Microgreens Farming

 

How to Start, Grow, and Profit from Microgreens Farming (From Home or Commercially)

Microgreens farming is one of the most rapidly expanding areas in modern agriculture. These tiny greens, harvested shortly after sprouting, are nutrient-rich, quick to grow, and highly profitable. Whether you're a home gardener, aspiring entrepreneur, or looking to scale into a commercial operation, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to begin and succeed in microgreens farming.

What Are Microgreens?

Microgreens are young vegetable greens harvested at the seedling stage—after the first true leaves appear. Unlike sprouts, microgreens are grown in soil or a soil substitute and harvested above the root, typically within 7 to 21 days after germination.

They are commonly used in salads, smoothies, sandwiches, and garnishes for fine dining. Beyond their culinary appeal, microgreens pack a powerful nutritional punch—many contain up to 40 times the nutrients of their mature plant counterparts.

Common varieties include:

• Radish

• Sunflower

• Broccoli

• Pea shoots

• Kale

• Mustard

• Basil

• Amaranth

• Beet greens

How to Start a Microgreens Business from Home

Starting a microgreens business from home requires minimal space, low capital, and basic gardening knowledge. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Select the Right Microgreens

Beginners should choose easy, fast-growing varieties like:

• Radish

• Broccoli

• Sunflower

• Pea shoots

These varieties are resilient and mature quickly, typically in 7 to 14 days.

2. Gather Supplies

Essential tools and materials include:

• Growing trays (shallow trays work best)

• Growing medium (such as soil, coco coir, or hydroponic grow mats)

• Seeds (preferably organic and untreated)

• Spray bottle or fine mist watering can

• Shelving unit (for vertical stacking)

• Grow lights (if natural light is limited)

3. Prepare and Sow

• Fill the trays with the chosen growing medium.

• Moisten the medium without soaking it.

• Evenly scatter seeds across the surface.

• Lightly press the seeds into the medium.

• Cover the tray with another tray or lid to create darkness for germination.

• Leave covered for 2 to 3 days, then uncover and place under light.

4. Maintain and Harvest

• Mist 1 to 2 times per day, keeping the medium moist.

• Provide 12 to 16 hours of light daily.

• Harvest using scissors when the microgreens are 2 to 3 inches tall.

• Rinse and dry before packaging.

5. Packaging and Sales

Package the microgreens in food-safe containers such as clamshells or breathable plastic bags. Label them with the variety name, harvest date, and recommended storage instructions.

Top 10 Most Profitable Microgreens to Grow 

While most microgreens are profitable, some stand out due to their yield, market demand, and growth speed.

1. Sunflower – Harvest in 7–10 days

2. Pea shoots – Harvest in 10–14 days

3. Radish – Harvest in 6–10 days

4. Broccoli – Harvest in 7–12 days

5. Kale – Harvest in 8–14 days

6. Mustard – Harvest in 6–10 days

7. Arugula – Harvest in 10–12 days

8. Amaranth – Harvest in 14–16 days

9. Basil – Harvest in 15–20 days

10. Beet greens – Harvest in 14–20 days

These varieties offer excellent returns, especially when sold directly to consumers, chefs, and health food stores. Some farmers also create mixed packs combining multiple varieties.

Hydroponics vs. Soil: Choosing the Right Medium

There are two primary methods for growing microgreens: soil and hydroponics. Each has its advantages.

Soil-Based Growing

• Affordable and accessible

• Slightly higher yields

• Offers natural flavors

• Greater risk of pests and mess

Hydroponics (using grow mats or coco coir)

• Clean and easy to maintain

• Suitable for vertical farming and indoor setups

• Less prone to soil-borne diseases

• Medium cost with need for proper water management

Both methods can be successful. Hydroponics is ideal for commercial operations due to cleanliness and consistency, while soil is perfect for beginners or smaller-scale growers.

Microgreens and Urban Farming

Urban farming is becoming essential as populations in cities rise and arable land decreases. Microgreens are uniquely suited to urban environments because:

• They require minimal space and equipment

• They use significantly less water than traditional crops

• Their short growth cycle allows for multiple harvests per month

• They can be grown indoors, on balconies, rooftops, and in basements

Because of these qualities, microgreens have become popular in cities around the world. They're also a great option for people who want to grow food sustainably and locally.

Microgreens Farming in Kenya: A Growing Opportunity

Kenya presents a unique opportunity for microgreens farming due to its favorable climate, increasing health awareness, and expanding middle class. Urban areas such as Nairobi and Mombasa have rising demand for fresh, nutritious, and locally grown produce.

Why Microgreens Work Well in Kenya:

• Low startup costs (starting capital can be as low as Ksh 5,000)

• Year-round growing potential

• Rising awareness about healthy eating

• Availability of local and international markets

Kenyan microgreens farmers can sell to:

• Restaurants and hotels

• Local markets and health stores

• Supermarkets and organic food outlets

• Direct home deliveries and online orders

Training programs, agri-business expos, and youth empowerment projects are also beginning to incorporate microgreens into their models, making this a timely opportunity.

Marketing and Selling Microgreens Locally and Online

Growing is just one part of the business; marketing and selling are where the profits come in. Here’s how to approach both.

Local Sales Channels

• High-end restaurants and cafes that use microgreens in their dishes

• Organic stores and health food shops

• Farmer’s markets and weekend pop-up stalls

• Local delivery services for health-conscious families

Online Sales Strategies

• Use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to share updates, pictures, and prices

• Set up an e-commerce store or list your microgreens on platforms like Jumia or Glovo

• Offer subscription boxes to ensure repeat business

• Post educational content to build trust and awareness among followers

Branding, consistency in packaging, and customer education play a vital role in growing your microgreens business.

Scaling for International and Expat Markets

In countries like Germany, the UK, and Canada, microgreens are increasingly popular due to trends in healthy living, plant-based diets, and sustainable agriculture.

To tap into these markets:

• Consider exporting microgreens if regulations allow

• Partner with local grocery stores or international buyers

• Explore urban farming programs in large cities

• Comply with international food safety and organic certification standards

You can also target expats living in Kenya or nearby regions who are familiar with microgreens and their health benefits.

Future Trends in Microgreens Farming

As the world continues to embrace sustainable living and technology-driven agriculture, several trends are emerging in the microgreens industry:

1. Smart Farming – Use of sensors, timers, and automation to manage lighting, humidity, and irrigation.

2. Home Farming Kits – Pre-packed kits for urban consumers to grow microgreens on their windowsills.

3. Nutritional Products – Microgreens powders, juices, and extracts for supplements.

4. Subscription-Based Sales – Weekly deliveries of fresh microgreens to homes and offices.

5. Agri-Education – Use in schools and community programs to teach gardening and nutrition.

Microgreens are also being explored as a viable food source for space missions due to their nutritional density and fast-growing cycle.

Conclusion

Microgreens farming is an accessible and profitable agricultural opportunity suitable for urban and rural settings alike. It requires minimal space, capital, and labor, but delivers high-value crops in a short time frame. Whether you are in Kenya, Germany, or any part of the world, the microgreens business offers a sustainable path to income, health, and food security.

As consumer demand for healthy, local, and organic food grows, the time to start a microgreens farm—at home or commercially—is now. With proper planning, care, and marketing, microgreens can form the foundation of a successful agricultural enterprise.