If you’re short on space but still want to grow delicious and nutritious vegetables for the table, consider giving microgreens a try. You don’t need a big vegetable garden, and you don’t have to worry about deer, rabbits, or other pests. Microgreens are perfect for growing in a container on a balcony or deck, inside under grow lights, or in a sunny window. What are microgreens? They are the seedlings of edible leafy vegetables, like broccoli, kale, tat soi, and lettuce, harvested shortly after germination when they are less than 2 inches tall. The cotyledons (the seed leaves) and the first one or two true leaves are harvested by snipping off the plants with scissors just above the surface of the soil. Microgreens are used fresh as salads, either on their own or added to other salad ingredients, and as edible garnishes, the kind you see in trendy restaurants. Because they’re quick to grow and harvest, microgreens are a great way to involve children in growing (and eating) vegetables.

You can use just about any edible green as a microgreen. You can sow a single variety, or you can purchase mixes of seeds specifically designed for microgreen cultivation. If you make your own mix, make sure the varieties you choose germinate under similar conditions and at similar times. Sow the seeds on the surface of the potting mix in a shallow container or flat. You can sow seeds thickly, ⅛ to ¼ inch apart, because you will harvest the seedlings before they show signs of crowding. Press the seeds firmly into the mix and, unless the seed packet says otherwise, cover lightly with additional potting mix or vermiculite. Keep the potting mix moist. Germination and growth are best between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Germination should occur in about a week or so (depending on the species), and harvesting can commence in a week or two later, when the seedlings reach the appropriate size. Sow a new batch every week for a continuous supply.

The Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox stands ready to help you select plants suitable for microgreens. Just type “microgreens” into the search box to see a list of 28 species of vegetables and herbs suitable for microgreen cultivation. Microgreens pack fresh flavor and nutrition into tiny, tender plants, and they couldn't be easier to grow. Give them a try!