How to Grow Microgreens in January: Tips, Advice, and Best Varieties

Introduction
Microgreens are the tender, nutrient-dense young shoots of vegetables and herbs harvested just a few weeks after sowing. Packed with flavor and vibrant colors, they are perfect for salads, garnishes, and adding a burst of freshness to your meals. Growing microgreens indoors in January is easy and rewarding, requiring minimal space and effort. This guide will walk you through how to grow microgreens successfully in January, the best varieties to try, and answers to common questions for a bountiful harvest.

Why Grow Microgreens in January?

Growing microgreens in January has several benefits:

• Quick Results: Microgreens are ready to harvest in 1–3 weeks, making them one of the fastest crops to grow.
• Year-Round Growth: Microgreens can be grown indoors year-round, regardless of outdoor conditions.
• Nutritional Value: They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
• Low Space Requirements: Microgreens are ideal for small spaces, requiring only a windowsill, tray, or countertop.

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

Are you starting an allotment or planning on growing your own fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a kitchen garden? If so we highly recommend the book Allotment Month By Month. This does exactly what it does on the cover to help you with what you should be doing in the allotment and kitchen garden each month. Below you can see the link for Amazon where you can purchase the book directly. This book is extremely popular with all allotment holders as you will read in the reviews:-

You can check out all the allotment and kitchen garden books we recommend here.

Best Microgreens Varieties to Grow in January

Choose fast-growing and flavorful varieties for a diverse and colorful harvest. Here are some popular options:

1. Radish Microgreens

• Spicy and crisp, these add a peppery kick to salads and sandwiches.

2. Sunflower Microgreens

• Nutty, crunchy, and packed with protein, sunflower microgreens are a favorite for snacking.

3. Pea Shoots

• Sweet and tender, pea shoots are perfect for salads, stir-fries, and garnishes.

4. Mustard Microgreens

• Bold and spicy, mustard greens bring a flavorful punch to any dish.

5. Basil Microgreens

• Aromatic and flavorful, basil microgreens are great for Italian dishes and garnishes.

6. Broccoli Microgreens

• Mild and packed with nutrients, broccoli microgreens are a superfood powerhouse.

7. Beet Microgreens

• Sweet and earthy with vibrant red stems, these add color and flavor to your dishes.

8. Cilantro Microgreens

• Delicate and fragrant, cilantro microgreens are ideal for Mexican and Asian cuisines.

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Microgreens in January

1. Choose the Right Growing Medium

• Microgreens grow best in shallow trays filled with a lightweight, well-draining medium like seed-starting compost, coconut coir, or vermiculite.
• Use a tray with drainage holes or ensure proper water control to avoid waterlogging.

2. Select the Right Container

• Use shallow trays or seedling flats. Recycled containers like takeout trays or baking pans can also work as long as they are cleaned thoroughly and have drainage.

3. Preparing the Seeds

• Some seeds, like sunflower and pea shoots, benefit from soaking in water for 6–12 hours before sowing to encourage faster germination.
• Ensure you use untreated seeds labeled for microgreen or sprouting purposes.

4. Sowing Microgreen Seeds

• Spread seeds evenly over the surface of the growing medium.
• Avoid overcrowding, but ensure good seed coverage for a dense harvest.
• Press seeds gently into the surface and mist lightly with water.

5. Germination Stage

• Cover the tray with a clear plastic lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture and warmth.
• Place the tray in a warm, dark location until seeds germinate (usually 2–7 days, depending on the variety).

6. Providing Light and Water

• Once seeds germinate, remove the cover and place the tray in a bright location with indirect sunlight or under grow lights.
• Ensure plants receive 12–16 hours of light daily for optimal growth.
• Water the tray gently from the bottom or mist the plants lightly to keep the medium evenly moist.

7. Harvesting Microgreens

• Most microgreens are ready to harvest when they are 5–10cm (2–4 inches) tall, typically 7–21 days after sowing.
• Use scissors to cut the microgreens just above the soil line.

Caring for Microgreens as They Grow

• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water can lead to mold or fungal issues. Water only when the growing medium feels dry.
• Rotate Trays: If using natural light, rotate trays daily to prevent plants from leaning towards the light source.
• Sanitize Equipment: Wash trays and tools between uses to prevent the spread of diseases.

Top 10 Questions and Answers About Growing Microgreens

1. Can I grow microgreens in January?

Answer: Yes, microgreens are perfect for indoor cultivation and can be grown year-round, including in January.

2. How long do microgreens take to grow?

Answer: Most microgreens are ready to harvest in 1–3 weeks, depending on the variety.

3. Can I grow microgreens without soil?

Answer: Yes, microgreens can be grown on non-soil mediums like coconut coir, vermiculite, or even damp paper towels.

4. How much light do microgreens need?

Answer: Microgreens need 12–16 hours of bright, indirect light daily. Use grow lights if natural light is insufficient.

5. Do I need to fertilize microgreens?

Answer: Microgreens typically don’t need additional fertilizer, as they rely on the nutrients stored in the seed.

6. How do I prevent mold on microgreens?

Answer: Ensure proper air circulation, avoid overwatering, and don’t overcrowd seeds.

7. Can I reuse the soil or medium for another batch?

Answer: It’s best to use fresh growing medium for each batch to prevent disease and ensure healthy growth.

8. What are the easiest microgreens to grow?

Answer: Radish, pea shoots, sunflower, and mustard greens are among the easiest and fastest to grow.

9. Can I grow microgreens in small spaces?

Answer: Yes, microgreens are ideal for small spaces like windowsills, countertops, or shelves.

10. Are microgreens healthier than mature greens?

Answer: Yes, microgreens often contain higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to mature greens.

Conclusion

Growing microgreens in January is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy fresh, nutrient-rich greens in just a few weeks. Whether you prefer spicy radish shoots, nutty sunflower greens, or tender pea shoots, microgreens offer endless variety and flavor. With minimal space, effort, and time, you can cultivate vibrant, healthy greens to enhance your meals. Start sowing now and enjoy the freshness of homegrown microgreens all winter long!

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

If you love podcasts and are passionate about gardening, why not tune in to Gardening with Ben’s Allotment Podcasts? Packed with tips, inspiration, and plenty of down-to-earth advice, Ben’s podcasts are perfect for anyone looking to get the most out of their garden or allotment.

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