How to Grow Broccoli Microgreens: A Complete Guide

Broccoli microgreens are among the most nutritious foods on the planet. They contain up to 100 times more sulforaphane than mature broccoli — a compound linked to cancer prevention, heart health, and anti-inflammatory benefits. And the best part? They're incredibly easy to grow at home.

Why Broccoli Microgreens Are Special

A 2012 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that broccoli microgreens contain significantly higher concentrations of vitamins and minerals compared to their mature counterparts. Just a small handful provides:

• Sulforaphane: A powerful antioxidant being studied for cancer prevention
• Vitamin C: 89mg per 100g — more than oranges
• Vitamin K: Essential for bone health and blood clotting
• Vitamin A: Important for eye health and immune function
• Fibre and protein: Surprisingly high for a tiny green

What You'll Need

• Broccoli microgreen seeds — about 12g per standard tray
• A shallow growing tray
• Coconut coir or fine potting mix
• A spray bottle
• A dome or cover for blackout

Growing Steps

1. No Soaking Needed

Unlike pea shoots, broccoli seeds are tiny and don't need soaking. This makes them even easier to get started with — just open the packet and sow.

2. Prepare Your Tray

Moisten your growing medium and fill the tray to about 2cm depth. Level it off and press gently to create a smooth, flat surface.

3. Sow Seeds Evenly

Sprinkle seeds evenly over the surface. Because broccoli seeds are small, aim for dense but even coverage — you want them close together but ideally in a single layer.

4. Blackout Period (3–4 Days)

Cover with a dome or inverted tray. No weight is needed for broccoli — they're delicate. Mist once daily by lifting the cover briefly.

5. Move to Light

After 3–4 days, remove the cover. Place in a spot with good indirect light or under a grow light. The pale yellow seedlings will turn vibrant green within a day or two.

6. Daily Care

Mist twice daily. Broccoli microgreens prefer consistent moisture but good airflow. If you notice any fuzzy white growth at the base — don't panic! These are often root hairs, not mould. True mould is grey/green and smells musty.

7. Harvest at 8–12 Days

Harvest when the first true leaves (the second set of leaves) begin to emerge. Cut just above the soil line with clean, sharp scissors. Use immediately for maximum nutrition, or store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Flavour Profile

Broccoli microgreens taste mild and slightly bitter with a fresh, green flavour. They're much milder than you might expect — nothing like the strong taste of mature broccoli. They work beautifully in sandwiches, on top of avocado toast, or mixed into salads.

Storage Tips

Store harvested broccoli microgreens in a sealed container lined with paper towel in the fridge. They'll stay fresh for 5–7 days. For maximum sulforaphane content, eat them raw rather than cooking.

Browse our full range of microgreen seeds and growing kits to get started.