Short answer: the biggest microgreens myths are that they're always "40 times more nutritious," that they regrow, that they're the same as sprouts or baby greens, and that you need costly gear. In reality, nutrient levels vary by crop, most don't regrow, they're grown differently from sprouts, and a tray and a window are enough to start.
Microgreens myths at a glance
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| 40 times more nutritious | Higher in some nutrients per gram; varies by crop |
| They regrow after cutting | Most don't; pea shoots sometimes do |
| Same as sprouts | Grown differently and eaten differently |
| Same as baby greens | Harvested earlier, at the seed-leaf stage |
| Need expensive grow lights | A window or a basic LED works |
| Need fertilizer | Most don't; the seed has enough food |
| Any seed works | Avoid nightshades and treated seed |
| They're a garnish only | Many make a full salad base |
| They burn fat | No food does |
Myth 1: Microgreens are 40 times more nutritious
The USDA-led study behind this claim found microgreens generally had higher concentrations of some vitamins and carotenoids than mature leaves, with big differences between crops.1 It didn't find that every microgreen beats every vegetable by 40 times. See microgreens vs mature greens.
Myth 2: Microgreens regrow after cutting
Most microgreens don't regrow. Cutting removes the growing tip. Pea shoots can sometimes give a smaller second cut.
Myth 3: Microgreens and sprouts are the same
Sprouts grow in water and you eat the seed and root in 2 to 5 days. Microgreens grow in soil or on a mat with light and are cut above the roots in 7 to 21 days. Read microgreens vs sprouts.
Myth 4: Microgreens are baby greens
Baby greens are older plants with true leaves. Microgreens are cut at the seed-leaf stage.
Myth 5: You need expensive lights
A bright window works in summer. A simple LED shop light is enough year-round. See the microgreens grow light guide.
Myth 6: Microgreens need fertilizer
Most are harvested before they use up the seed's stored food. Fertilizer is rarely needed for home trays.
Myth 7: Any seed makes good microgreens
Nightshades like tomato, pepper, eggplant and potato shouldn't be eaten as microgreens. Garden seed may be treated. Use seed sold for sprouting or microgreens.
Myth 8: Microgreens are just a garnish
Sunflower and pea shoots are filling enough for a salad base. See microgreens salad ideas.
Myth 9: Microgreens burn fat
No food burns fat. Microgreens are low in calories and can make healthy meals tastier. Read microgreens for weight loss.
The truth behind microgreens myths
Microgreens are tasty, easy to grow and nutrient-dense. That's impressive enough without exaggeration. For a beginner-friendly start, try radish or broccoli.
Seeds in this article
Frequently asked questions
Are microgreens really healthier than vegetables?
Per gram, many microgreens are higher in some vitamins than mature leaves. But you eat smaller amounts, and mature vegetables add fiber and minerals. Both belong in a healthy diet.
Do microgreens grow back after you cut them?
Most don't. Once cut, the growing tip is gone. Pea shoots can sometimes give a smaller second cut.
Are microgreens just baby greens?
No. Microgreens are harvested at the seed-leaf stage, usually 7 to 21 days. Baby greens are older, with true leaves, often harvested at 3 to 5 weeks.
Can you grow microgreens from any seed?
No. Avoid nightshades like tomato, pepper, eggplant and potato. Use seed sold for sprouting or microgreens, not treated garden seed.
Written by Michael
A passionate sprouting professional sharing practical tips for growing sprouts and microgreens at home. More about Michael
Sources
- Xiao Z, Lester GE, Luo Y, Wang Q. Assessment of vitamin and carotenoid concentrations of emerging food products: edible microgreens. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012. Link
