Develop an effective microgreens rotation schedule for continuous harvest. Learn planting intervals, variety growth times, and tips for year-round indoor production in any USA climate.
I have grown microgreens indoors for 10 years in my Ohio setup, zone 6. Their rapid cycle allows consistent fresh greens regardless of outdoor conditions. A rotation schedule involves staggering plantings to ensure regular harvests. Microgreens typically require 7-21 days from seeding to harvest, depending on variety. Succession sowing every few days or weekly maintains supply.
These images depict typical indoor microgreens setups with stacked trays under grow lights, ideal for rotation systems.
Common Microgreens Varieties and Days to Harvest
Growth times vary by type. Use this chart to plan rotations.
| Variety | Days to Harvest | Flavor Notes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radish | 7-10 | Spicy, peppery | Fastest; great for quick cycles |
| Mustard | 8-12 | Sharp, pungent | Vigorous growth |
| Broccoli | 10-14 | Mild, earthy | Nutrient-dense |
| Pea Shoots | 10-16 | Sweet, tender | Taller; popular choice |
| Sunflower | 10-16 | Nutty, crunchy | Pre-soak seeds |
| Arugula | 10-14 | Peppery | Strong flavor |
| Beet | 14-21 | Earthy | Slower; vibrant color |
| Basil | 20-30 | Aromatic | Slower; herb variety |
Data compiled from sources including Bootstrap Farmer and Johnny’s Selected Seeds.
These illustrations show microgreens growth stages from germination to harvest readiness.
Designing Your Rotation Schedule
Aim for weekly or biweekly harvests. Calculate based on tray count and desired yield.
Basic Weekly Harvest Example (Mixed Varieties)
Use 4-6 trays. Sow new trays weekly.
- Week 1: Sow Tray 1 (radish/mustard mix, fast 7-10 days).
- Week 2: Sow Tray 2 (broccoli/pea, 10-14 days). Harvest Tray 1 around day 10.
- Week 3: Sow Tray 3 (sunflower/arugula). Harvest Tray 2.
- Week 4: Sow Tray 4 (mixed or slower types). Harvest Tray 3.
Continue cycle. Adjust for slower varieties by starting them earlier.
For uniform mixes, select varieties with similar timelines (e.g., all 10-14 day types) and sow staggered.
Advanced Staggered for Daily/Every Few Days Harvest
With 10+ trays:
Sow 1-2 trays every 3-4 days. Focus on fast varieties for frequent small harvests.
Example: 14 trays of radish (8-day cycle) → sow 2 trays daily for near-continuous supply.
Track with a simple calendar or app.
This diagram represents a workflow for microgreens production, adaptable to rotation planning.
Tips for Successful Rotation
- Use 10×20 trays for standard sizing.
- Maintain blackout period (2-4 days covered) for even germination.
- Provide 12-16 hours light daily with LED grow lights.
- Bottom-water to avoid mold.
- Compost spent mats/soil after single harvest; most varieties do not regrow well.
- Label trays with sow date and variety.
- Start small: 4 trays for weekly family supply.
For variety inspiration:
These show diverse harvested microgreens including broccoli, radish, pea, and sunflower.
Reference detailed charts from Bootstrap Farmer or Johnny’s Selected Seeds.
For indoor growing basics, see my indoor seed starting guide.
Implement a rotation schedule matching your consumption. Consistent sowing yields reliable harvests.
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