Microgreens have steadily turned into a new trend of sorts, especially in terms of growing Microgreens of various kinds and also cultivating Microgreens at home. More and more people are finding solace in growing these nutritional marvels, which also bring them a sense of fulfillment overall.
While there are various types of Microgreens like radish Microgreens, sunflower Microgreens, beetroot Microgreens, and broccoli Microgreens to name only a few, you should always opt for the healthiest Microgreens that offer ample nutrition along with several other health benefits. Coming to what they basically are, it can be said that in spite of being miniscule in size, Microgreens are superfoods that contain several nutrients and benefits for the body.
Microgreens are easy to grow at home and maintain as well. They are hence popular picks in terms of regular food options for those looking to lead a healthier and happier life. The overall gardening work is almost negligible. These greens are hugely versatile, being consumable on their own, in tandem with various items and even as salads or soups for instance. There are 100+ Microgreens available and they have varying degrees of nutrition.
How to grow Microgreens?
Microgreen farming is not that difficult in reality. They are different as compared to sprouts, with germination periods which are longer, and do not necessitate complete water immersion for growth. They are smaller as compared to mature vegetables although they are packed with helpful nutrients. You can grow your Microgreen seeds via hydroponic methods or even usual soil cultivation methods. Hydroponic methods involve plant cultivation in a solution that is rich in water and nutrients. Soil is not used in this system while roots are backed by any other medium like peat moss, clay pellets, rock wool, etc. There are certain microgreen problems also so one must know how to tackle the same too.
If you are using soil for your Microgreens kit, make sure that the seeding rate is worked out for obtaining results. This is the total germinating seeds along with their weight. You can grow these in any container, although the best choice is something that ensures proper moisture and air. Rates of harvesting and germination may vary across Microgreen types.
Various types of Microgreens- Taking a closer look
There are multiple kinds of Microgreens that are available. Here’s a look at only some of them:
1. Sunflower
Sunflowers are highly nutritious, helping in reduced blood cholesterol, infusing vital amino acids, and regulating hormones. They are low-calorie options, while having sizable Vitamins B, D, A, and E. They also have calcium, Lutein, beta-carotene, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and other components. You should soak the sunflower microgreen seeds for 8-24 hours at least, for growing them. The germination timeline is 1-2 days and harvesting is possible in 7-10 days.
2. Radish
This is a popular Microgreen, being easy enough to maintain. They have Vitamins B, A, C, and E, along with Vitamin K. They help in ensuring proper dietary fiber, while reducing constipation. Other components include niacin, folic acid, phosphorus, magnesium, etc. The seeds have to be germinated for four days and can be harvested in 8-12 days as well.
3. Arugula
Arugula Microgreens contains Vitamin C and helps with antioxidants, Vitamins C, A, K and reducing blood pressure as well. They also promote healthier development of bones along with food detoxification. Arugula Microgreens seeds may germinate within five days with harvesting done in 10-14 days.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli Microgreens are hugely nutritious while having a taste which is milder in comparison to bigger Broccoli varieties. Broccoli offers various health benefits, majorly due to its sulforaphane compound. It also contains Vitamins C, A, and K along with helping combat issues like osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s. Broccoli Microgreen seeds’ germination period is small with the total timeline being roughly four days in all. They are fast-growing varieties and harvesting is possible between the 7th and 9th days.
5. Beetroots
Beetroots are of three types, in the Microgreen spectrum, namely Early Wonder Tall Top, Bull’s Blood, and Yellow. The Bull’s Blood has a red color with several nutritional advantages as well. Beet Microgreens are sweeter with rich nitrate, iron, fiber, mineral, folic acid, and vitamin content. They contain Vitamins C, K, and E while helping combat toxins and lowering overall stress levels, headaches and other bodily issues. Beetroots Microgreens seeds take 4-8 hours of soaking for faster germination which requires around 5 days in all. Harvesting is possible within approximately 11-20 days.
6. Basil
Basil Microgreens has several varieties and types including cinnamon, lemon, Genovese, red Rubin, and Thai. Basil offers several medicinal benefits including combating inflammation. Basil Microgreen seeds should be directly planted within slightly moist and medium soil with a germination rate of close to five days. Harvesting is possible in around 12-16 days on average.
About Urja Seeds
Urja Seeds is your one-stop repository for seeds online that includes vegetable seeds, flower seeds, herb and exotic seeds along with microgreen seeds too and that too of almost all types that you can think of! There are several insights available for growers online. You can expect seamless and hassle-free delivery to your doorstep in quick time too.
FAQs
Q1: How many types of Microgreens are there?
Ans: There are more than 100 varieties of Microgreens available as per experts.
Q2: What are the names of some popular microgreens in recent times
Ans: Some of the most popular types of Microgreens in recent times include radishes, broccoli, sunflower, and basil, to name a few.
Q3: Which are the cultivation or growing methods for Microgreens?
Ans: You can either grow Microgreens by using soil in the traditional method or implement hydroponic systems for this purpose.
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