How to Grow Microgreens on a Windowsill
Priya Hollis · Oct 1, 2026 · 5 min read
Quick answer
Fast, nutritious, and ready in one to three weeks — microgreens are an easy year-round crop.
Microgreens are young seedlings harvested just after their first leaves open. They are packed with flavour and can be grown in a small tray indoors.
They are one of the quickest ways to grow something to eat, even in winter.
1 Good crops to try
- ✓Pea shoots
- ✓Radish
- ✓Mustard and cress
- ✓Sunflower
- ✓Broccoli
- ✓Basil and coriander (slower)
2 How to grow them
Fill a shallow tray with a few centimetres of seed compost. Scatter seeds thickly and evenly, press them down, and mist with water. Cover for a few days to help germination, then move to a bright windowsill.
3 Harvesting
Cut with scissors just above the compost when the first leaves have opened, usually after 7–21 days. Most will not regrow, so sow a new tray every week for a steady supply.
4 Avoiding problems
Use clean trays and fresh compost each time, water from below if possible, and ensure good airflow to prevent mould. Buy seeds sold for sprouting or microgreens.
This is general gardening information. Results depend on your climate, soil, and conditions. Follow label directions for any fertiliser or treatment, and check whether plants are toxic to pets or children before bringing them home.