Sunflower microgreens are a gourmet veggie that is harvested when the plant is young, usually when the leaves are about 2-3 inches tall. Packed with both flavor and nutrients, they are a popular ingredient in salads and as a garnish on many different types of dishes. Microgreens in general are a popular ingredient in high-class restaurants, but they’re so easy to grow that there’s no reason to pay a fortune if you want to try adding them as a garnish to your favorite dish. Before we get into growing sunflowers, let’s first take a look at microgreens in general and understand why this foodie trend is all the rage these days.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young greens that are harvested before they reach maturity, shortly after they germinate. They’re usually between 1 and 3 inches tall and are harvested within 7 to 14 days. The most popular types of microgreens include arugula, beet greens, broccoli, cabbage, kale, and radish. Microgreens are a great way to add flavor, texture, and nutrition to your meals because younger plants are packed full of flavor that usually are not as strong in the mature plant.
What Are the Benefits of Microgreens?
Microgreens are a powerhouse of nutrients. They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as carotenoids and flavonoids. In fact, microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their fully-grown counterparts! That means that just a handful of microgreens can give you a serious nutritional boost. They’re also low in calories and fat-free, making them a great addition to any healthy diet.
Growing Sunflower Microgreens at Home in 6 Easy Steps
If you love gardening and enjoy eating healthy, then growing your own sunflower microgreens is a great way to get fresh, nutritious greens right from your own kitchen, garage, or even outdoors when the weather’s right for it! Here’s how to grow your microgreens like a pro for the first time.
1. Start with high-quality sunflower seeds. You can find these at your local garden center or online. Avoid using seeds that have been treated with chemicals or pesticides.
2. Soak the seeds in water for 12-24 hours before planting. This will help them germinate faster.
3. Plant the seeds in soil that is light and well-draining. You can either plant them in a pot or directly in the ground.
4. Water the plants regularly, making sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Too much water can rot the roots and kill the plants.
5. Harvest the microgreens when they are 2-3 inches tall by snipping them off at the base with sharp scissors. Wash them thoroughly before eating.
6. Enjoy your fresh, homegrown sunflower microgreens!
Growing sunflower microgreens is a fun and easy way to get fresh, nutritious greens grown right in your own home! With just a few simple supplies and some basic instructions, you can have your very own crop of sunflower microgreens in no time at all!
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