The Performance of Growing-Media-Shaped Microgreens: The Growth, Yield, and Nutrient Profiles of Broccoli, Red Beet, and Black Radish

Abstract

Sprouts, microgreens, and baby leaves are plant-based functional foods that have recently gained popularity for use in human diets as novel foods due to their high nutraceutical value. Microgreens, harvested shortly after germination with one true leaf, include vitamins and minerals with potential health benefits. Achieving high yields, robust growth, and maximum nutrient accumulation requires optimal cultivation, especially when selecting the appropriate growing medium. This study assessed the effectiveness of six different growing media for the cultivation of microgreens, specifically black radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. niger), broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica), and red beet (Beta vulgaris L.). The growing media tested included vermiculite, perlite, a peat-based medium, filter paper, cotton textile, and agril. The results revealed that vermiculite and the peat-based medium led to the highest yields. The phenolic content ranged from 110.77 mg GA·100 g−1 FW in red beet to 169.96 mg GA·100 g−1 FW in broccoli. The flavonoid content varied between 17.99 mg RU·100 g−1 FW in black radish and 120.36 mg RU·100 g−1 FW in red beet. Agril and filter paper media yielded the highest SPAD–chlorophyll values (47.34 and 44.36, respectively). The protein content peaked at 3.03 g·100 g−1 FW in black radish grown on filter paper, while the vitamin C content reached a maximum of 29.75 mg·100 g−1 FW in black radish grown in agril. The findings suggest that while the optimal conditions vary by species, the choice of growing medium plays a crucial role in determining microgreens’ quality and nutrient content.

Keywords

• total phenols
• total flavonoids
• vitamin C
• minerals
• <i>Raphanus sativus</i> L. var. <i>niger</i>
• <i>Brassica oleracea</i> var. <i>italica</i>