Don’t pack up your garden just yet — fall is the perfect time to grow microgreens. Whether you’re short on space, sunlight, or time, microgreens offer a fast, nutritious, and rewarding way to keep growing even as temperatures drop. You can grow them on a windowsill, in containers, or even under lights indoors — no greenhouse required.
In this guide, you’ll discover which microgreens are best for fall, why they’re ideal for this season, and how to start your own harvest in as little as 7 days.
Why Grow Microgreens in Fall?
Fall brings shorter days and cooler temperatures — conditions that slow the growth of most garden crops. But microgreens thrive indoors, where they’re protected from frost and can grow with minimal setup.
Benefits of growing microgreens in fall:
- Fast harvests (7–21 days)
- Minimal space needed
- High in nutrients
- No outdoor space required
- Perfect for kitchen windows, counters, or shelves
They’re ideal for beginners, busy gardeners, or anyone who wants fresh greens throughout autumn.
Best Microgreens to Start in Fall
These microgreens are cool-tolerant, fast-growing, and flavorful, making them perfect for indoor fall planting.
🌱 Radish Microgreens
Flavor: Spicy, peppery — like mature radishes
Days to harvest: 5–8
Why they’re great: Germinate fast and grow in almost any light
🌱 Broccoli Microgreens
Flavor: Mild and slightly earthy
Days to harvest: 7–10
Why they’re great: High in sulforaphane, an antioxidant known for health benefits
🌱 Pea Shoots
Flavor: Sweet, crunchy, and slightly grassy
Days to harvest: 10–14
Why they’re great: Grow tall and yield generous harvests in cooler rooms
🌱 Mustard Microgreens
Flavor: Bold and spicy, like horseradish
Days to harvest: 6–10
Why they’re great: Excellent for fall sandwiches and salads
🌱 Kale Microgreens
Flavor: Mild and earthy
Days to harvest: 7–12
Why they’re great: High in vitamins A, C, and K — and love cool temperatures
🌱 Cabbage Microgreens
Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet
Days to harvest: 6–9
Why they’re great: Easy to grow, even on a kitchen counter
🌱 Beet Microgreens
Flavor: Earthy, slightly sweet
Days to harvest: 10–14
Why they’re great: Beautiful red stems, perfect for fall-themed meals
🌱 Turnip Microgreens
Flavor: Crisp, tangy
Days to harvest: 6–10
Why they’re great: Cold-tolerant and quick to sprout
How to Grow Microgreens Indoors in Fall
You don’t need anything fancy — just a tray, seeds, and a bit of light.
✅ What You’ll Need
- Shallow container or tray (with or without drainage holes)
- Sterile potting mix or seed-starting mix
- Fall microgreen seeds (non-treated, non-GMO)
- Spray bottle for watering
- A sunny windowsill or small grow light
✅ Step-by-Step Instructions
- Fill the tray with 1–2 inches of moistened soil
- Evenly scatter seeds over the surface — don’t bury them
- Lightly press seeds into the soil using a flat object or your hand
- Mist generously with water
- Cover the tray with a lid, cardboard, or plastic wrap for 2–3 days (to create a dark, humid environment)
- Remove cover once seeds sprout — place in a bright window or under a grow light
- Mist twice daily to keep soil moist (not soggy)
- Harvest with scissors once they’re 2–3 inches tall and have developed their first true leaves
How to Maximize Growth in Cooler Fall Conditions
- Use east or south-facing windows for natural light
- Supplement with grow lights if light is limited (4–6 hours minimum)
- Keep room temperature between 60–70°F (15–21°C) for most varieties
- Avoid overwatering, especially in cooler rooms — soggy soil leads to mold
Harvesting and Using Microgreens
Harvest when your greens are:
- 2–3 inches tall
- Have cotyledons (first leaves) and early true leaves
- Typically ready 7–14 days after planting
Use them in:
- Sandwiches
- Grain bowls
- Soups
- Smoothies
- Egg dishes
- Tacos
- Salads and wraps
Always cut with clean scissors and rinse gently before eating.
Troubleshooting Common Fall Microgreen Issues
Problem: Mold or white fuzz on soil
Fix: Improve air circulation, use clean trays, and water less
Problem: Leggy or pale shoots
Fix: Not enough light — move to a brighter window or use grow lights
Problem: Slow growth
Fix: Check temperature (should be above 60°F) and avoid cold drafts
Problem: Uneven germination
Fix: Pre-soak larger seeds (like peas, beets) for 4–8 hours before sowing
FAQs
Can I grow microgreens on a windowsill in fall?
Absolutely. Use a bright, east- or south-facing window. Just rotate trays daily for even growth.
Do I need heat mats or a greenhouse?
Not for most fall microgreens. Normal room temps are fine. A heat mat may speed germination in colder homes.
Can I reuse microgreen soil?
It’s not recommended. Reuse can invite mold or disease. Compost the old soil and start fresh each batch.
How often should I plant microgreens in fall?
Every 7–10 days for a continuous harvest. Stagger your trays for rotation.
Are microgreens as nutritious as mature plants?
Yes — and often more so. They’re packed with concentrated nutrients, enzymes, and antioxidants.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need warm weather or a big garden to enjoy fresh, flavorful greens in fall. Microgreens are quick, compact, and perfect for windowsill growing all season long. With just a few trays, some seeds, and a little care, you can harvest fresh food in a matter of days — right when most gardens are shutting down.
Start your fall microgreen garden today, and bring some green into your home — no matter the weather outside.