Microgreens are edible seedlings harvested shortly after their first leaves, known as cotyledons, have developed. They are celebrated for their concentrated flavors and dense nutritional content, often containing higher levels of vitamins and minerals than their mature counterparts. The appeal of microgreens lies in their quick growth cycle, typically ready for harvest within one to three weeks, offering a rapid source of fresh produce. A frequent question among growers seeking to maximize their yield is whether a second harvest is possible after the initial cut.
The Definitive Answer: Is Regrowth Possible?
The possibility of a second harvest hinges on plant biology and the method of the initial cut. Microgreens are generally grown for a single, highly efficient harvest because their early growth is fueled by energy stored within the seed. By the time they are harvested, much of that initial energy reserve has been depleted.
Regrowth can occur only if the plant’s main growth point, called the apical meristem, remains intact. This specialized tissue, located at the tip of the shoot, is responsible for cell division and upward extension. If the meristem is removed, the plant cannot initiate new growth, essentially ending its life cycle. Successful regrowth relies on leaving enough stem tissue and cotyledon leaves to retain photosynthetic capacity and the ability to sprout from lateral nodes.
Essential Regrowth Technique
Achieving a successful second harvest requires a precise cutting technique. The most significant action is ensuring the cut is made well above the cotyledon leaves, leaving a short stem stub intact. This high cut protects the apical meristem, which is typically situated just above these first leaves, allowing the plant to recover and produce new shoots.
Using clean, sharp tools, such as surgical scissors or a razor, promotes a swift and clean cut, minimizing damage to the remaining plant tissue. A ragged cut can introduce pathogens and stress the plant, hindering its recovery. Immediately after harvest, the tray should be gently misted for surface hydration, avoiding overwatering the substrate.
Optimal Varieties for a Second Harvest
The success of regrowth varies significantly depending on the plant variety chosen. Larger-seeded varieties that contain greater initial energy reserves tend to have the highest probability of producing a second flush. Peas and wheatgrass are the most reliable candidates for regrowth, often capable of producing a second harvest if the cut is performed correctly. Certain herbs like cilantro, parsley, and some varieties of lettuce also demonstrate an acceptable capacity for regeneration.
Conversely, smaller-seeded plants and those in the brassica family rarely regrow effectively. Varieties like broccoli, radish, cabbage, and sunflower microgreens are generally considered single-cut crops. These plants exhaust their seed energy quickly, leaving insufficient resources to fuel a meaningful second growth cycle, even if the meristem remains undamaged.
Maintaining Quality for the Second Cut
After the first harvest, the remaining root system and substrate require specific care. Since the plant has consumed most of the stored seed energy, the growing medium is often depleted of nutrients. A slight replenishment with a diluted liquid nutrient solution can help fuel the development of new growth, which is now reliant on external resources rather than the seed.
Managing moisture and airflow becomes important following the initial cut. The dense, cut stems create a humid environment at the substrate level, increasing the risk of mold or fungal development. Adequate air circulation, often facilitated by a small fan, and watering from the bottom only when the medium feels dry are practical steps to mitigate this risk. Growers must also adjust their expectations: the second yield will be significantly smaller, take longer to mature, and may possess a tougher texture and less concentrated flavor compared to the first harvest.