Short answer: for growing microgreens in an apartment, use a 10 × 10 inch tray on a bright windowsill or under one small LED light. Grow on a mat or coco coir to avoid mess. Pick fast crops like radish, broccoli and pea shoots. For the smallest kitchens, sprout seeds in a jar on the counter instead.
Best spots for growing microgreens in an apartment
| Spot | Works for | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| South- or west-facing windowsill | 1–2 small trays | Turn trays daily |
| Kitchen counter + LED | 1–2 trays | Use a clip-on or under-cabinet light |
| Bookshelf or closet + LED | Several trays | Add a small fan |
| Top of the fridge | Blackout stage only | Warm and dark for germination |
| Balcony (mild weather) | Fast crops | Avoid hot afternoon sun and wind |
Small-space gear
- 10 × 10 tray set, one with holes, one without
- Grow mats or coco coir for a clean setup
- A spray bottle
- One small LED light and a timer if your window is dim
- A sprouting jar and lid for sprouts
Tips for growing microgreens in an apartment
- Go soil-free. Mats keep dirt off counters. See how to grow microgreens without soil.
- Use a solid tray underneath. It catches every drip.
- Do blackout on a shelf. Trays don't need light for the first 2 to 3 days.
- Grow small and often. One small tray every 4 or 5 days beats one big tray.
- Keep air moving. Small apartments can be humid. Open a window or run a small fan.
Best crops for small spaces
- Radish: fast and flavourful.
- Broccoli: mild and grows well on mats.
- Pea shoots: big yield from a small tray.
- Cress: grows on a plate in 8 to 12 days.
Sprouts: the smallest garden
If you have no window space at all, sprout seeds. A jar on the counter needs no light and gives you fresh food in 2 to 5 days. Start with sprouting in a mason jar using mung beans or alfalfa.
A one-shelf setup
For more trays, a small wire shelf with one light per level holds several trays in a corner. See the DIY vertical microgreens rack.
Growing microgreens in an apartment is one of the easiest ways to eat fresh greens all year. Start with one tray and the easiest microgreens for beginners.
Frequently asked questions
Can you grow microgreens in an apartment without a window?
Yes, with a grow light. A small LED shop light on a timer over one or two trays works on a counter, shelf or in a closet.
What's the best tray size for small spaces?
A 10 × 10 inch tray fits on most windowsills and counters. It holds enough greens for a couple of people for several days.
Do microgreens make a mess indoors?
They can with soil. Use grow mats or coco coir and a solid bottom tray to keep things clean. Sprouts in a jar make almost no mess.
Can I grow microgreens on a balcony?
Yes, in mild weather. Keep the trays out of strong afternoon sun and wind, and bring them in if it gets cold or very hot.
Written by Michael
A passionate sprouting professional sharing practical tips for growing sprouts and microgreens at home. More about Michael
