Growing microgreens at home sounds simple, but many beginners run into the same problems: seeds do not germinate, trays get too wet, mold appears, stems grow weak and leggy, or the greens stay yellow longer than expected.
The good news is that most of these problems are easy to avoid when you understand the basic growing process. You do not need a garden, greenhouse, or professional setup. With clean trays, quality seeds, a simple growing medium, water, and enough light, you can grow fresh microgreens indoors on a windowsill, kitchen counter, or small shelf.
This beginner-friendly guide will show you how to grow microgreens at home step by step, what supplies you need, which varieties are easiest to start with, how long microgreens take to grow, and how to avoid common mistakes.
If you are new to the topic, start with our complete guide to what microgreens are.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young edible greens harvested after germination, usually when the first true leaves begin to appear. They are older than sprouts but younger than baby greens.
They are commonly grown from vegetable, herb, and grain seeds such as broccoli, radish, basil, peas, sunflower, mustard, arugula, and cilantro.
Most microgreens are grown in a shallow tray with soil or another growing medium, then harvested by cutting the stems above the surface. Penn State Extension describes microgreens as plants typically grown in soil or substrate and harvested by cutting above the growing medium when the first true leaves appear.
Why Grow Microgreens at Home?
Growing microgreens at home is a good option if you want fresh greens but do not have much space.
You can grow them:
- indoors;
- without a garden;
- in small trays;
- under a grow light;
- near a bright window;
- in soil or soilless growing media.
Microgreens are also fast compared to many garden crops. Purdue Extension notes that microgreens can produce fresh greens in roughly 7 to 21 days, depending on the crop and growing conditions.
For beginners, this is one of the biggest advantages: you can plant a tray and see results quickly.
What You Need to Grow Microgreens at Home
You do not need many supplies to start. A basic setup is enough for your first tray.
1. Microgreens Seeds
Use seeds meant for microgreens or sprouting. Do not use treated garden seeds unless the label clearly says they are safe for edible sprouts or microgreens.
Good beginner-friendly options include:
radish microgreens
broccoli microgreens
mustard microgreens
arugula microgreens
pea microgreens
sunflower microgreens
basil microgreensRadish, broccoli, mustard, and arugula are usually easier for a first tray because they germinate quickly and grow fast.
Larger seeds like peas and sunflower usually do better when soaked before planting.
2. Growing Tray
A shallow tray works best. Many growers use standard microgreens trays, but you can start with a small food-safe container.
A good tray should be:
shallow
clean
food-safe
easy to drain
wide enough for even seed spreadingA tray with drainage holes is helpful. You can place it inside a second tray without holes to catch excess water.
This setup also makes bottom watering easier.
3. Growing Medium
Microgreens can be grown in soil or in soilless media.
Common options include:
seed-starting mix
potting soil
coco coir
hemp mats
jute mats
microgreens growing matsFor beginners, a light seed-starting mix or coco coir is usually the easiest choice.
Soil is forgiving because it holds moisture well and gives roots good support. Soilless mats can be cleaner, but they may require more careful watering.
4. Water
Microgreens need consistent moisture, especially during germination.
The growing medium should stay:
moist
not dry
not muddy
not soakedToo much water is one of the most common beginner mistakes. It can lead to mold, weak stems, and poor airflow around the plants.
5. Light
Microgreens need light after germination. A sunny window can work, but a grow light usually gives more consistent results.
UF/IFAS Extension notes that microgreens can be grown under natural or artificial light, which makes them practical for home gardeners growing indoors.
If your microgreens are tall, pale, and falling over, they probably need stronger light.
Best Microgreens for Beginners
Not all microgreens are equally easy. Some grow quickly and forgive small mistakes. Others need more patience.
Radish Microgreens
Radish microgreens are one of the easiest choices for beginners. They germinate quickly, grow fast, and have a spicy flavor.
Use them in:
salads
sandwiches
wraps
bowls
garnishesBroccoli Microgreens
Broccoli microgreens are mild, popular, and easy to use in everyday meals.
They are a good choice if you want a simple beginner crop that is not too spicy.
Pea Microgreens
Pea microgreens, often called pea shoots, have a sweet and fresh flavor. They usually need soaking before planting.
They are great for:
salads
stir-fries
sandwiches
soups
side dishesSunflower Microgreens
Sunflower microgreens have thick stems, a nutty flavor, and a crunchy texture.
They are popular but need a little more attention than radish or broccoli because the seeds are larger and usually need soaking.
Basil Microgreens
Basil microgreens are aromatic, tender, and flavorful. They are excellent for pasta, pizza, salads, and garnish.
However, basil is usually slower than radish, broccoli, or mustard. For your first tray, start with faster crops. Then try basil when you understand the basic process.
How to Grow Microgreens Step by Step
The exact process can vary by seed type, but the basic method is the same for most microgreens.
Penn State Extension provides a step-by-step home growing process that includes measuring seed density, preparing trays, sowing seeds, and managing light and watering.
