Publish Date: Thursday, November 27 , 2025  |  Time: 9:48 PM ET

Category: Basics / Education / Research

What Exactly Are Microgreens — And Why They Matter

You’ve probably seen them before — those little trays of bright green, purple, and red shoots that look too small to be salad and too fancy to be weeds. Those are microgreens, one of nature’s most powerful (and surprisingly simple) foods.

At Wilshire’s Organics, we grow them right here in Ocala, harvesting them fresh every week. If you’ve ever wondered what microgreens actually are — and why everyone from high-end chefs to health-conscious home cooks loves them — this one’s for you.

What Are Microgreens?

In simple terms, microgreens are young vegetable or herb seedlings, harvested right after their first true leaves appear — older than a sprout and younger than a “baby green.”

When a seed first sprouts, it unfurls its seed leaves, called cotyledons, which provide the plant’s initial energy. Microgreens are cut just as their first true leaves emerge — the plant’s first real leaves, signaling it’s beginning to grow independently.

This in-between stage is where flavor, texture, and nutrition are especially concentrated. They’re the teenagers of the plant world — old enough to have distinct character but still bursting with vitality.

Common Microgreens We Grow

• Sunflower: Crunchy, nutty, and wonderfully substantial.
• Radish: Peppery kick with a vivid purple or red stem.
• Pea: Sweet, tender, and a favorite for kids (and adults!).
• Broccoli: Mild, clean taste with a major nutrition punch.
• Amaranth: Deep magenta color and earthy flavor.
• Mustard: Spicy, wasabi-like kick that’s perfect on sandwiches.

The Science of Small: Why They Matter

A well-known University of Maryland/USDA study (2012) examined microgreen varieties and found that, gram for gram, they can contain significantly higher concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants than mature plants.

Highlights from the Research

• Vitamin E: Red cabbage microgreens measured dramatically higher than mature red cabbage.
• Vitamin C: Multiple varieties showed several-fold increases vs. mature plants.
• Beta-carotene: Cilantro microgreens contained multiple times the beta-carotene of mature cilantro.
• Antioxidants: Notable levels of vitamin K, lutein, and polyphenols support protection against oxidative stress.

Beyond Nutrition

• Add bold flavor to everyday meals.
• Bring vibrant color and freshness to your plate.
• Grow fast and sustainably — usually ready in 7–14 days.
• Local production means fresher greens that skip long-haul shipping.

Microgreens vs. Sprouts vs. Baby Greens

The difference isn’t only age — it’s also how they’re grown, which impacts flavor, usage, and food safety.

Note: Universities and extension services (e.g., University of Minnesota Extension) highlight that sprout production conditions can increase bacterial risk, whereas microgreens are grown with light and airflow and are harvested above the medium, which reduces risk when grown and handled cleanly.

Why They’re So Popular

• Flavor: Tiny but intense — the classic radish “kick” comes from concentrated natural compounds.
• Nutrition: A “functional food” offering benefits beyond basic nutrition.
• Speed & Sustainability: Ready in under two weeks with efficient resource use.
• Local Freshness: Perfect for our Ocala food system — low food miles and year-round production.

How to Choose and Store Microgreens

Look for:

• Bright, vibrant color and crisp texture
• No slime, yellowing, or musty odor
• Cool packaging — or living trays

Storage Tips

Keep refrigerated and dry; place a paper towel in the container to absorb humidity. Microgreens have a relatively high respiration rate after harvest, so cool (32–41 °F) and dry conditions help slow spoilage (as noted by postharvest guidance from university extensions).

Pro Tip: Don’t wash microgreens until right before eating. Added moisture speeds up spoilage.

From Our Greenhouse to Your Table

At Wilshire’s Organics, every tray is harvested to order — no warehouses, no middlemen. Just seeds, soil, sunshine, and care.

If you’re new to microgreens, try our Broccoli or Kale — mild, crisp, and easy to love. Feeling bold? Go for Wasabi or Radish for a spicy kick.

Tasty Ways to Enjoy Microgreens

• On eggs (scrambled, fried, or in omelets)
• In sandwiches and wraps
• As a garnish for soups and tacos
• On pizza or flatbreads after baking
• Blended into smoothies or pestos
• Gently wilted into hot pasta
• Or simply eat them fresh from the box

A Little Faith, a Little Soil, a Lot of Goodness

We believe good things come from the ground — with patience, faith, and honest work. God’s plan of abundance shows up right here in our Ocala greenhouse, one tiny green leaf at a time.

Thanks for growing with us. 🌱

Stay tuned for next week’s post: History of Microgreens: From Gourmet Garnish to Everyday Superfood.

Meta Description: Discover what microgreens are, their powerful nutritional benefits, and how they differ from sprouts in safety and growth. Fresh from Wilshire’s Organics in Ocala, FL, these tiny powerhouses are a sustainable and flavorful addition to your kitchen.

References & Further Reading

• University of Maryland & USDA (2012) — microgreens nutrient profiling.
• University of Florida IFAS Extension — microgreens growth stages & handling.
• University of Minnesota Extension — sprout food safety considerations.
• University postharvest guidance (e.g., Nevada, Reno) — storage temperature & humidity