Is there a market for microgreens in South Africa?
With a growing market among chefs and foodies, microgreens in different varieties are going to become more readily available in South Africa. With an abundance of flavour and big health benefits in a tiny package, they seem to be way more than a passing foodie trend.
How much do microgreens sell for in South Africa?
Using a four rack system, many growers are producing an average of 20kgs of microgreens in a 6 square meter growing area per 2-week crop cycle. At R500 per kg, that’s a return that beats just about any other legal crop.
Are micro greens worth it?
Nutritionally, microgreens prove that great things can come in small packages. “Research suggests that younger leaves of plants can have higher levels of certain vitamins and antioxidants than more mature plants,” says Sharon Palmer, R.D.N., author of The Plant-Powered Diet.
How much does micro greens cost?
The average selling price for microgreens is $25 – 40 per pound. As for each 1020 tray, the average yield is between 8 – 12 oz per harvest (7-14 days). That means you will be able to earn at least $12.5 – 18.8 per tray of microgreens.
Is Microgreen farming profitable?
Microgreens are one of the most profitable crops you can grow. They can be grown in a small space and can sell for $50 per pound or more, making them an ideal crop for small farms and urban growers.
What microgreens are in high demand?
Easy microgreens
- Arugula: With a sharp, peppery flavor, it spices up salads.
- Broccoli: Mild and versatile taste that goes well with many dishes.
- Cabbage: There are many cabbage varieties.
- Cress: Rich in vitamin C and K, curly cress tastes like black pepper and is great at spicing up dishes.
Do microgreens regrow after cutting?
While not all types of microgreens regrow after harvesting, many do and actually can be cut several times. You can remove the roots and replant microgreen seeds or even dump the tray and start over again. Microgreens might also be more likely to regrow if they’ve been planted in a larger type of pot like a window box.
Why are microgreens so expensive?
The microgreen growing process is quite labor intensive, what with keeping the greens sufficiently hydrated, nourished, and well-lit. This is why, in the grocery store, you will see microgreens priced higher than full size vegetables.
What microgreens do restaurants want?
Whenever you’re reaching out to chefs to try to get a new client, if they know about microgreens the most common requested microgreens are going to be pea tendrils and Bulls blood beet. After that, it’s probably a mix of microgreens together and that’s probably actually the most common is just our rainbow mix.
How can I legally sell microgreens?
Micro-greens are “covered” by the FSMA Produce Safety Rule. There are exemptions: if you are selling <$25,000 per year of produce, you are exempt. If you are selling up to $500,000 per year directly to “qualified end users,” which includes grocery stores and restaurants, you have a partial exemption.
What is the most profitable microgreen?
1) Radishes. Radish microgreens are super easy to grow and have an awesome yield. Plus they have a very intense spicy flavor and good color that chefs will love. They’re also very high in nutrition.
