You want fast, nutritious harvests without outdoor space? Welcome to the world of microgreens—compact, nutrient-dense, and ready to eat in under two weeks. Studies show microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grower craving results you can eat soon, this guide breaks down the 7 Best Microgreens to Grow indoors with quick turnaround and minimal effort.
No fluff, no guesswork—just efficient, high-yield greens you can grow on a windowsill. If you’re tired of waiting months for harvest or wasting money on store-bought greens, these crops deliver fast, flavorful rewards. Ready to turn your countertop into a produce aisle? Let’s get into it.
1. Radish Microgreens – Crisp, Spicy, and Super Speedy
Radish microgreens are one of the fastest types you can grow, making them perfect for impatient beginners. You’ll usually see sprouts within 24 to 48 hours, and they’re often ready to harvest in just 5 to 7 days. That’s about as quick as it gets for indoor greens.
Their bold, peppery bite adds a fresh crunch to tacos, burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. You can even toss a handful onto scrambled eggs or stir them into salads for a spicy twist. Radish microgreens will quickly become a favorite if you like foods with a little heat.
Growing them is as easy as spreading seeds across moist soil or a grow mat and keeping them lightly misted. They don’t need soaking and grow well under regular LED lights. Popular varieties include China Rose, which has pretty pink stems; Daikon, known for its classic sharp flavor; and Rambo Radish, which adds a rich purple color to your tray.
2. Broccoli Microgreens – Nutrient-Dense and Beginner-Friendly
Broccoli microgreens are a great choice if you want something mild in flavor but with health benefits. Their subtle and slightly earthy taste makes them easy to add to almost any meal, from smoothies to sandwiches or sprinkled over pasta. If you’re looking for something your whole family will eat, broccoli is a safe bet.
You can expect to harvest broccoli microgreens in 7 to 10 days. The seeds germinate quickly, usually within 2 days, and grow into a dense carpet of tiny greens with bright green leaves. Unlike some larger microgreens, broccoli doesn’t need presoaking and does well in shallow trays with regular misting and consistent light.
These greens are especially high in sulforaphane, a powerful antioxidant studied for its anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties. They’re also rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Indoor growers find them one of the easiest and most rewarding crops.
3. Sunflower Microgreens – Nutty and Satisfying Crunch
Sunflower microgreens have more texture and flavor than many other types. Their thick stems and large leaves give a hearty crunch, and the flavor is rich and nutty, almost like fresh sunflower seeds with a leafy twist. They’re especially good tossed into grain bowls, wrapped into spring rolls, or just eaten by the handful as a snack.
These microgreens require a little more attention at the start. The large seeds benefit from soaking in water for 8–12 hours before planting. This helps them germinate faster and more evenly. Once they sprout—usually in 2 to 3 days—they grow quickly and are ready to harvest in about 8 to 12 days.
Sunflower shoots grow tall, so give them enough room and airflow to avoid mold. Bottom watering helps prevent soggy stems, which can lead to rot. With the right care, you’ll get strong, crunchy greens that add substance and flavor to any meal.
4. Pea Shoots – Sweet and Crisp with Fast Growth
Pea shoots are great after something sweet, tender, and visually interesting. They produce delicate green tendrils and soft leaves that curl as they grow, adding a fresh look to any dish. Taste-wise, they’re sweet and grassy—like fresh peas from the garden.
Most pea shoots are ready to harvest in about 10 to 12 days, though you can let them go a few days longer if you want taller stems. They’re also more forgiving with light than some other microgreens. While grow lights help speed things up, pea shoots will still do well near a bright window.
Start by soaking the seeds for 8–12 hours before planting. They’re larger than most microgreen seeds, so a deeper tray with more growing medium helps support their root system. Popular varieties include Speckled Pea, Green Pea, and Dwarf Grey Sugar. Once they start growing, you’ll have a tasty, cheerful harvest in no time.
5. Mustard Microgreens – Peppery and Fast Like Radish
Mustard microgreens grow quickly and bring a bold, spicy kick that stands out. If you like the heat of horseradish or wasabi, you’ll love the zesty bite these little greens bring to a sandwich or salad. They’re especially good for adding punch to a mild dish without overpowering it.
You can usually harvest mustard microgreens in just 6 to 8 days. They sprout fast and grow upright, making them easy to cut cleanly with scissors. The leaves are small and tender, with a bright green color and sometimes a hint of purple, depending on the variety.
There’s no need to soak the seeds; they do well in shallow trays or grow mats. While the flavor might be strong for some people, using a small amount goes a long way. Mustard greens also blend well with broccoli or radish to create a spicy mix with a bit more balance.
6. Kohlrabi Microgreens – Mild, Colorful, and Reliable
Kohlrabi microgreens are a favorite for anyone who wants something easy to grow with a splash of color. The purple-stemmed varieties, in particular, stand out with vibrant hues that make salads and sandwiches pop. The flavor is mild, slightly sweet, and similar to cabbage, but without the bitterness you sometimes get from raw brassicas.
