Why grow microgreens at home? A little miracle on your plate and windowsill

This translation captures the enthusiastic, educational, and sustainable spirit of the original text. It positions microgreens not just as food, but as a lifestyle choice that aligns with your brand’s values.

Microgreens: Small Leaves, Big Power

You might have spotted tiny green leaves on your plate at a restaurant and thought, "This is just for decoration." In reality, these are microgreens - young vegetable shoots harvested just 7–14 days after germination. And while they may be small, their contribution to both health and flavor is immense.

At Catermat, we love them so much that we grow our own. We want to inspire others by showing that home growing isn't rocket science. It’s a simple, rewarding habit. Growing your own makes perfect sense: when you buy them at the store, you often can't use them all before they spoil. Growing them at home means zero waste and a zero-carbon footprint.

What Exactly Are Microgreens?

Microgreens are young versions of vegetables and herbs harvested at an early stage typically when they have just 2 to 4 leaves. What they lack in size, they more than make up for in concentrated nutrients and intense flavor.

Research shows that microgreens can contain 4 to 40 times more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than their mature counterparts. For example, micro-broccoli is incredibly rich in sulforaphane, a compound linked to immune support and detoxification.

Health Benefits

• Vitamin Bomb: High levels of Vitamins A, C, E, and K support immunity, vision, and skin health.
• Minerals & Antioxidants: Iron, magnesium, and zinc strengthen the body and protect cells from oxidative stress.
• Better Digestion: The fiber in these young leaves benefits the gut and helps stabilize blood sugar.
• Disease Prevention: Radish or broccoli microgreens are linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Boosted Mood: Balanced blood sugar and a steady supply of antioxidants contribute to overall mental well-being.

Why Grow Them at Home?

• Simplicity: All you need are a few seeds, a shallow tray with substrate, and a bit of light. You’ll be harvesting in a week.
• Accessibility: No need to run to the store. Fresh greens are right there on your windowsill.
• Eco-Friendly: Zero packaging, zero transport. This is sustainability in practice.
• The Joy of the Harvest: Even a tiny "crop" brings a sense of pride and satisfaction.
• Flavor Variety: Try different types for different vibes:
  • Pea shoots = Sweetness
  • Radish = Peppery kick
  • Coriander (Cilantro) = Exotic flair
  • Sunflower = Nutty crunch

Microgreens at Catermat: The BOTANY Innovation

We believe freshness is the foundation of great food. By growing our own microgreens, we have absolute control over quality from seed to plate.

To share this passion, we developed the BOTANY grower. It allows you to enjoy fresh herbs anytime, right at home, with no unnecessary waste. The growing board is a unique Czech invention developed by experts at the Technical University of Liberec. The entire production process happens exclusively in the Czech Republic, supporting local research and ensuring top-tier quality. Even the mounting cups are 3D-printed locally using materials sourced strictly from the EU.

How to Get Started

1. Pick your seeds: Watercress, peas, broccoli, radish, or sunflower.
2. Find a container: A shallow bowl, a pot, or a sprouting mat will do.
3. Add light and water: That’s literally all they need.
4. Harvest in 7–10 days: Grab a pair of scissors and enjoy your "home-grown" yield.
   • Tip: Start with watercress. It grows incredibly fast, and the quick success will keep you motivated!

Microgreens by the Numbers

• 40x more nutrients than mature plants in some varieties.
• 7 days – the average time to your first harvest.
• 90% less water used compared to growing conventional vegetables.
• 0 km transport – when they grow in your kitchen, the carbon footprint is non-existent.

Microgreens are small to the eye but huge for your health. Add them to a sandwich, salad, or soup, and you’ll notice the difference immediately.

Ready to start growing with us?