Growing Popcorn Microgreens for Snacking & Salads

Popcorn shoots — or microgreens — have a delicate sweet flavor. Grow them on a windowsill for fresh greens year round. Add them to salads, sandwiches, and wraps for a delicious crunch.

Try growing sunflower sprouts, too!

green popcorn shoots microgreens in a plastic tray

Years ago — and I do mean years ago — my friend Jody raved about something she called popcorn shoots. Technically, growing seeds in small amounts of soil like this is growing microgreens, but I digress. Jody just raved and I put them on my list of things to try, and then life happened.

Here’s what prompted me to finally try growing these popcorn sprouts: This post about growing microgreens and my current lack of fresh greens from the garden. And I’m here to tell you that Jody was right. Popcorn shoots are quite tasty! They’re a bit sweet and have a very subtle taste of sweet corn.


 

pretty garden with tomatoes and flowers - cover of book "edible front yard garden"The 5-Gallon Garden

New to gardening? Limited on space? The 5-Gallon Garden gives you the skills you need to grow food in the space you have. Get started with your garden today!


Grow Your Own Organic Popcorn Shoots

Growing microgreens is an easy project, perfect for first time growers. For these, you’ll just need organic popcorn, an upcycled takeout or produce container, and some potting soil.

Popcorn

Choose organic popcorn. Non-organic popcorn may have been treated and could be less likely to sprout. The amount of seed necessary will depend on the size of the container you’re using. For a container like you see here (commonly used for strawberries), you’ll need about a half cup of popcorn. 

Potting soil

Choose a good quality potting soil. (No need for a special seed starting mix.) You’ll need about 2 cups of soil to plant a container as you see here. 

Container

This is where you can get creative. No sense buying special planting trays when you can use an assortment of upcycled containers! Use a small container as I’ve used here, a larger takeout salad container, or even a cut-off milk jug. Just be certain that the container has drainage holes. 

yellow popcorn kernels planted in a plastic tray

Planting the popcorn

To plant the popcorn, fill the container with about 2″ of potting soil. Scatter popcorn over the soil in a somewhat solid layer. 

Cover popcorn seeds with a layer of potting soil about 1″ thick. Soak the soil, allow to drain, and close the plastic lid. This helps to retain moisture until the popcorn shoots sprout.

Place the planting container on a tray to capture moisture and set in a sunny window. In two or three days you’ll see tiny popcorn shoots starting to appear.

Water as needed to keep the soil damp but not overly wet.

In another couple of days, the popcorn sprouts will be 2-3″ tall and ready to harvest. Don’t let them get much taller than that, or they’ll lose their sweetness.

To harvest, simply use scissors to snip them off at the base. And surprise! Those seeds will push out a second harvest in another couple of days.

Use these popcorn shoots as you would any other microgreen: Add to salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Or do like I did and just snack on them plain.

For a continuous harvest of fresh microgreens, plant a new batch every few days. Or try alternating them with some other delicious microgreen options to have fresh greens in rotation all year long.

Storage

If you harvest more than you can use in one sitting, store shoots in the refrigerator in a sealed container. It’s easy to grab them out of the fridge to add to your favorite fresh salad or to top off a dish like grilled chicken or fish.

Related: Harvest Wintertime Flavor with a Windowsill Herb Garden

corn sprouts emerging from soil in a plastic tray

 

Winter greens

You can grow microgreens and sprouts year-round, but they have a special appeal during the winter months when fresh greens from the garden are a bit sparse. Other options for winter greens to consider:

Even when the garden is closed for the season, you can get your greens on!

green popcorn shoots, small and taller

green popcorn shoots microgreens in a plastic tray

Growing Popcorn Microgreens

Yield: Varies
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Active Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Popcorn shoots -- or microgreens -- have a delicate sweet flavor. Grow them on a windowsill for fresh greens year round.

