Starting a microgreen garden indoors year-round is a practical and rewarding way to ensure a constant supply of fresh, nutrient-dense greens no matter the season. Microgreens are the young seedlings of vegetables and herbs, harvested at just one to three weeks of growth. Despite their small size, they are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a popular choice for health-conscious eaters, home cooks, and indoor gardeners.
This article offers a comprehensive, detailed, and actionable guide on how to start a microgreen garden indoors year-round, whether you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space. You’ll learn everything from choosing the right seeds and growing medium to lighting, watering, harvesting, and troubleshooting common issues. With the right setup and techniques, you can grow microgreens successfully in your kitchen, on a windowsill, or under grow lights all year.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are the edible seedlings of vegetables, herbs, and some grains, harvested after the first true leaves develop. Unlike sprouts, which are grown entirely in water and consumed root and all, microgreens are grown in soil or another medium and harvested above the roots. They are used as toppings, salad bases, garnishes, or ingredients in smoothies and juices.
Common microgreen varieties include:
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Broccoli
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Radish
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Sunflower
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Pea shoots
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Arugula
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Basil
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Cilantro
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Mustard
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Red cabbage
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Beet
Microgreens are not only flavorful but also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Studies have shown that many microgreens contain higher concentrations of nutrients than their mature counterparts.
Why Grow Microgreens Indoors Year-Round?
There are several reasons to grow microgreens indoors throughout the year:
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Constant supply of fresh greens: No need to rely on store-bought produce.
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Space-efficient: You can grow a variety of greens in a small footprint.
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Fast-growing: Most microgreens are ready for harvest in 7–21 days.
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Low-maintenance: No tilling, weeding, or pest control like in outdoor gardens.
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High nutritional value: Small servings deliver dense nutrient content.
Growing indoors also protects your crops from unpredictable weather, pests, and contamination, making it easier to control the quality of your food.
What You Need to Start a Microgreen Garden Indoors
Starting a microgreen garden indoors year-round doesn’t require expensive or elaborate equipment. Here’s a list of essentials:
1. Seeds
Choose high-quality, untreated seeds specifically labeled for microgreen production. Avoid seeds treated with fungicides or pesticides. Start with fast and easy varieties like radish, broccoli, and sunflower, then experiment with others as you gain experience.
2. Growing Trays
Shallow trays (1–2 inches deep) work best for microgreens. You can use standard 10x20 seed starting trays with or without drainage holes. Many gardeners prefer using one tray with holes nested into another tray without holes for bottom watering.
3. Growing Medium
Choose a sterile, lightweight, and absorbent medium such as:
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Seed-starting mix
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Coconut coir
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Vermiculite
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Hemp mats
Avoid heavy garden soil. Organic potting mixes can be used if finely textured and free of large particles.
4. Lighting
Microgreens need strong light to develop vibrant color and flavor. If natural sunlight is insufficient (especially in winter), supplement with LED grow lights or fluorescent shop lights. Position lights 2–4 inches above the greens and provide 12–16 hours of light per day.
5. Watering Tools
Use a spray bottle or a gentle watering can to moisten the soil and seedlings. Bottom watering is ideal to prevent fungal issues and promote strong roots.
6. Air Circulation
Good air circulation helps prevent mold and damping off. Use a small fan near your trays if the growing area is stagnant or humid.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Start a Microgreen Garden Indoors Year-Round
Step 1: Choose Your Seeds
Start with a few easy varieties:
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Broccoli: Mild, nutty flavor; quick to grow (7–10 days).
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Radish: Spicy, crunchy; ready in 5–7 days.
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Sunflower: Crisp and nutty; takes about 7–10 days.
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Pea Shoots: Sweet and tender; 10–14 days.
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Arugula: Peppery and bold; ready in 8–10 days.
Always buy from reputable seed suppliers. Some seed companies offer microgreen-specific mixes designed for taste, nutrition, or color.
Step 2: Prepare the Trays
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Add about 1 inch of moistened growing medium to each tray with drainage holes.
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Smooth the surface and press gently to level.
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Nest the tray with holes into a solid tray to collect water and allow bottom watering.
