Microgreens...the new craze!

We love supporting local farmers and especially hyper-local farmers! We strongly believe the hyper local, urban farm movement is a necessity in strengthening our local food system. That’s why we are always proud to help new urban farmers, such as MicrogreensLA, launch into the farmers’ market world.

So what exactly is a microgreen? Good question. Here is how MicrogreensLA describes them:

Microgreens are tiny greens that are older than a sprout and younger than a full-grown plant. Microgreens are harvested after the first true leaves have developed. They are the smallest of the salad greens and herbs, smaller than the “baby greens,” and can be grown from almost any plant variety that would produce a mature edible plant, such as arugula, spinach, radish or basil.

Ok, they are very small (and kinda cute) but why should we buy them?

According to Farmer Joe Terry of MicrogreensLA, the nutrition story really sets them apart. 1 OUNCE of Microgreen Broccoli contains the equivalent nutrition to 24 ounces (1.5 pounds) of mature Broccoli florets. That's a 24-to-1 ratio. Talk about a superfood!!

Microgreens are usually grown in trays due to their quick turnaround and delicate nature. They germinate in soil or soil substitute, require sunlight for growth and are harvested when they’re seven to 14 days old and one to three inches tall. (For comparison, sprouts are seeds that germinate after soaking in water and grow for up to 48 hours before they’re harvested.) The flavor of microgreens is much more intense than that of mature greens. You can add them to salads, use them to garnish soups and sandwiches or just munch on them as a snack. Best to be eaten raw so as to not diminish the nutrient value.

Because of their youthfulness, microgreens don’t last long. Be prepared to eat them within 3-4 days.

Farmer Mark and Farmer Joe celebrating MicrogreensLA Organic registration.