Materials

  • Upcycled container (salad tray or takeout container)
  • Potting soil
  • Popcorn seeds, organic

Instructions

    1. Fill container with about 2″ of potting soil. Make certain that the container has drainable holes to allow excess water to escape. Scatter popcorn over the soil. In this case, don’t worry about overcrowding the seeds – the wee corn sprouts don’t mind being crowded. You want the seeds to be in a pretty solid single layer on top of the soil.
    2. Cover popcorn with a layer of potting soil about 1″ thick. Water thoroughly and close the plastic lid. This helps to retain moisture until the popcorn shoots sprout.
    3. Place in a sunny window, being sure to use a drainage container underneath it to capture moisture. In two or three days you’ll see tiny popcorn shoots starting to appear. Open the lid to give the growing corn sprouts room to grow. 
    4. Water as needed to keep the soil damp but not overly wet.
    5. In another couple of days, the popcorn sprouts will be 2-3″ tall and ready to harvest.
    6. To harvest, simply use scissors to snip them off at the base. And surprise! Those seeds will push out a second harvest in another couple of days.
    7. Use popcorn shoots as you would any other microgreen: Add to salads, sandwiches, and wraps.

Did you make this project?

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Originally published February, 2016; this post has been updated.

 

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About the author: Kris Bordessa is an award-winning National Geographic author and a certified Master Food Preserver. Read more about Kris and how she got started with this site here. If you want to send Kris a quick message, you can get in touch here.

164 comments… add one
  • Pamela Donahue Jul 14, 2021 @ 2:42

    Aloha Kris, I’m trying to wrap my head around the popcorn greens and I’m thinking, I need to buy a bag of popcorn at the store and try to germinate them. Is this what Has to happen to get popcorn greens growing? I read your article about the different kinds and find them interesting, both to grow and eat, and want to do something like this. I’ve got a slightly green thumb and have had some luck in growing things. Right now I’m nursing a carrot top with good roots and have some tomato seeds germinating and want to plant both in some soil, but right now I’m not able to procure any so I’m trying to keep both going till I can. I’ve been wanting to start some herbs inside and see how I do with them. Doing so might just get me cooking better meals, but I’m only one person and frugality is a must because I hate throwing out food. There’s a program here where I live that provides you with a compost bucket for all your scraps with a once a month collection for community gardens around the city. I want to be a part of this and want to help them out. It’s a good program and am happy that DC has something like this. Thanks for your help. Aloha, and have a wonderful day.
    Pamela Donahue

    • Kris Bordessa Jul 16, 2021 @ 16:36

      Yes, start with organic popcorn from the store!

  • Eilene Ballman Dec 5, 2020 @ 15:52

    This is just the right time of year to try this! Fresh, young, tender sweet topping for my salad would be a welcome treat.

  • Jennifer Dec 5, 2020 @ 15:02

    I’ve never tried anything like this, it looks like a fun project for me and my granddaughter.

  • Amy H. Dec 5, 2020 @ 5:00

    I just bought a bag of oats from the local feed store so that I could grow greens for my chickens. Looks like I should grow some greens for myself as well. Great idea!

  • Tracy Dec 5, 2020 @ 3:19

    I’m not much for microgreens–though I have thought about it! Maybe now I should try–love the popcorn idea!

  • Yvonne Dec 4, 2020 @ 17:39

    Sprouting lentils is one of my faves. Also so is radish…the spiciness is amazing on salads and avocados with toast!

  • D K Wolford Dec 4, 2020 @ 14:41

    I’ve never tried any kind of microgreens. I think I’m scared of them because they are usually added to smoothies and taste horrible. I don’t do smoothies but this sounds like something I’d enjoy. I’ll be brave and try some.
    Dee

    PS Shuuuuush, Don’t tell anyone but Santa but, your book is on my Christmas wish list.

  • Corrine Dec 4, 2020 @ 7:10

    This will be a great way to grow nutrients in the cold and dark of winter!

  • Klara Zietlow Dec 4, 2020 @ 6:56

    I grew these a few years back. They were strangely sweet. I didn’t like them but my cat loved them and ate all the little shoots

  • Jane Dec 4, 2020 @ 6:39

    This looks fun! I wonder if the nutritional information is available anywhere.

