Microgreens are tiny, nutrient-packed plants that can make a big difference in your diet. These young shoots, harvested early in their growth, are packed with vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds that benefit your health. At Dawn Farm, right here in Canyon, Texas, we specialize in growing microgreens, and we want to share some exciting findings about these powerhouse plants, particularly those from the Brassicaceae family, like kale, cabbage, and mustard.
Why Light Matters for Microgreens
A recent study highlighted how different light intensities affect microgreens, especially those in the Brassicaceae family. The researchers found that the amount of light can change the size, color, and nutritional value of these tiny plants. Here’s what they discovered:
- High Light Intensity: When microgreens were exposed to high light levels, they had more antioxidants, which are compounds that help fight off diseases. This means that microgreens grown under bright lights are even better for your health.
- Low to Medium Light Intensity: These levels of light helped the plants grow well without using too much energy. They also made the green varieties greener and the purple ones more vibrant. This is good news for farmers who want to save on energy costs while still producing high-quality microgreens.
The Power of Brassicaceae Microgreens
The Brassicaceae family, which includes popular microgreens like broccoli, kale, and mizuna, is known for its health benefits. These microgreens are rich in vitamins and minerals and contain compounds that can reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. No wonder they’ve become a favorite in gourmet kitchens!
At Dawn Farm, we grow several blends of these super greens, including our Basic, Superfood, Asian, and Spicy mixes. We carefully monitor the light conditions to ensure our microgreens are as nutritious and flavorful as possible. Whether you’re a Canyon local or just passing through, our microgreens can add a burst of color, flavor, and health benefits to your meals.
Why You Should Try Microgreens
Microgreens aren’t just healthy—they’re also versatile. They can be used to add a splash of color and a punch of flavor to your salads, sandwiches, and even main dishes. Some chefs describe them as “confetti” for your food, making every dish more exciting.
With the global market for microgreens growing rapidly, now is the perfect time to incorporate these tiny but mighty greens into your diet. Whether you’re looking for a way to boost your health or just want to try something new, microgreens from Dawn Farm are the perfect choice.
Visit us here in Canyon, Texas, to learn more about our microgreens and how they can help you live a healthier life!
Thank you for reading! We are Dawn Farm, a USDA-registered Urban Farm located in Canyon, Texas, owned and operated by Tim and Suzan Triplett. We grow microgreens indoors using sustainable agricultural practices. We offer free deliveries to the Amarillo area. In the summertime, you can usually find us at the Canyon Farmers Market. Our mission is to provide fresh, nutritious, and eco-friendly greens to our community. Follow us for more tips, recipes, and updates on how we bring the best microgreens to your table.
Reference: Flores M, Hernández-Adasme C, Guevara MJ and Escalona VH (2024) Effect of different light intensities on agronomic characteristics and antioxidant compounds of Brassicaceae microgreens in a vertical farm system. Front. Sustain. Food Syst. 8:1349423. doi: 10.3389/fsufs.2024.1349423