Sprouting Seeds

Sprouts are grown in water, without soil, and are typically harvested within days, root, stem, and all. Microgreens are grown in a growing medium like soil, take a bit longer to mature, and are harvested by cutting the stem above the soil line, leaving the roots behind. Sprouts tend to have a milder, crunchier texture since you're eating the whole young plant, while microgreens are usually more concentrated in flavor since they've had more time to develop true leaves.

Not really. A wide-mouth jar with a mesh or cheesecloth lid is the most common setup, though dedicated sprouting trays or lids are available if you plan to sprout regularly. The basic process is rinsing the seeds a couple of times a day and draining well between rinses, which doesn't require grow lights, soil, or outdoor space of any kind.

Most sprouting seeds are ready within three to seven days, depending on the variety. Smaller seeds like alfalfa and clover tend to sprout the fastest, while larger seeds like mung beans can take a day or two longer. Because the cycle is so short, many people start a new jar every few days to keep a continuous supply going.

Sprouts are grown in warm, moist conditions that can also favor bacterial growth if seeds or equipment aren't kept clean, which is why food safety guidance around sprouts is often more cautious than for other produce. Rinsing thoroughly, using clean jars, and refrigerating sprouts promptly after they're ready all reduce that risk significantly. Sourcing seed specifically intended for sprouting, rather than seed meant for planting in soil, also matters, since sprouting seed is typically tested and handled with that end use in mind.

Grocery store sprouting kits are usually limited to one or two varieties, while this collection gives you access to a wider range, including specialty mixes like the spicy and spring salad blends. These seeds also come from High Mowing, a well-established organic supplier, so quality is consistent from batch to batch. Seedtime members get an additional 20% off every order, which adds up quickly given how often sprouts get restarted compared to a typical garden crop.