  • Cynthia Kelly Dec 4, 2020 @ 4:30

    Interesting. I will have to put this on my list of items to try.

  • Susan M. Dec 4, 2020 @ 2:37

    Microgreens are great for the chickens as well, especially during the long cold winters in the northern climates!!

  • Susan M. Dec 4, 2020 @ 2:36

    Microgreens are GREAT for your chickens as well, especially during the long, cold winter months in the northern climates!!

  • T C Creel Dec 4, 2020 @ 1:37

    Thanks
    Hadn’t heard of these.

  • Sharon Dec 3, 2020 @ 20:25

    I have grown micro-sprouts. my favorites are sunflower sprout and radish sprouts. cheap, delicious in salads in an omelet, on a sandwich, & by the handful and filled with nutrtion

  • Sharon C Dec 3, 2020 @ 19:57

    I’ve never heard of corn micro greens, can’t wait to try them!!!

  • Ruth Pendergrast Dec 3, 2020 @ 19:44

    Last time I tried growing microgreens, I sowed much too thinly and didn’t keep the moisture right. It was a big disappointment. I will read your post again and give inspired for another try.

  • C Renee Hoffman Dec 3, 2020 @ 19:40

    Popcorn has always been fun but this takes it to a new level. Definitely going to try the Popcorn Microgreens. Thanks Kris!
    This question is more on the homeless side of life or being a traveling gypsy. Does anyone have ideas how to create a traveling microgreen garden? For people who still need to eat healthy but have to move from place to place every few months? More and more people are losing their homes. The tent cities around Oregon and Washington have grown extensively since COVID hit and people lost jobs and homes. This questions is close to my heart…and life. Thanks!

    • Jen May 20, 2021 @ 10:32

      I’d think a Togo cup that’s clear with a clear lid would work well. A few rocks in the bottom will serve as drainage without the holes and will still fit in a cup holder for riding/traveling or in hand if need be.

  • Candi May Dec 3, 2020 @ 18:43

    Wow!!! Never thought of popcorn for microgreens!!

  • Kim Sullivan Dec 3, 2020 @ 18:24

    Your book is beautiful! Thank you for such a fun way of sharing it with us. I sprout seed for my chickens, and have done some microgreens in the past, but now I am inspired to make them some popcorn microgreens, too! I’m sure they’ll thank you for them!

  • Katy Heffington Dec 3, 2020 @ 18:19

    Fascinating! Would have never thought of popcorn. Have to give it a whirl.

  • Malia Dec 3, 2020 @ 17:58

    I did this with the kids today! One tray for each – they sprinkled the kernels and scooped on top pre-moistened soil with spoons (I didn’t have time for risking a big mess and it worked! Phew!). I hope my popcorn sprouts – added organic popcorn to my shopping list just in case. Seed viability can be an issue especially with how hot it’s been. I lucked out and received corn sprouts once in my CSA box; I had to call them to ask what they were. They were delicious and surprisingly sweet. Thanks for your inspiration, Kris!

  • Teresa de Jel Dec 3, 2020 @ 17:17

    Fantastic idea. I’ll have to try this one.

  • Malgorzata Dec 3, 2020 @ 17:15

    I love sprouting , I usually do it at wintertime.You just remind me to do it . I use different seeds .I like arugula the most , corn is OK too , but not y first choice.

  • JAL Dec 3, 2020 @ 17:14

    What an interesting idea, I don’t get much sunlight in the winter and my windowsills are cold. I wonder if I could get it to work?!

  • Adrienne Dec 3, 2020 @ 16:46

    I never even thought about using popcorn seeds for microgreens! I guess I just always assumed they’d be sterile/wouldn’t grow or something since they were processed and ready to be made into popcorn. (I mean, of course, I realize that it’s not just any popcorn.) 🙂

  • Carol Clevenger Dec 3, 2020 @ 16:41

    Sounds very interesting since I am surrounded by corn in rural Minnesota, not organic though. I have grown broccoli sprouts the most successfully

  • Marie V Wraight Dec 3, 2020 @ 16:28

    hmm never thought of THAT ! next project..

