Long before the radishes, kale and lettuce I planted in April started taking off, I was already harvesting the Micro Greens I planted at the same time.

The weather in early spring was unsettled, which is a nice way of saying that it snowed once a week for a month. I had planted the seeds for some cool season crops on a warm day, but then the snow just wouldn’t stop.

There would be a few warm days in between snowfalls that would encourage the seeds to start germinating. Then the snow would fall and cover the patio container garden in a thick blanket of the white stuff.

I’d take a peek into the containers on those warm days and was surprised to see the Micro Greens were the first sprouts in the garden. Between the time the snow finally stopped and the rain started, I was able to clip nice bunches of Micro Greens to bring into the kitchen. 

The packet of seeds I sprinkled in the container would’ve been ready to start enjoying in less than a month, if there hadn’t been any interruption to their growing cycle.

“Micro Greens” describes varieties of greens that are harvested when they’re only 1 or 2 inches tall. Unlike cut-and-come-again lettuce, Micro Greens are good for only one harvest.

This batch of spicy Micro Greens came from Botanical Interests Seed Company and included Sawtooth Mustard, Peppergrass Cress, Cabbage Red Acre, Mustard Red Giant, and Radish China Rose. Of course, there are many other individual varieties and combinations to plant.

Because these greens grow so quickly on their own, they only need sun and water; no fertilizer required. I plan on planting crops in succession through the season by moving the container to a semi-shaded spot in summer.

To plant, sprinkle a thin layer of seeds over the top layer of soil in a large container, gently tap them into place and cover with another thin layer of soil. Water in (gently so you don’t displace seeds) and made sure to keep them moist. 

When the plants have at least two true leaves, use scissors to clip the stems at the soil line. Rinse gently in a colander and dry between paper towels.

These fresh greens make an interesting addition to salads and a nice alternative to lettuce, herbs or sprouts in sandwiches.

Fine Gardening Recommended Products

Ho-Mi Digger - Korean Triangle Blade

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Versatile Tool: The Easy Digger Korean Triangle Blade Ho Mi Ho-mi is a versatile gardening tool designed for leveling and digging in home and garden settings. Efficient Design: Its unique triangular blade shape allows for easy soil penetration and efficient leveling of garden beds or landscaping areas. Durable Construction: Crafted with sturdy materials, this tool ensures long-lasting performance and reliability. Ergonomic Handle: The comfortable handle provides a secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. Compact Size: Its compact design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and store when not in use.

Buy at Amazon

Ashman Garden Cultivator (1Pack)

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

Solid Build—The Ashman Garden Cultivator/Tiller is strong in construction so that it can withstand heavy work in the garden. The blade and the shaft are coupled well for deep digging and uprooting the soil from the depths. It serves the purpose of cultivation very well. Create a blooming crop and watch it blossom and reap the benefits. Sharpened Fine piercing Blade—The blades are razor sharp and are made to pierce into any kind of soil and to serve digging, loosening soil, and weeding. The blades are rust-proof and have chip-resistant coating enhancing durability. Use it to control weeds, bury crop residue in the soil, and for preparing a proper seed bed. High-Quality Design—The thoughtful design incorporated to shape the blades in L shape helps dig deep into the soil and rip it from beneath for cultivation. This helps a lot when weeding. Dig well and plant well. The handle is made to fit in the hand well and can be held tightly to apply push and pull forces effectively. Practical Utility—The garden cultivator is made with “practical utility” as the core of its purpose. It serves all the necessary purposes when gardening. Helps mix soil, which will loosen it up, providing more nutrients for the crops.

Buy at Amazon

A.M. Leonard Deluxe Soil Knife & Leather Sheath Combo

Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

MULTITASKING DUAL EDGES: a deep serrated edge and a tapered slicing edge ideal for tough or delicate cuts. DURABLE 6-inch stainless steel blade withstands 300 lbs of pressure. TWINE CUTTING NOTCH, DEPTH GAUGE MARKINGS & spear point - no need to switch tools when using this garden knife. LEATHER SHEATH: heavy duty, protective, clip on sheath to keep your knife convenient and secure. LIFETIME WARRANTY.

Buy at Amazon