Microgreens are baby plants harvested at the first true leaves. They grow in 7–14 days, need minimal space, and sell for $15–40 per pound. A 10 sq ft area can generate hundreds of dollars per month. This guide covers setup, seeds, harvest, and sales for high profit in tiny spaces.

Variety	Days to Harvest	Seed Density (per 10×20 tray)	Price Range (per oz)
Pea shoots	10–14	1–1.5 lb	$3–6
Sunflower	8–12	4–6 oz	$2–4
Radish	6–10	1–2 oz	$2–4
Broccoli	7–10	1–1.5 oz	$2–5
Arugula	7–10	0.5–1 oz	$3–5
Mustard	6–10	0.5–1 oz	$2–4
Kale	8–12	1–1.5 oz	$2–4
Beet	10–14	1–2 oz	$3–6

What You Need to Start

• 10×20 inch trays (or similar) with drainage
• Growing medium: soil, coco coir, or hemp mat
• Seeds (buy in bulk for better margins)
• Light: shop lights or LED grow lights, 12–16 hours per day
• Shelving or table space
• Spray bottle or gentle watering system

Start-up cost: $100–300 for a small setup. Use our profit estimator to model returns. Microgreens fit into a year-round schedule as your winter income backbone.

Step-by-Step Growing Process

1. Soak Large Seeds

Pea, sunflower, and beet seeds benefit from 6–12 hours soaking. Drain before sowing. Small seeds (radish, broccoli, arugula) do not need soaking.

2. Fill Trays

Add 1–2 inches of moist growing medium. Level the surface. Pre-moisten soil so it is damp but not soggy.

3. Sow Seeds

Spread seeds evenly. Density varies by variety (see table). Press small seeds lightly into the surface. Cover large seeds with a thin layer of medium or a second tray for blackout.

4. Blackout Period

Stack trays or use a cover for 2–4 days. This encourages stem elongation. Mist daily. Remove cover when stems are 1–2 inches.

5. Light and Water

Place under lights. Water from bottom or mist gently. Avoid overhead watering once leaves appear to prevent mold. Harvest when first true leaves appear (7–14 days depending on variety).

Best Varieties for Profit

Pea shoots and sunflower are top sellers. Radish and broccoli are easy and fast. Mix colors and flavors for salad blends. Chefs pay premium for variety and consistency. See best crops for small backyards for the full revenue picture. Pair microgreens with fast-growing vegetables for diversified income.

Harvest and Post-Harvest

Cut with sharp scissors just above the soil. Harvest in the morning when plants are turgid. Rinse gently if needed; spin or air dry. Pack in clamshells or bags. Store at 36–40°F. Shelf life: 5–10 days. Sell within 2–3 days for best quality.

Sales Channels

• Farmers markets: high visibility, direct feedback
• Restaurants: steady orders, premium prices
• CSA boxes: add microgreens as an option
• Online and local delivery: growing demand

Start with one channel. Build relationships. Expand as production grows. Check local regulations for selling homegrown produce.

Common Problems

Problem	Cause	Fix
Mold	Too wet, poor air flow	Reduce water, add fan, improve drainage
Leggy, pale	Not enough light	Move lights closer, increase hours
Slow growth	Cold, low light	Warm room, check lights
Seeds not germinating	Old seeds, too dry	Fresh seeds, keep moist during germination

Scaling Up

Add more trays and shelving. Stagger planting so you harvest every 2–3 days. A 4-shelf unit can hold 16–24 trays in rotation. Track costs and revenue with our calculators. Microgreens complement outdoor crops in a backyard garden plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do microgreens take to grow?

Most varieties harvest in 7–14 days. Radish and mustard are fastest at 6–10 days. Pea shoots and beet take 10–14 days.

Do microgreens need sunlight?

They need bright light for 12–16 hours per day. A sunny window can work; LED or fluorescent grow lights are more reliable for consistent, year-round production.

What is the most profitable microgreen?

Pea shoots and sunflower typically sell for the highest prices and have strong demand. Radish and broccoli are easier to grow and still profitable. Mix varieties for salad blends.

Can I grow microgreens without soil?

Yes. Coco coir, hemp mats, or other soilless media work. Some growers use hydroponic mats. The key is moisture retention and drainage during the short growth cycle.