  • Michelle Fitts Dec 3, 2020 @ 16:27

    Wow, I’ve never even considered popcorn as a micro green! Very intriguing.

  • Heather Dec 3, 2020 @ 16:14

    I’ve not used organic popcorn before but have grown spinach and broccoli micro greens.

  • Debi Crawford-Poyner Dec 3, 2020 @ 16:10

    I am excited to start indoor gardening this winter – a new hobby to keep me looking forward with hope and gratitude!

  • Patti P Dec 3, 2020 @ 15:41

    Thank you for these instructions. I love micro greens and want to grow some.

  • Donna R Ashe Dec 3, 2020 @ 15:20

    Thank you for showing how easy this can be. I wanted to try it but I’ve been afraid. Looking forward to trying soon now!
    Donna

  • Beverly Moore Dec 3, 2020 @ 15:08

    I’ve got to give this a try. Nothing like fresh greens on a sandwich.

  • Jenny Leavitt Dec 3, 2020 @ 15:01

    Wow! What a great idea! I’ve grown microgreens on my kitchen window before with mixed results. They’re great for snipping and tossing in scrambled eggs or adding to sandwiches. I’ll definitely be trying this cheaper option soon!

  • Lisa Pizzuto Whittaker Dec 3, 2020 @ 14:55

    I’m so excited to learn more about micro greens! I’ve never heard of them before and I’m SUPER excited to grow popcorn kernels — SO exciting!

    Aaaand, I’ve never heard of a bat house before!! I’m very interested in natural pest control. We got an owl box about 10 years ago and that helps, and the cats, of course, but other ideas like the bat house are intriguing. Can’t wait!!

  • Mary Wazelle Dec 3, 2020 @ 14:54

    I really like this idea! Definitely giving it a try.

  • Marnie Petty Dec 3, 2020 @ 14:38

    Never would have thought to try to sprout popcorn. Will have to try: maybe one with light and one in the dark to see if they are better one way or the other.

  • Myra Bamberger Dec 3, 2020 @ 14:05

    I have had microgreens before, but never considered using popcorn. Thanks for the idea!

  • Cynthia Dec 3, 2020 @ 14:01

    I love growing something fresh during cold Michigan winters! Definitely going to be trying this!

  • Karen H. Dec 3, 2020 @ 13:53

    I’m so looking forward to growing some microgreens as I do enjoy eating them, especially on a sandwich. I’ve never tried growing them but the directions given are sooo easy. 😀 I eat alfalfa sprouts and feel as though I’m eating so healthy and besides, they taste good!

  • Andrea Turner Dec 3, 2020 @ 13:48

    Wow!!! I have never heard of doing this, but I’m super excited to try it!! I was going to start some sprouts this week, so the timing for this post is perfect! Thanks for the great idea!

  • Doris Dec 3, 2020 @ 13:47

    This looks like such a fun thing to grow and eat

  • Diana Estes Dec 3, 2020 @ 13:20

    Well I have never heard of popcorn greens, but what a unique and fun way to entice kids to eat some greens. Definitely will be trying this. Thanks for the tip

  • Karen Dec 3, 2020 @ 13:10

    I am ready to give this a whirl..Never would have imagined this on my own.
    Again, thanks.

  • Marilee McQuarrie Dec 3, 2020 @ 13:01

    I’ve done lots of sprouts but have never tried popcorn. I’m excited to try this. Thank you!

  • Linda Wallette Dec 3, 2020 @ 12:53

    This is interesting. Great ideas.

  • Lisa Dec 3, 2020 @ 12:51

    Wow ! Cant wait to do this with my grands- whom I homeschool!! Thanks for the great idea.

  • Mackenzie Schmidt Dec 3, 2020 @ 12:47

    Your post has given me so many cool ideas! Thank you for sharing these great ideas that are practical. I’m looking forward to growing these microgreens! Thank you Kris!

