Growing Microgreens Starter Guide

Growing Black Oil Sunflower ProGrade Microgreen Seeds

Start by soaking black oil sunflower seeds for 4-8 hours before planting. Spread 2-3 oz of soaked seeds evenly across a 10-inch by 20-inch tray filled with about an inch of potting mix, or place them on a hydroponic grow pad - these seeds perform well on either medium. Press the seeds gently into contact with the medium, then place a second tray on top to apply light pressure during germination. Keep in a dark location for 3-4 days, misting if needed, until sprouts are well established and beginning to push against the top tray.

Once sprouts reach about an inch tall, move the tray to bright indirect light or under a grow light. Bottom watering is recommended from this point forward to keep the canopy dry and discourage mold. Harvest when the cotyledon leaves are fully open and deep green, typically 8-12 days from planting. Cut just above the growing medium with clean scissors and refrigerate in a sealed container. Fresh sunflower microgreens keep well for 5-7 days when stored dry.

Benefits of Black Oil Sunflower Microgreens

Sunflower microgreens are a nutritious addition to any diet. They are a good source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and dietary fiber. Sunflower microgreens also provide vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, along with B vitamins, zinc, and magnesium that support energy metabolism and immune function. Their mild, crowd-pleasing flavor makes them one of the easiest microgreens to incorporate into everyday meals.

Culinary Tips

Black oil sunflower microgreens shine as a fresh topping or mix-in - use them raw to preserve their crisp texture and delicate flavor. Add a generous handful to salads, grain bowls, and Buddha bowls, or pile them onto sandwiches, wraps, and burgers in place of sprouts. They make an elegant garnish for soups and avocado toast, and their mild nutty flavor pairs especially well with hummus, tahini dressings, and citrus vinaigrettes. Avoid cooking them, as heat quickly wilts the tender cotyledon leaves.

Tips From Our Gardeners

If your sunflower seeds are having trouble shedding their hulls after the cotyledons open, try misting the canopy lightly in the morning and giving the tray a few extra hours of darkness under a weighted cover. A little added humidity and gentle pressure usually does the trick - and once those green leaves pop free, the flavor payoff is well worth the patience.

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Other Microgreen Resources:

Microgreen How to Videos

Microgreen FAQ

Black Oil Sunflower ProGrade Microgreen Seeds Per Package:

• 5 lb - Approximately 40,000 Seeds
• 25 lb - Approximately 200,000 Seeds