Microgreens are often mistaken for sprouts but there are distinct differences. Microgreens have more nutritional value and a higher concentration of antioxidants. However, they also take longer to grow and are more challenging to harvest. They provide an excellent source of Vitamins A, Vitamin C Vitamin E, and Iron. Microgreens are the earliest stage of a vegetable plant’s development, after the sprouting stage. Come along as we talk about the differences when comparing microgreens vs. sprouts!
Growth Period | Microgreens vs. Sprouts
When comparing microgreens vs. sprouts the most significant difference is the growth period.
Sprouts are only grown for 3-5 days before they are harvested.
For microgreens, it is usually 7-14 days before they are harvested. Some farmers prefer to grow them up to 25 days, or until the first set of true leaves expand. In particular, the herb varieties are usually slow growers.
If you grow your plant for a more extended period, it will develop into baby greens. This usually happens between 3–4 weeks. As a result, the baby greens are considered a leafy vegetable.
Growing Medium | Microgreens vs. Sprouts
Sprouts don’t require additional nutrition to grow. Instead, they use the nutrition stored inside the seed (endosperm) to grow. Water is the only requirement needed. Therefore, hydroponic medium is preferred. It’s common to see people using a paper towel or just a mason jar for growing sprouts.
On the other hand, microgreens require additional nutrition from the soil to grow. Soil is the preferred growing medium, such as potting mix, coconut coir or peat moss. You can still grow them using the hydroponic method with a growing mat, however, they will need an added nutritional solution.
Growing Conditions & Risk Factors | Microgreens vs. Sprouts
Sprouts are grown in a damp, poorly ventilated and low light environment. Consequently, these are the ideal conditions for bacteria and mold growth. That’s why you should not eat them raw because there are many cases of food borne illnesses cause by doing so.
For microgreens, the environment is wet, but not soggy, well ventilated and exposed to good light. Therefore, there are fewer health concerns and they can be consumed raw.
As an example, sprouts are grown more like a fungus in an area with high humidity and low light. On the other hand, microgreens grow similar to a plant by directly absorbing nutrition from the seed soil and light (photosynthesis).
Microgreens vs. Sprouts Comparisons
| MICROGRRENS | SPROUTS | |
| TIME TO HARVEST | 7-14 DAYS | 3-5 DAYS |
| LENGTH | LONGER: 4-7 INCHES | SHORTER: 2-3 INCHES |
| GROWTH MEDIUM | SOIL OR HYDROPONICALLY | HYDROPONICALLY |
| APPEARANCE | TRUE LEAVES | ONLY SEED LEAVES (COTYLEDON) |
| LIGHT REQUIREMENT | REQUIRES LIGHT | NO LIGHT |
| VENTILATION REQUIREMENT | REQUIRES AIR VENTILATION | NO AIR VENTILATION |
| VARIETIES | OVER 80 TYPES | LIMITED IN CHOICES |
| HOW TO EAT | ONLY PART ABOVE SOIL | SEED, ROOT, STEM, SEED LEAVES |
| RECIPES TO INCLUDE | SOUP, SALAD, SANDWICHES, GARNISH AND VARIOUS DISHES | GREAT FOR CRUNCH & STIR-FRY |
| FIBER CONTENT | MORE THAN SPROUTS | LESS THAN MICROGREENS |
| NUTRITIONAL CONTENT | MORE THAN SPROUTS | LESS THAN MICROGREENS |
| COST TO PURCHASE | MORE EXPENSIVE | CHEAPER |
SUSTAINABLE & LOCALLY GROWN
Microgreens are grown more sustainably compared to conventional agricultural practices. They use less water, need no fertilizer or pesticides and use less land through vertical farming, less transportation and provides a more sustainable community by putting money back into your local economy.
At Smoky Mountain Farmhouse we strive to improve the health and sustainability of our local community.
Click here for information on where to buy our microgreens.
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