  • Gillian Vance Dec 3, 2020 @ 12:11

    I go up and down with microgreens. I live in tropical Australia, and during the wet I find it is really hard to grow microgreens as they get mould so easily. I did manage to grow some corn sprouts, but found them a bit “grassy” in flavour. I have read dusting of cinnamon on the surface might keep mould at bay. What are your thoughts on this? I would love to win your book, hope I got this comment in in time.

  • Mary D Dec 3, 2020 @ 12:09

    What a nifty idea! I will definitely need to try that out.

  • Bel Dec 3, 2020 @ 12:04

    Fabulous idea. Adding it to my next sowing.

  • Laura Domsic Dec 3, 2020 @ 11:37

    I’ll have to try this! I’ve never seen popcorn microgreens… just about every other kind.

  • Ann-Marie Dec 3, 2020 @ 11:24

    Hope I am not to late!

  • Barbara Moore Dec 3, 2020 @ 11:21

    All I can say is, WOW! Can’t wait to try.

  • Christine Chin Dec 3, 2020 @ 11:19

    Amazing! I had no idea… but, I sure do love micro greens in my salads!

  • Colleen Ergang Dec 3, 2020 @ 11:13

    I have never grown microgreens, although I am interested in trying it!

  • Shelby Dec 3, 2020 @ 11:11

    I have a Hamama system for microgreens which I love. I’ve never thought of doing popcorn. I will try it. It sounds like a great way to add variety to our microgreen selection.

  • Kerry Dexter Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:52

    Great idea! Has me wondering if First Peoples who grew corn in ancient days grew these too

  • Alice Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:48

    Wow! Easy way to grow some greens. I never thought to try popcorn…I can’t wait to try this. Thank you!

  • Melinda Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:43

    This is amazing! I never knew!

  • Desiree Aquino Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:41

    Thank you for the info. Never tried this before.

  • Lori Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:35

    I’ve grown sprouts before, but not micro greens. I’ll have to give this a try!

  • Kerry Dexter Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:27

    I’d never heard of popcorn microgreens — what an interesting idea. Not much sun around where I live but I may have to figure a way to try this out. Do you suppose our corn growing ancestors grew these too?

  • Melissa Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:11

    This will be challenging, but tasty. I need to get creative to find enough sunlight.

  • Rebecca Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:09

    Thanks for the info on the sprouts. If I grow any, I will also have to buy grow lights. I am also thankful for the info on activities in the Triangle of NC. That was a nice surprise.

  • Cynthia Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:08

    Interesting. Something to consider. Maybe the answer I’ve been looking for to provide winter greens for my chickens.

  • Susan Linares Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:05

    This is something I’m going to try for me & my chickens thanks for this idea!

  • Paulette Mayfield Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:05

    I have never even eaten microgreens much less grown them. I am excited to try this new adventure.

  • Elizabeth Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:03

    Planted micro greens this past summer, enjoyed the taste and convenience of fresh greens any time I wanted them. Will try to grow some indoors this winter.

  • Michelle Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:54

    Micro greens are so easy, but forgotten. They taste great. Would love your book.

  • Janet Evans Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:54

    Awesome information! Thanks for sharing! this will help get me started on a new project!

  • ruth w vidunas Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:47

    still have my sprouting containers from years ago. need to get back to sprouts and microgreens

  • Barb Berns Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:46

    I may have to try this – never used microgreens before.

  • Julie Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:40

    I love any kind of microgreens as they provide for the greatest amount of nutrients.

  • Bonny Broadt Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:36

    Have grown popcorn sprouts..Just close your eyes and you will think you are eating the sweetest corn fresh in the field.. They are great! I like other greens too. Just get some scissors and start clipping for a tasty snack or great salad

  • Wendy West Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:33

    Ive followed you for years and look forward to ea newsletter. Never a remote thought of popcorn micrgreens! Cant wait to try it out! In general I use greens anywhere I might use lettuce. Love not going to the store for soggy old ones!

  • Barbara Byram Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:24

    I’ve grown micro greens such as radish and others but never thought about corn, let alone pop corn! Gonna give it a try.

  • Wendy Leanse Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:23

    I grow micro greens with my students. I have never heard of popcorn micro greens!!!! Can’t wait to try these.