Germination takes about 2 days, and the harvest window is between 8 and 10 days. These microgreens grow evenly and don’t need presoaking, making them a dependable option for growers who want steady results without fuss.
Their uniform height and color make them great for mixing with other brassicas like broccoli or cabbage. Just spread the seeds thickly across moist soil or a grow mat, give them good light, and keep the surface moist with a spray bottle. Within a week and a half, you’ll have a tray of eye-catching, mild-tasting greens ready to snip.
7. Cabbage Microgreens – Versatile and Crisp
Cabbage microgreens offer a clean, mild flavor that’s easy to pair with almost anything. They’re similar to broccoli in taste but with a slightly sweeter, gentler bite. Cabbage microgreens are a smart choice if you want a neutral green that works in wraps, stir-fries, sandwiches, or as a topping for soup.
They usually germinate within 2 to 3 days and are ready to harvest in 7 to 10 days. Red varieties like Red Acre add a beautiful splash of purple, while green types keep it simple and crisp. Either way, they grow evenly and don’t need soaking, which makes setup quick and easy.
These microgreens are hardy and reliable for indoor trays. Keep the lighting strong and the soil lightly moist, and you’ll get dense, upright growth that’s easy to harvest. Cabbage is one of the most forgiving options for beginners who want something fast but mild.
Why Microgreens Are Perfect for Indoor Growing
If you’re short on space but want a steady supply of fresh greens, microgreens are one of the easiest ways to grow your food indoors. These tiny versions of common vegetables and herbs are harvested just days after sprouting, so you don’t have to wait long to enjoy the results. You’ll likely be snipping your first harvest in 7 to 14 days.
You don’t need a backyard or a balcony—just a sunny windowsill or a shelf with grow lights. They take up very little room, and maintenance is minimal compared to full-sized plants. A shallow tray, some seeds, and regular misting are enough to get started. Despite their size, they’re packed with nutrients, often containing more vitamins per gram than mature greens. That makes them perfect for apartment kitchens or anyone wanting fresh, homegrown greens without a garden.
What Makes a Microgreen “Fast-Growing”?
When discussing “quick results” with microgreens, we look at how quickly the seeds sprout (germination) and how soon the greens are ready to harvest. The fastest varieties sprout within 1–2 days and can be snipped as early as day 5. Most fast-growing types are harvest-ready by day 10, especially when grown in the right indoor conditions.
Seed vigor plays a big role in speed. Fresh, high-quality seeds tend to germinate faster and more evenly. Temperature also matters—most microgreens thrive around 65–75°F. If it’s too cold, growth slows; too hot, and you might deal with mold. Bright, consistent lighting speeds up leaf development. A south-facing window works in some climates, but a simple LED grow light can make a big difference indoors.
The microgreens listed below were chosen because they grow fast, don’t need complicated care, and give good results even on your first try.
Indoor Growing Tips for Faster Results
Getting microgreens to grow quickly indoors comes down to a few simple but important steps. Light is the most important factor—use LED grow lights for 12 to 16 hours daily to keep your plants strong and upright. Even the sunniest windowsill can struggle in winter, so adding a light boosts speed and quality.
Temperature also plays a big role. For the fastest germination and healthiest growth, keep your growing area between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). If your space is colder, consider using a seedling heat mat to warm things up.
Watering is another spot where timing matters. Instead of watering from the top, fill the bottom of the tray so the roots can soak up moisture without over-wetting the leaves. This helps prevent mold and damping off. Use a shallow tray with drainage holes, and stick to a sterile, lightweight growing medium to avoid compacted soil that slows growth.
FAQs – Quick Answers for Indoor Microgreen Growers
What’s the fastest microgreen to harvest indoors?
Radish microgreens are usually the quickest to grow. You can see sprouts in just 1–2 days and harvest them as early as day 5. Mustard and broccoli also grow quickly and are great choices for speedy results.
Do I need grow lights to grow microgreens inside?
While you can grow them on a sunny windowsill, grow lights give more consistent results, especially in cloudy seasons or darker rooms. LED lights that run 12–16 hours a day help prevent leggy, weak growth and produce better yields.
Can I reuse my soil or grow medium?
It’s not recommended. After a harvest, the roots and leftover stems can lead to mold and bacteria. Compost the used medium and start fresh with each new tray for best results. Reusing materials often causes uneven growth or contamination.
How often should I water indoor microgreens?
Water once or twice a day, depending on the humidity in your home. The top layer should stay lightly moist but not soggy. Bottom watering helps keep stems dry and strong, reducing the risk of rot.
Which microgreens don’t need soaking?
Most small-seeded types, such as broccoli, cabbage, mustard, and radish, don’t need soaking. Larger seeds, like sunflower and peas, benefit from an 8–12 hour soak to speed up germination and improve sprouting rates.
What are the hardest microgreens to grow?
Cilantro, beet, and basil microgreens can be tricky. They germinate slowly and sometimes unevenly. They also need more warmth and attention to moisture. If you’re just starting, stick to faster, easier varieties like radish or broccoli.