Step 3: Sow Seeds Evenly
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Scatter seeds evenly across the surface. Some varieties, like mustard or arugula, can be densely sown, while larger seeds like peas and sunflowers need a little more space.
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Press seeds gently into the medium without burying them.
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Mist the surface thoroughly with water.
Step 4: Cover and Germinate
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Cover the tray with another tray (without holes) or use a humidity dome.
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Place in a dark, warm spot (65–75°F) for 2–4 days to germinate.
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Check daily and mist if the medium begins to dry out.
Step 5: Expose to Light
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Once the seeds sprout and begin pushing up the cover, move the tray under lights or near a bright window.
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Keep the lights 2–4 inches above the seedlings.
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Provide 12–16 hours of light per day.
Step 6: Water Carefully
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Use bottom watering by adding water to the bottom tray and allowing the medium to wick moisture upward.
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Refill as needed every 1–2 days.
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Avoid watering from above unless using a fine mister, as excess moisture can cause mold or fungal issues.
Step 7: Provide Air Circulation
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Use a small fan nearby to prevent mold and strengthen stems.
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Avoid direct airflow on seedlings—gentle movement is best.
Step 8: Harvest
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Harvest microgreens when the first true leaves appear and the plants are 2–4 inches tall.
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Use clean scissors or a sharp knife to cut just above the soil line.
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Rinse gently in cold water and dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or towel.
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Store in a container lined with a paper towel in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days.
Year-Round Indoor Growing Tips
1. Stagger Your Plantings
Start new trays every 3–7 days for a continuous harvest cycle. This ensures a fresh supply and prevents waste.
2. Rotate Varieties
Switch up varieties to prevent monotony in flavor and maximize nutrient diversity in your diet.
3. Keep It Clean
Clean trays and tools between plantings to reduce the risk of mold and disease. Use a mild bleach solution (1:10) or white vinegar.
4. Watch for Mold
If white fuzz appears near the base of seedlings, determine if it's root hairs (harmless) or mold (a problem). Improve air flow and reduce surface moisture if mold appears.
5. Optimize Light
Adjust lighting intensity and duration based on the season. Use a timer to maintain a consistent day/night cycle.
Nutritional and Culinary Benefits of Microgreens
Microgreens are not just easy to grow; they offer impressive health benefits:
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High in vitamins C, K, and E
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Rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients
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Some varieties (like broccoli) contain sulforaphane, known for its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
They add fresh flavor, crunch, and vibrant color to dishes:
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Top sandwiches, soups, and pizzas
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Mix into salads or grain bowls
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Blend into smoothies
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Use as garnishes for eggs, tacos, or meat dishes
Scaling Your Microgreen Garden
Once you’re confident with small trays, you can expand your indoor microgreen operation:
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Add more trays using tiered shelving with grow lights.
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Sell excess greens at local farmers markets or to chefs.
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Share with neighbors or community food programs.
For those interested in small-scale urban farming, microgreens are one of the most profitable crops per square foot due to fast turnaround, low input costs, and high market demand.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Mold | Poor airflow, overwatering | Use fans, bottom water, sterilize trays |
| Leggy seedlings | Insufficient light | Lower lights or use stronger LED grow lights |
| Poor germination | Old or poor-quality seeds | Use fresh, untreated seeds |
| Uneven growth | Uneven seed distribution | Sow seeds more evenly |
| Wilting or yellowing | Underwatering or nutrient deficiency | Ensure regular watering and light exposure |
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to start a microgreen garden indoors year-round gives you the power to grow food with precision, even in limited space. Whether you're looking to supplement your diet, enhance your culinary skills, or explore small-scale food production, microgreens are the ideal starting point. With low startup costs, fast results, and minimal maintenance, this form of gardening is accessible to nearly anyone.
By following the best practices outlined in this guide—selecting quality seeds, using the right medium, optimizing lighting, and practicing consistent care—you can enjoy fresh greens 365 days a year. Each tray harvested not only nourishes your body but also connects you to the natural rhythms of food cultivation, even from your kitchen countertop or living room shelf.