  • Karin Noyes Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:23

    Oooo Such a good idea for winter greens. Have wanted to do this for a while – but this might be the shove I need.

  • Kayla Daniel Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:16

    I’ve never used micro greens but I’m very interested in learning more about how I could incorporate them into our daily life.

  • Wendy Hadley Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:16

    Super interesting info!!! Thanks for sharing

  • Katy Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:12

    How simple and interesting of using popcorn for microgreens as well. This would actually be a good stepping stone for growing greens especially for those who live in apartments or smaller homes.

  • Vonda Clink Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:11

    Ok, admittedly I was taken aback. I said what?! Read again, and this sounds amazing and I’ve got to try the popcorn microgreens. Thanks for posting this idea.

  • Sue D Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:10

    I have grown microgreens before and need to start some now. Thanks for sharing this idea of using popcorn kernels–I never tried this.

  • Rig Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:06

    Never grown microgreens.

  • Ellen Hopkins-Swiger Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:54

    I never thought to eat young corn greens, something to try

  • Janet Clark Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:54

    I have grown radish, alfalfa, and broccoli sprouts but havenʻt tried microgreens yet. I have a whole jar of popcorn, so going to try this!!!!

  • Carla Terry Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:47

    I have never used micrograms.

    • Carla Terry Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:48

      I have never used Microgreens

  • Deborah Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:45

    I never heard of Popcorn microgreens. I think I will give this a try.
    On another note. I was watching the video on making marsh-mellow fluff. When I was a little girl I would take a marsh-mellow and squish and pull a little with my thumbs and pointer fingers. That’s the closest I got to fluff as a young girl. Thanks for the memory.

    I also like the bat stand to deter mosquitos.

  • Sarah S Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:42

    I’ve tried lettuce, red beets, broccoli, and radish Pretty good eating!
    Thanks for the opportunity to enter

  • Patti Brady Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:40

    I’m going to try this! Thanks for this easy to follow tutorial!

  • Keli Updegraff Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:36

    What a great idea! Added to my “must try” list!

  • Sara G Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:36

    Do you just use popcorn seeds that you buy in the grocery store? I would never have thought they’d be viable! I’m going to try this!

  • THERASA SULLIVAN Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:36

    What a clever idea.

  • Sue Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:35

    Just asked my 5 year old grandson to bring some organic popcorn to my house next time he comes. We can plant it together.
    A little off topic but…my daughter but the shell of a GMO pineapple in my compost bin. I took out every piece figuring the GMO would be bad for my soil. Right?

  • Lourdes Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:34

    This is definitely something I will try this winter!

  • Victoria LONG Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:34

    I have been growing micro greens for the last couple of years.

  • Tys Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:34

    I’ve never heard of doing this before! Learn something new everyday!

  • Vanessa M Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:34

    This is a great way to use all my extra corn seeds!
    I had tried microgreens before but the soil always started molding. I think your instructions are just different enough to help me avoid that! I’m so excited to try microgreens again!

  • Sheryl Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:17

    Something new to try!
    I copied and printed the comment from Peter about sprouting the cobs and will add it to my calendar for next year. The grandson will be amazed.

  • Shirley Campbell Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:16

    I love micro greens. I’ve been getting them in my CSA boxes. I’ve never grown them, and I have never heard of popcorn micro greens. They sound fascinating! I will have to try this.

  • KJ Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:12

    Never heard of popcorn micro greens. Amazing. Sounds like the micros are a great way to get greens through the winter. Thanks for sharing!

  • Karen Barr Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:11

    I’ve never even considered popcorn for sprouts! This is amazing, gotta try it today :^)

    Thanks!

  • Melanie T Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:09

    I can’t eat corn, but my chickens and parrot can. I’ll try making this for them! Cheap Christmas specialties for them!

  • Sandy Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:06

    I used to make broccoli sprouts all the time. I can’t remember why we stopped. I’ll try this! Thank you very much

  • Aura Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:02

    I am doing this with my son. We are very excited. We also have short attention spans so this is a perfect project. Looks like it mostly takes care of itself!
    Thanks

  • One of God's Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:00

    Although growing microgreens doesn’t usually catch my interest, this intrigues me. Thank you and thanks for repairing the link.

