Introduction
Microgreens are young, nutrient-dense plants that are easy to grow and highly profitable. They are used in salads, smoothies, sandwiches, and gourmet dishes, making them popular among restaurants, health-conscious consumers, and local farmers’ markets.
Starting a microgreens business from home is an excellent way to earn extra income with minimal space, low startup costs, and fast-growing crops.
This guide covers everything you need to start your microgreens business, including costs, setup, marketing, sales channels, and regulations.
Why Start a Microgreens Business?
- High Demand – Microgreens are used by chefs, health-conscious consumers, and grocery stores.
- Quick Growth Cycle – Microgreens grow in 7–21 days, allowing multiple harvests per month.
- Low Startup Costs – You can start with as little as $100–$350 USD.
- Space-Efficient – Microgreens can be grown indoors, on racks, or in small spaces.
- High Profit Margins – They sell for $20–$50 per pound (approx. 500g), depending on the variety and location.
Understanding Microgreens
Microgreens are young vegetable greens harvested when they are about 1–3 inches tall. They contain higher nutrient levels than mature vegetables and come in a variety of flavors, from mild and sweet to spicy and peppery.
Best Microgreens to Grow for Profit
If you’re just starting, choose high-yield, fast-growing, and in-demand varieties.
| Microgreen Type | Taste / consistency | Time to Harvest | Best Selling Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflower | Nutty, crunchy | 7–10 days | Restaurants, direct-to-consumer |
| Pea Shoots | Sweet, mild | 8–12 days | Farmers’ markets, meal services |
| Radish | Spicy, peppery | 7–12 days | Gourmet chefs, Asian cuisine |
| Broccoli | Mild, nutritious | 8–14 days | Health-conscious consumers |
| Cilantro | Aromatic, fresh | 18–21 days | Ethnic markets, restaurants |
2. Setting Up Your Microgreens Business
Choosing the Right Location
Microgreens can be grown in small spaces such as:
- A spare room, garage, or basement
- A greenhouse or outdoor covered area
- A kitchen counter with adequate lighting
The ideal environment should have:
- Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
- Humidity: 40–60%
- Airflow: Proper ventilation to prevent mold
Essential Equipment & Supplies
To get started, you’ll need:
- Growing Trays – Standard 10×20 trays with and without drainage holes
- Growing Medium – Coconut coir, soil, or hydroponic mats
- Grow Lights – T5 fluorescent or LED grow lights for faster growth
- Seeds – High-quality organic, non-GMO seeds
- Watering System – Misting spray bottle or irrigation system
- Scissors or Harvesting Knife – For clean cuts and longer shelf life
- Storage Containers – Eco-friendly clamshells or paper bags for packaging
Step-by-Step Growing Process
- Pre-soak seeds (for varieties like sunflowers and peas) for 8–12 hours.
- Fill trays with soil or a hydroponic growing medium.
- Evenly spread seeds across the tray for uniform growth.
- Cover with a humidity dome (for 3 days) to encourage germination.
- Expose to grow lights for 12–16 hours per day.
- Water daily using a misting spray bottle.
- Harvest within 7–21 days, depending on the variety.
3. Cost & Profit Breakdown by Country
The startup cost and potential earnings of a microgreens business vary by region.
| Country | Startup Cost | Selling Price (Per Pound / approx. 500g) | Profit per Tray |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | $100–$350 USD | $20–$50 USD | $20–$100 USD |
| New Zealand | NZD $150–$500 | NZD $13–$27 | NZD $25–$80 |
| UK | £80–£300 | £10–£25 | £15–£60 |
| Australia | AUD $150–$450 | AUD $11–$25 | AUD $20–$90 |
| Canada | CAD $130–$400 | CAD $15–$35 | CAD $20–$80 |
4. Where to Sell Microgreens for Maximum Profit
| Sales Channel | Advantages | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Farmers Markets | Direct-to-consumer sales, premium pricing | Small-scale growers |
| Restaurants & Cafes | Bulk orders, repeat customers | Urban growers |
| Local Grocery Stores | Steady demand, brand recognition | Organic microgreens businesses |
| Online Sales | Low overhead, direct sales | Social media-driven sales |
| Subscription Service | Recurring revenue | Health-conscious customers |
Marketing Strategies
- Create an Instagram & TikTok Page – Post time-lapse videos, recipes, and harvesting clips
- Offer Free Samples to Restaurants – Build strong partnerships
- Join Local Facebook Groups & Farmers’ Markets – Connect with customers
- Brand Your Packaging – Use eco-friendly, labeled packaging
- Build a Simple Website – Sell through Shopify, Wix, or Etsy
See this article here for tips for posting on social media.
5. Logistics & Delivery for Selling Microgreens
A. Packaging Your Microgreens
Use biodegradable clamshell containers, compostable bags, or paper boxes to keep your microgreens fresh.
B. Delivery & Transportation
- Local Deliveries: Use insulated bags to maintain freshness
- Farmers’ Markets: Keep microgreens in a cooler with ice packs
- Restaurants & Stores: Schedule weekly deliveries for consistency
6. Legal Requirements & Health Department Regulations
| Country | Regulations | Permits Required? |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Varies by state; food safety training & labeling required | Yes |
| New Zealand | Food Act 2014 (National Programme Level 1) | Yes, unless direct farm sales |
| UK | Must register with Food Standards Agency (FSA) | Yes |
| Australia | State-specific Food Business License required | Yes |
| Canada | Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) | Yes |
General Compliance Tips
- Label products correctly with weight, allergens, and best-before date
- Check with your local health department for permit requirements
- Use a clean, food-safe environment to prevent contamination
7. Scaling Your Microgreens Business
- Expand Your Product Line – Offer wheatgrass, edible flowers, and sprouts
- Hire Helpers – If demand increases, consider hiring staff for harvesting & packaging
- Wholesale to Grocery Stores – Supply organic microgreens to local retailers
- Open an Online Store – Sell microgreens subscription boxes
Conclusion
Starting a microgreens business is a low-risk, high-reward side hustle. It requires minimal space, low startup costs, and offers high profit margins.
Follow proper growing techniques, establish sales channels, and comply with local food laws to build a successful business.
Ready to start? Buy your first set of trays, check local regulations, and start growing microgreens today!
Leave a Reply