Microgreens vs. Regular Greens: What's the Difference and Why Grow Both?
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If you've ever wondered whether to plant a full vegetable garden or try your hand at microgreens, the answer might surprise you: both have their place. Whether you're working with a raised bed, a container on your patio, or just a sunny windowsill, understanding the difference between microgreens and regular greens can help you grow smarter and eat better year-round.
What Are Microgreens?
Microgreens are young vegetable and herb seedlings harvested just after the first true leaves appear, typically 7 to 14 days after germination. They are not sprouts (which are germinated seeds eaten root and all) and they are not baby greens (which grow longer before harvest). Microgreens hit a sweet spot: small, fast, and packed with flavor.
Common microgreen varieties include:
- Radish (spicy, fast-growing, great for beginners)
- Sunflower (crunchy, nutty flavor)
- Peas (sweet and tender)
- Broccoli (mild, slightly earthy)
- Basil (aromatic, excellent on pizza or pasta)
- Kale and arugula (bold flavor, nutrient-dense)
What Are Regular Greens?
Regular greens, or full-grown leafy vegetables, are grown to maturity before harvest. These include lettuce, spinach, chard, collards, kale, and more. They take longer to grow (typically 30 to 60+ days) but produce larger yields per plant and are more versatile for cooking and meal prep.
Regular greens are ideal for:
- Salads and slaws
- Sautes and stir-fries
- Soups and stews
- Smoothies and juicing
- Meal prepping large batches
Key Differences at a Glance
Time to Harvest: Microgreens are ready in 7 to 14 days. Regular greens take 30 to 60+ days.
Space Required: Microgreens can grow in a shallow tray on a countertop. Regular greens need garden beds, raised beds, or large containers.
Nutrient Density: Microgreens are often cited as having higher concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants per ounce than their mature counterparts.
Flavor Profile: Microgreens tend to be more intense in flavor. Regular greens are milder and more suitable for large portions.
Yield and Cost: Microgreens yield small, frequent harvests. Regular greens provide larger volume over time.
Seasonality: Microgreens can be grown indoors year-round. Regular greens are typically seasonal outdoors, though many grow well in cool weather.
Why Grow Both?
The best home gardens use both. Microgreens fill the gap during winter or in small spaces, giving you fresh greens off your kitchen counter in under two weeks. Regular greens anchor your outdoor garden through spring and fall, providing volume and variety for cooking.
Think of microgreens as your year-round, fast-turnaround crop and regular greens as your seasonal backbone. Together, they keep fresh food on your table no matter the season.
Tips for Getting Started
For Microgreens:
- Use a shallow tray with good drainage and a soilless growing medium or quality potting mix.
- Sow seeds densely, mist gently, and keep in a warm spot with indirect light until germination.
- Move to a bright windowsill or under a grow light once sprouts appear.
- Harvest with scissors at the base of the stem when the first true leaves open.
For Regular Greens:
- Choose a location with at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Prepare your soil or raised bed with compost for moisture retention and fertility.
- Start cool-season greens (lettuce, spinach, kale) in early spring or late summer.
- Water consistently and harvest outer leaves first to extend the growing season.
About Our Seeds
All varieties are Heirloom or Open-Pollinated, no hybrids. Seeds are Non-GMO by practice and untreated (no soaks or coatings). Some varieties are organically grown.
Ready to start growing? Browse our seed collection and find the right varieties for your garden, your space, and your table.