10 microgreens to sow now

Are you in need of a health boost at this time of year? Then consider micro leaves. Bursting with flavour and loaded with vitamins, these mini veg are perfect for sprinkling into salads or sandwiches, or over meat, fish and veggies.

Micro leaves are simply the seedlings of leafy herbs and plants that we would usually allow to grow to full size before harvesting. And before you write them off, assuming they’re a fad ingredient for celebrity chefs and cooking show contestants, give them a go.

The intensity of flavour is unbeatable and they’re so quick and easy that the kids will love growing them, and will be much happier scoffing a handful of tiny leaves they’ve grown themselves than any shop-bought vegetable.

All microgreens are grown in the same way, sown into the soil and placed in the light. They’re so tiny, they can be grown all year, on a windowsill indoors, in just about anything – from seed trays and old yoghurt pots to pieces of guttering. In fact, guttering is ideal for windowsill growing and can be cut to varying lengths – just tape up the ends to prevent any compost, soil and seeds spilling out when they’re watered.

Ensure a constant micro-leaf harvest by sowing successionally every week, and new leaves should be ready to harvest just as the last batch is ending. Most are ready to pick only a few
days after germinating and have all the flavour of the fully grown plants, bringing a concentrated, pungent burst of taste to whatever you add them to.

1. Broccoli

Days to harvest: 7

How to use: Quite distinct in flavour from the full-grown plant, micro broccoli has a spicy flavour that will pack a punch in salads and omelettes.

2. Rocket

Days to harvest: 7-10

How to use: If you love the peppery taste of rocket, you’ll love the mini version in salads and sandwiches.

3. Radish

Days to harvest: 7

How to use: One of the prettier and faster leaves to grow with red stems and a heat that’s great in stir-fries and egg sandwiches.

4. Coriander

Days to harvest: 14

How to use: Micro coriander is one of the best mini leaves. It’s tiny, flavour-packed leaves can be simply sprinkled onto curries, noodle soups and stir fries – no chopping required!

5. Beetroot

Days to harvest: 10

How to use: Use the red-stemmed leaves to add a splash of colour and a mild beetroot flavour to salads. It is also delicious sprinkled over grilled fish.