Microgreens are the edible seedlings of vegetables and herbs, typically harvested right after the first true leaves emerge. They offer concentrated flavor and nutrition, making them popular for home growing and culinary use. Sourcing the right seed is foundational because microgreens are planted in high density and consumed raw. The quality and type of seed directly impact your yield, flavor, and food safety.
Online Sources for Bulk and Specialty Seeds
The most comprehensive selection for microgreen seeds is found through dedicated online retailers and specialty seed companies. These vendors cater specifically to microgreen growers, whether they are home hobbyists or commercial producers. They often provide seeds in bulk quantities, such as one-pound or five-pound bags, which is far more economical than purchasing small garden packets.
These specialized sites are the best source for unusual varieties like purple radish, speckled pea shoots, or unique brassica mixes. They typically offer high-quality seeds tested for microgreen production, ensuring the high germination rates necessary for a full, even tray. Many reputable online sources provide lot-specific germination data and food-safety certifications.
General gardening websites and large e-commerce marketplaces also sell microgreen seeds, offering convenience and a wide array of options. When using large marketplaces, vet the individual seller to ensure they specialize in food-grade seeds. While general seed companies offer trusted quality, their bulk sizing and variety selection may be more limited than dedicated microgreen suppliers.
Finding Seeds at Local Stores and Nurseries
For immediate needs or small-scale testing, local brick-and-mortar stores provide accessible options, though often with a limited selection. General home and garden centers typically carry common varieties like sunflower, pea, and radish, especially during the spring planting season. Since their primary focus is on seeds meant to grow to full maturity, available quantities are usually packaged in smaller, standard seed envelopes.
Local nurseries and independent garden centers may offer slightly better selections, sometimes stocking larger packets or bulk scoops of popular varieties. These establishments often source from regional suppliers and can provide knowledgeable advice specific to your local climate. However, the inventory is rarely as deep or specialized as what is available from a dedicated online microgreen seller.
Other local sources include farm supply stores, which may carry bulk legumes and grains like wheat, peas, or beans suitable for microgreens or sprouts. Ethnic and health food grocery stores, especially those with bulk sections, can also be good places to find untreated seeds like lentils, mustard, or buckwheat. When purchasing from non-specialty sources, always confirm the seeds are untreated.
Choosing High-Quality Microgreen Seeds
Selecting the right seed involves prioritizing specific quality attributes that ensure a safe and successful harvest. The most important factor is the use of untreated seeds, meaning they have not been coated with fungicides, pesticides, or other chemical treatments. Since microgreens are consumed at a young, tender stage, any chemical residue poses a food safety concern.
Microgreen seeds must have a high germination rate, ideally exceeding 90 percent, because they are sown much more densely than garden seeds. A lower germination rate will result in a patchy, uneven tray, which can lead to mold or poor air circulation. Reputable suppliers will provide the tested germination percentage on the packaging or upon request.
It is highly recommended to seek out seeds explicitly labeled as “food-grade,” “sprouting,” or “microgreen-specific” to confirm they meet safety standards. Many growers also prioritize Non-GMO and Organic certifications, which provide an additional layer of assurance regarding the seed’s origin and cultivation practices. Microgreen-specific varieties are bred and tested for optimal performance in high-density tray environments.