They may look similar, and both start with a tiny seed. But microgreens and sprouts are not quite the same.

Both are popular ways to enjoy fresh, home-grown plants, even when you don't have a garden. But how do they grow, when can you harvest them, and which one is right for you?

Let's take a closer look.

What are sprouts?

Sprouts are seeds that have just started to grow. They are usually harvested only a few days after germination, when the seed has developed a small root and shoot.

Unlike microgreens, sprouts are commonly grown in water or in a moist environment, without soil or another growing medium. They do not need light to begin germinating, although some varieties may benefit from light as they develop.

Popular sprouts include mung beans, lentils and alfalfa.

What makes sprouts special?

• They grow very quickly, often within a few days.
• They need very little space.
• Many varieties can be grown without soil.
• They are often eaten whole, including the seed, root and shoot.

Sprouts are a great example of how much can happen in just a few days.

What are microgreens?

Microgreens are young plants that are allowed to grow a little longer than sprouts. They develop a stem and their first leaves before they are harvested.

They are usually grown on a suitable growing medium, such as soil or a growing mat, and need the right balance of moisture, air and light to develop well.

Popular varieties include radish, broccoli, peas, sunflower and red cabbage.

What makes microgreens special?

• They develop their first leaves before harvest.
• They come in many colours, shapes and flavours.
• They can often be harvested within one to three weeks, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
• They are easy to grow in small spaces, even at home.

Microgreens are often used to add flavour, colour and texture to meals. They can be sprinkled over salads, sandwiches, soups or other dishes.

Microgreens vs. sprouts: the key differences

Although both begin as seeds, there are a few important differences.

Feature	Sprouts	Microgreens
Growing time	Usually a few days	Usually one to three weeks
Growing method	Often in water	Usually on a growing medium
Light	Not always needed during growth	Needed for healthy leaf development
Harvest stage	Shortly after germination	After the first leaves develop
What you eat	Seed, root and shoot	Mainly the stem and leaves
Common uses	Salads, sandwiches and cooked dishes	Toppings, salads and other meals

Growing times vary depending on the plant variety and growing conditions, so these are general guidelines rather than fixed rules.

Which one should you choose?

That depends on what you want to grow!

Choose sprouts if you want quick results

If you enjoy seeing results in just a few days, sprouts could be a good place to start. Many varieties grow quickly and do not require much equipment.

However, sprouts need careful handling. Warm, moist growing conditions can allow harmful bacteria to multiply. Use seeds intended for sprouting, follow food-safety guidance and keep equipment clean. Rinsing alone does not remove all harmful bacteria. Cooking sprouts thoroughly is the safer option, especially for people at higher risk of foodborne illness.

Choose microgreens if you want to watch plants develop

If you enjoy watching a plant grow from a tiny seed into a little green plant, microgreens are a lovely choice. You can follow the changes day by day, see the first leaves appear and harvest the plants when they are ready. They are also a fun way to explore different plant varieties and flavours.

Use seeds suitable for growing edible plants, a clean growing setup and safe water. Keep the growing medium clean and avoid letting the plants sit in standing water.

Can you grow both at home?

Absolutely! You don't need a large garden to get started with either one.

Sprouts can be grown in a suitable sprouting jar or container, while microgreens can grow in a small tray near a suitable light source. Both offer a simple way to explore the world of growing plants. You can start with one variety, learn what works best and try something new when you're ready.

And if you already enjoy growing plants, why not experiment with both?

From tiny seeds to fresh food

Sprouts and microgreens show that growing something yourself doesn't have to take a lot of time or space. Sprouts offer quick results, while microgreens let you watch young plants develop their first leaves. Both start with a tiny seed, but each has its own growing process and uses.

The best way to discover the difference? Try growing them yourself and see which one you enjoy most.

Sow. Grow. Enjoy. 🌱

Looking for more growing inspiration? Explore our other SeeddeeS articles and discover how easy it can be to start growing at home.