Microgreens are young, tender, edible crops that are harvested as seedlings. These tiny plants are grown to the first true leaf stage. They should not be confused with sprouts, which are germinated seeds lacking true leaves. Microgreens are sold as a raw product for use in salads, on sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Microgreens production requires a protected environ- ment, such as a greenhouse or high tunnel. It is also possible to produce microgreens indoors under artifi- cial lights. The short turnaround time and potentially high value of microgreens can seem attractive to pro- ducers; however, production is very labor-intensive.
Microgreens are another viable opportunity for farmers with low or no land access. Microgreens must be grown in a sheltered environment such as a high tunnel or greenhouse. They can also be grown indoors using artificial lighting. Microgreens need artificial beds to grow in. Due to their perishability, this also helps with transport and microgreens can even be delivered to consumers or restaurants still planted, allowing the consumer to harvest them themselves. There are different soil alternative solutions to allow for this transport but hydroponic production does not work in this case.
Microgreens could be a great bridge for urban growers!
