Microgreens and Windowsill Herbs: What to Grow in Winter and Spring

At the end of winter we especially crave something green and fresh. The easiest way is to grow microgreens or herbs right on the windowsill. It is quick, cheap and very satisfying: the first shoots appear within days and the harvest in a week or two.

Greenery and flowers for the home: potted plants and tulips.

View full-size photo

What microgreens are

Microgreens are young shoots of vegetables and herbs cut at one to three weeks old, when the seed leaves or the first true leaf have appeared. They are full of flavour and lift salads, sandwiches and soups. Remember that microgreens are a nice addition to the menu, not a substitute for a varied diet.

How long until harvest

View full-size photo

How to grow them

• Container. A shallow tray or container with drainage holes.
• Growing medium. Coconut fibre, a linen mat or light compost. Microgreens need no fertiliser.
• Sowing. Spread seeds thickly, mist lightly and cover for 2–3 days until they sprout.
• Light. Winter daylight is weak, so a grow light for 12–16 hours a day helps.
• Watering. Mist or water from below, avoiding standing water and mould.

Herbs on the windowsill

• Spring onions from bulbs grow even in a glass of water.
• Parsley and dill are slower but can be cut several times.
• Basil loves warmth and plenty of light.
• Mint does best in a pot of its own.

View full-size photo

For more ideas, see gardening with kids and mulching plants.

FAQ

Do I need a grow light?

In winter it is advisable: without extra light the shoots stretch and turn pale.

Can I use ordinary seeds for microgreens?

It is better to buy seeds sold for sprouting or microgreens, as they are not treated with fungicides.

View full-size photo

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.