Seed Sprouting Guide

What are sprouts and microgreens?

Sprouts and microgreens are similar in that they are both baby plants and encompass the early stages of germination. When consuming sprouts the seed has only started germination and the radicle (or root) is visible. For microgreens the seed is left to grow and once the cotyledons (or seed leaves) have started to photosynthesize this above ground foliage is cut and consumed.

Both sprouts and microgreens are packed with available nutrients and enzymes. Sugars are also released through germination making them a tasty treat!

Small seeds like clover and radish are best for sprouting. Nuts are an exception and peas and beans should still be cooked prior to eating. Larger seeds like beans, sunflower and corn are best as microgreens. These will require supplemental light to maximize their food value. Sprouts do not normally require light.

Quick Instructions: Sprouts

1. Collect seed in a mason jar and soak for 12 hours. Seed will double in size. Use the screen lid to drain excess water.
2. Rinse seed with water 1-2 times per day and drain upside down on an angle with room for air to circulate until the seed starts to germinate.
3. Allow the radicle to grow to desired length (2-3 days) then store in the refrigerator with sealed lid for up to 2 weeks. Eat and enjoy!

Quick Instructions: Microgreens

1. Fill a propagation tray with potting soil. Lightly sprinkle seed and cover with soil. Water and wait.
2. Place under a grow light or sunny window and harvest foliage as they mature. Supplement water with kelp.

Sprout Seed Varieties:

1. Sunflower – Black Oil – Best as a micro green. Soak or sow directly in flats and germinate on a windowsill or under a grow light for 1-2 weeks. Sample as they grow!
2. Sandwich booster – Sprout mix of clover, alfalfa, radish and mustard. Easy 5-day sprout that grows well in a jar or bag.
3. Red Clover – Soak and sprout on a windowsill for 7 days. Rinse daily. Can also be used a perennial cover crop.
4. Ancient Eastern Blend – Contains Fenugreek, Lentils, Kamut, and Adzuki beans. Soak and sprout for 3 days, shoots in 7.
5. Mung Bean – A familiar sprout found in most grocery stores. Soak and sprout in the dark for 3 days or 7 for longer crunchy radicals.
6. Fava Bean – Great grown as a large micro green 1-2 weeks from sowing. 3 day old sprouts are excellent cooked in soup.
7. Coriander – Best as a microgreen. Soak or sow directly in flats and germinate on a windowsill or under a grow light for 2-3 weeks. Sample as they grow!
8. Radish Daikon – Excellent choice for those looking for that fresh mild radish tang. Soak and sprout for 3 days or germinate and harvest microgreens no later than the cotyledon stage.
9. Flax – A bit tricky but great for making your own sprouted flax crackers or as a powerful microgreen.

Sprouting Jars are also available.