Question 1

What is the difference between microgreens and sprouts?

Accepted Answer

Sprouts are germinated seeds eaten whole (root, seed, and shoot) after 2–5 days, grown in water with no light needed; microgreens are tiny plants harvested above the soil line at 7–21 days, grown in soil or growing media with light—they're more flavorful and nutritionally dense.

Question 2

Which microgreens are easiest to grow for beginners in India?

Accepted Answer

Start with radish (7–10 days, spicy, almost impossible to fail), sunflower (10–14 days, nutty and satisfying), mustard (sarson, 8–12 days, peppery), and methi/fenugreek (10–14 days, familiar Indian flavor)—all are fast, forgiving, and available as seeds locally.

Question 3

Can I grow microgreens without sunlight?

Accepted Answer

Yes—microgreens grow well under LED grow lights (12–16 hours/day, 100–300 PPFD); in fact, artificial light gives you more consistent results than a window because you control intensity and duration regardless of weather or season.

Question 4

How much does it cost to start growing microgreens at home?

Accepted Answer

A basic setup costs ₹500–1,500: shallow trays (₹50–100 each), cocopeat or soil (₹100–200), seeds (₹50–200 per variety), spray bottle (₹50–100); add ₹2,000–4,000 for LED grow light if growing indoors without good window light.

Question 5

Are microgreens safe to eat raw?

Accepted Answer

Yes—microgreens are safe to eat raw when grown hygienically; use clean trays, fresh growing media, and clean water; harvest with clean scissors; wash gently before eating; avoid consuming if you see mold (fuzzy gray/black growth, not root hairs which are white and normal).

Microgreens and Sprouts: Complete Guide to Growing Nutrient-Dense Greens at Home (India Setup, Seeds, Methods & Business)

Microgreens and Sprouts: Complete Guide to Growing Nutrient-Dense Greens at Home (India Setup, Seeds, Methods & Business)