Short answer: soak 1 tablespoon of collard seed for 2 to 3 hours, then rinse and drain it twice a day in a jar. Harvest sprouts in 4 to 5 days. For microgreens, sow 15 to 20 g on a 10 × 20 inch tray, keep it dark for 2 to 3 days, then give light and cut at 8 to 10 days.
What are collard sprouts?
Collard (Brassica oleracea var. viridis) is a leafy green in the same species as kale, broccoli and cabbage. As sprouts and microgreens, it has smooth green leaves and a mild cabbage flavour. Sprouting.com gives collard 4 to 5 days as sprouts and 8 to 10 as microgreens.1
How to grow collard sprouts
- Day0
Soak
Soak 1 tablespoon of seed for 2 to 3 hours in cool water.
- Day0–4
Rinse and drain
Drain into a jar with a mesh lid. Rinse and drain twice a day.
- Day4
Light
Give a few hours of indirect light so the leaves turn green.
- Day4–5
Harvest
Rinse, drain, dry and refrigerate.
Collard microgreens
Sow 15 to 20 g on a 10 × 20 inch tray of moist potting mix. Cover for 2 to 3 days, then uncover and give bright light. Water from below and cut at 8 to 10 days. The method is the same as broccoli microgreens and kale microgreens.
Problems and fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Fuzzy white roots | Normal root hairs | Rinse or mist; they flatten |
| Gray fuzz in patches | Mold | Discard, clean gear, use less seed |
| Pale microgreens | Low light | Brighter light after uncovering |
Tips for growing collard sprouts
- Keep the soak short. 2 to 3 hours is enough.
- Use 1 tablespoon per quart jar.
- Roll the jar after rinsing so sprouts spread along the glass.
- Give a little light on the last day to green the leaves.
Storing
Dry well, then refrigerate in a lined container for 5 to 7 days.
How to eat collard sprouts
- In salads and wraps
- In smoothies, where their mild flavour hides well
- In a mild microgreen mix with kale and broccoli
- On eggs and grain bowls
Safety
The FDA says higher-risk groups should not eat raw or lightly cooked sprouts, and Health Canada advises everyone to cook them.23 Microgreens are a lower-risk raw choice.
Collard FAQ
How long do collard sprouts take to grow?
About 4 to 5 days in a jar after a 2 to 3 hour soak. As microgreens, they're ready in 8 to 10 days.
What do collard microgreens taste like?
Mild and slightly sweet, like young cabbage, without the toughness of mature collard greens.
Are collards the same as kale?
They're closely related. Both are varieties of Brassica oleracea, the same species as broccoli and cabbage, and they grow the same way as sprouts and microgreens.
Can I mix collard with other brassica sprouts?
Yes. Collard, kale and broccoli sprout at a similar pace, so they work well together in one jar.
Written by Michael
A passionate sprouting professional sharing practical tips for growing sprouts and microgreens at home. More about Michael