Step 1: Choose One Easy Seed Variety
Do not start with too many varieties at once.
For your first tray, choose one of these:
radish
broccoli
mustard
arugulaThese are faster and easier than slower crops like basil, cilantro, or parsley.
Starting with one crop helps you understand watering, light, germination, and harvest timing without confusion.
Step 2: Clean Your Tray
Cleanliness matters because microgreens are often eaten raw.
Before planting:
wash the tray
remove old roots or soil
use clean tools
use fresh water
avoid dirty reused containersThis helps reduce the risk of mold and contamination.
Step 3: Add Growing Medium
Add about 0.5 to 1 inch of growing medium to the tray.
Spread it evenly and press it down lightly. The surface should be flat so the seeds can germinate evenly.
Do not compact the soil too much. Roots need air as well as moisture.
Step 4: Moisten the Growing Medium
Water the growing medium before adding seeds.
It should feel damp, but not soaked.
A good rule:
If water pools on the surface, it is too wet.
If the surface looks dry and dusty, it is too dry.Beginners often overwater because they are afraid the seeds will dry out. Try to keep the tray evenly moist instead of constantly wet.
Step 5: Sow the Seeds Evenly
Spread the seeds across the surface.
Microgreens are planted more densely than regular garden crops because they are harvested young. But do not pile seeds on top of each other.
Uneven seed spreading can cause:
crowded patches
mold
weak stems
uneven growth
poor airflowSmall seeds like broccoli, radish, mustard, and basil can be sprinkled directly over the surface.
Large seeds like peas and sunflower should usually be soaked first.
Step 6: Press the Seeds Lightly
After sowing, press the seeds gently into the growing medium.
You can use:
your hand
a clean flat board
another trayThe goal is not to bury the seeds deeply. The goal is to improve contact between the seeds and the moist surface.
Good seed contact helps with even germination.
Step 7: Cover the Tray for Germination
Many microgreens benefit from a short blackout period.
This means you cover the tray for the first few days while the seeds germinate.
You can use:
another tray
a humidity dome
a light coverDuring this stage, check the tray daily. The seeds should stay moist but not wet.
Remove the cover when the seeds have germinated and the shoots begin to push upward.
Step 8: Move the Tray Into Light
Once the seeds sprout, move the tray to light.
You can use:
a bright windowsill
a grow light
a small indoor growing shelfIf the greens are pale yellow right after blackout, that is normal. They usually turn green after receiving light.
If they become very tall, thin, and weak, they need more light.
Step 9: Water From the Bottom
After germination, bottom watering is usually better than spraying from above.
To bottom water:
place the growing tray inside a second tray
add water to the bottom tray
let the medium absorb moisture
remove extra standing waterThis keeps the leaves drier and can help reduce mold risk.
UF/IFAS Extension also mentions sub-irrigation after germination to avoid excess moisture in the plant canopy.
Step 10: Harvest at the Right Time
Most microgreens are harvested when they are a few inches tall and have developed their first true leaves.
Use clean scissors or a sharp knife and cut just above the growing medium.
Do not pull the plants out by the roots if you want a clean harvest.
After harvesting, compost the used growing medium if it is organic, and wash trays before using them again. Penn State Extension recommends cleaning trays before reuse after harvest.
How Long Do Microgreens Take to Grow?
Most microgreens are ready in about 7 to 21 days, depending on the crop and conditions. Purdue Extension gives this same general range for growing microgreens at home.
Here is a simple beginner estimate:
| Microgreen | Approximate Harvest Time |
|---|---|
| Radish | 6–10 days |
| Broccoli | 7–12 days |
| Mustard | 7–12 days |
| Arugula | 8–12 days |
| Pea shoots | 10–16 days |
| Sunflower | 10–14 days |
| Basil | 14–25 days |
| Cilantro | 16–25 days |
These ranges are approximate. Temperature, seed quality, light, moisture, and airflow can change the timing.
Growing Microgreens in Soil vs Without Soil
You can grow microgreens in soil or without soil. Both methods work.
Growing Microgreens in Soil
Soil is usually better for beginners because it holds moisture well and supports strong root growth.
Soil is a good choice for:
basil microgreens
cilantro microgreens
sunflower microgreens
pea microgreens
beet microgreensGrowing Microgreens Without Soil
You can also grow microgreens on mats or other soilless media.
Common options include:
hemp mats
jute mats
coco coir
grow pads
hydroponic-style matsThis method can be cleaner, but watering may be less forgiving.
Common Microgreens Growing Problems
Most beginner problems come from four things:
too much water
not enough light
poor airflow
old or poor-quality seedsMold on Microgreens
Mold often appears when the tray is too wet, seeds are too crowded, or airflow is poor.
To reduce mold risk:
do not overwater
avoid seed clumping
use clean trays
improve airflow
bottom water after germinationWhite Fuzz on Roots
White fuzz is not always mold. Sometimes it is root hairs.
Root hairs usually appear close to the roots and look even across the tray. Mold often spreads irregularly and may smell bad.
