Short answer: harvest microgreens dry (skip watering for 12 hours first), don't wash them, and store them loosely in a container lined with a paper towel at 35 to 40°F (2 to 4°C). Most last 5 to 10 days. Rinse just before eating. Freeze extras only for smoothies, soups or pesto.
How to store microgreens in the fridge
- Harvest dry. Skip watering for about 12 hours before cutting.
- Don't wash yet. Moisture is the enemy.
- Line a container with a dry paper towel.
- Add the greens loosely. Don't pack them down.
- Cover and refrigerate at about 35 to 40°F (2 to 4°C).
- Check every couple of days. Swap the towel if it gets damp, and remove any slimy bits.
How long microgreens last
| Microgreen | Fridge life |
|---|---|
| Pea shoots | 7–10 days |
| Sunflower | 5–8 days |
| Broccoli, kale, cabbage | 5–7 days |
| Radish, mustard | 5–7 days |
| Basil, cilantro | 3–5 days |
Basil darkens in very cold spots, so keep it in a slightly warmer part of the fridge, like the door.
The best container to store microgreens
- A clamshell or lidded box works best. It protects the greens from crushing.
- A zip bag works too. Leave a little air inside so the greens aren't squashed.
- Glass containers keep them cold and are easy to clean.
Can you freeze microgreens?
Yes, for cooking only. Freezing breaks the cell walls, so thawed microgreens are limp. They're still great for:
- Smoothies: freeze in portions and blend from frozen. See microgreens smoothie recipes.
- Pesto: make microgreen pesto, then freeze it in an ice cube tray.
- Soups and stir-fries: add them straight from frozen at the end.
Tips to store microgreens longer
- Cut only what you need. Microgreens last longest uncut in the tray for a day or two.
- Keep the fridge cold. Warm fridges shorten shelf life.
- Keep them away from fruit that gives off ethylene, like apples and bananas.
- Dry before storing if they got wet. A salad spinner works well.
When to throw them out
Discard microgreens that are slimy, smell sour or musty, or show mold. Don't try to rinse and save them.
Growing sprouts too? See how to store sprouts. If you sell your greens, read microgreens packaging.
Frequently asked questions
How long do microgreens last in the fridge?
Most last 5 to 10 days if harvested dry and stored well. Pea shoots and sunflower last longest. Delicate greens like basil and cilantro last about 3 to 5 days.
Should I wash microgreens before storing them?
No. Store them dry and rinse just before eating. Washing first leaves moisture on the leaves, which makes them spoil faster.
Can you freeze microgreens?
Yes, but only for cooking, smoothies or pesto. Freezing makes them limp, so they won't work as a fresh garnish or salad.
Can you revive wilted microgreens?
Sometimes. Soak slightly wilted greens in ice water for 5 to 10 minutes, then dry them well. If they're slimy or smell bad, throw them out.
Written by Michael
A passionate sprouting professional sharing practical tips for growing sprouts and microgreens at home. More about Michael
