press the seeds into the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil or simply leave them uncovered, depending on the seed type.

Watering: Use a spray bottle to moisten the soil thoroughly. Ensure the soil is damp but not waterlogged.

3. Growing Conditions:

Light: Place the trays in a bright location with indirect sunlight. If natural light is insufficient, consider using a grow light.

Temperature: Microgreens grow best in temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F).

Humidity: Cover the trays with a plastic lid or cling film to retain humidity until the seeds germinate.

4. Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist by misting with a spray bottle. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to mould growth.

Ventilation: Once the seeds have germinated, remove the cover to improve air circulation and prevent mould.

5. Harvesting Your Microgreens:

Timing: Most microgreens are ready to harvest in 7-14 days, once they have developed their first set of true leaves.

Harvesting: Use a pair of sharp scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line. Harvest only what you need, leaving the rest to continue growing.

6. Using Your Microgreens:

Storage: Freshly harvested microgreens can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Keep them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

Culinary Uses: Add microgreens to salads, sandwiches, and soups, or use them as a garnish to elevate your dishes.

Final Thoughts

Growing microgreens at home is a rewarding and easy way to add a burst of nutrition and flavour to your meals. With their rich history and simple cultivation process, microgreens are a fantastic addition to any kitchen garden. Give it a go and enjoy the delightful freshness of home-grown microgreens!