Yellow Microgreens
Yellow microgreens are common after blackout. They have not received light yet.
Move the tray into light. In many cases, the leaves will turn green within a day or two.
Leggy Microgreens
Leggy microgreens are tall, thin, and weak. This usually means they are stretching for light.
Fix it by:
moving the tray closer to the light
using a stronger grow light
giving more hours of light
removing blackout at the right timeSeeds Not Germinating
Poor germination can happen because of:
old seeds
too little moisture
too much water
cold temperatures
seeds planted too deeply
seeds that needed soakingFood Safety Note
Because microgreens are often eaten raw, food safety is important.
Use these basic safety rules:
use clean trays
use seeds intended for microgreens or sprouting
wash hands before handling
use fresh water
avoid standing water
do not eat moldy greens
do not eat greens that smell bad or feel slimy
clean trays before reusing them
store harvested greens in the refrigeratorPenn State Extension specifically discusses food safety in microgreens production and notes that microgreens are typically grown in soil or substrate and harvested by cutting above the growing medium.
This does not mean microgreens are unsafe. It means cleanliness matters because they are young plants and are commonly eaten fresh.
How to Grow Specific Microgreens
Once you understand the basic process, you can grow many different microgreens. Each variety has its own timing, flavor, and small growing differences.
How to Grow Basil Microgreens
Basil microgreens are fragrant, tender, and full of flavor. They are slower than many beginner crops, but they are excellent for pasta, pizza, salads, and garnish.
How to Grow Broccoli Microgreens
Broccoli microgreens are mild, easy to grow, and popular with beginners.
How to Grow Pea Microgreens
Pea microgreens, also called pea shoots, are sweet, fresh, and crunchy. They usually need soaking before planting.
How to Grow Radish Microgreens
Radish microgreens are fast, spicy, and one of the easiest crops for a first tray.
How to Grow Sunflower Microgreens
Sunflower microgreens have a nutty flavor and thick texture. They are popular in salads, sandwiches, and wraps.
When to Harvest Microgreens
Harvest microgreens when they look strong, fresh, and ready to eat.
Most are harvested when:
they are 1–3 inches tall
the leaves have opened
the stems are strong
the first true leaves appear
the flavor is goodUse clean scissors and cut above the growing medium.
How to Store Microgreens After Harvest
Microgreens taste best fresh, but you can store them for later.
Basic storage tips:
harvest with clean scissors
keep them dry
avoid washing until needed
use a container with a paper towel
store in the refrigerator
remove any slimy or damaged greensToo much moisture after harvest can make microgreens spoil faster.
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Here are the most common mistakes new growers make.
Using the Wrong Seeds
Do not use treated garden seeds unless they are clearly labeled as safe for edible microgreens or sprouts.
Use seeds sold for:
microgreens
sprouting
food useOverwatering
Too much water is one of the fastest ways to create mold and weak growth.
The tray should be moist, not soaked.
Not Enough Light
If microgreens are pale, tall, and falling over, they probably need more light.
A grow light can make a big difference indoors.
Planting Seeds Too Thickly
Dense planting is normal for microgreens, but too much seed creates poor airflow.
This can lead to mold and uneven growth.
Harvesting Too Late
Microgreens are meant to be harvested young.
If you wait too long, they may become tough, bitter, or crowded.
Simple Beginner Growing Plan
Here is a simple plan for your first tray.
Crop: Radish or broccoli microgreens
Tray: Small shallow tray
Medium: Seed-starting mix or coco coir
Light: Bright window or grow light
Watering: Mist during germination, bottom water after sprouting
Harvest: Around 7–12 daysStart simple. Once you grow one successful tray, try another variety.
Then move to slower or more delicate crops like basil, cilantro, or parsley.
FAQ
Can you grow microgreens without a garden?
Yes. Microgreens can be grown indoors in small trays. You only need seeds, a growing medium, water, and light.
Do microgreens need sunlight?
Microgreens need light after germination. A bright window can work, but a grow light usually gives more consistent results.
Can microgreens grow without soil?
Yes. Microgreens can grow on coco coir, hemp mats, jute mats, and other soilless growing media.
How often should you water microgreens?
Keep the growing medium moist but not soaked. Mist during germination if needed, then use bottom watering after the seeds sprout.
Why are my microgreens yellow?
They may be yellow because they were covered during blackout. Move them into light and they usually turn green.
Why are my microgreens falling over?
They may be too tall, overcrowded, overwatered, or not getting enough light.
What are the easiest microgreens to grow?
Radish, broccoli, mustard, arugula, and pea shoots are good beginner options.
Do microgreens regrow after cutting?
Most microgreens are grown as a single-harvest crop. Some may regrow slightly, but quality is usually better when you start a new tray.
Can you eat microgreens raw?
Many microgreens are eaten raw in salads, sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, and as garnish. Use clean trays, safe seeds, fresh water, and proper storage.
How long do microgreens last after harvest?
They are best fresh. Many can last several days in the refrigerator if kept dry and stored properly.