  • Katherine Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:00

    I love eating microgreens, but have never grown them! Popcorn shoots sound delicious! Great info!

  • Toni Prisk Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:00

    I’ll have to try this. Right now I’m trying to go celery from the base of an old bunch.

  • stephanie Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:00

    I never would have thought about popcorn as a microgreen, great idea for small places like mine since I can’t grow popcorn.

  • TJ Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:00

    I have grown and used micro-greens in the past, and would like to get back to it. I took you book out of the library and I love it. Have a lovely day 🙂

  • Leslie S. Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:00

    Another way to use popcorn if I have leftovers and am tired of popcorn

  • s Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:59

    Thanks for the low cost dyi. I’m going to try it.

  • Cassandra Sullivan Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:59

    I am currently attempting to grow microgreens! I have tasted corn microgreens before and were so amazed at the sweetness they imparted! Excited to try this technique!

  • Alayna Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:58

    Definitely looks like a fun project!

  • Sheena MacDonald Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:58

    I just recently started growing micro greens. I love that they’re so easy and easy to add to many different meals. What I didn’t know is that I can grow popcorn microgreens. This is exciting and I’m going to do it!

  • Lauren Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:55

    Cool! I’ve never heard of that before. That is awesome! Thanks.

  • bob Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:55

    just have to attempt this type this winter….

  • Ken Bates Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:55

    Great idea wondering how fresh does the popcorn have to be?

  • Jenn Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:54

    This is so cool and very interesting… Looking forward to learning more, thanks!

  • Jessica Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:51

    I love this and being able to reuse the salad container is a great alternative to throwing away!

    • Karen Barr Dec 3, 2020 @ 8:12

      That may be one of the best things about this idea, reusing the single-use plastic containers! :^)

  • SUZANNE Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:51

    Hi Kris,
    Thanks so much for this part of your contest. I used to grow micro greens all the time. With our move I’ve lost my ‘grower’ which is a multi tiered round container. I’ll have to find it and get started again. I will say, though, that I never tried popcorn for microgreens. However, I certainly will now.
    I’m an 82 year old fan of your site and can’t tell you how much I appreciate the chance to win one of your cookbooks. Your reviews say it is pretty wonderful.
    Have a great day,
    Suzanne

  • Carol Warnock Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:50

    I have used microgreens on salads but I have never grown them myself!

  • Rose Felton Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:44

    I never thought of using popcorn for Microgreens. I used to use them when I worked in a fine dining restaurant, but never have tried them at home. Maybe I’ll try the popcorn microgreens and see if I like them. Thanks!

  • Robin Umbarger Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:42

    I’ve been growing my own mung bean sprouts for years to use in Asian recipes. But when my CSA includes microgreens, I tend to forget about them and find them in the fridge after it’s too late! 🙁 Maybe a tray growing on the windowsill would be a better way to remember them.

  • Bobbi Dougherty Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:41

    I have never grown them but my sister grows the hydroponically. We eat the plain or on salads. Pretty good

  • Judy Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:41

    Hi Kris:
    I’ve been growing 2 cherry tomato plants and 1 pepper plant on my sunny front porch in Los Angeles and they’ve done very well. We’ve gotten several baskets of tomatoes and 4 good-sized peppers so far, and there are 4 more coming along. I love the green planter you featured and am going to see if I can find one online. Thanks for sharing.

  • bob craig Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:40

    got to give this a try this winter…

  • Adriana Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:39

    Very interesting! I never tried popcorn microgreens, but now I’ll have to. Thanks for the info.

  • Suranna Michael Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:39

    This is such an awesome idea.

  • Donna Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:38

    You learn something new everyday. This sounds pretty cool..can’t wait to try..

  • Stephanie Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:36

    I have not heard of growing corn for microgreens before. That sounds yummy. I will have to try that. Thanks for the post.

  • Rita Rhodes Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:35

    I used to grow alfalfa sprouts regularly when my daughter was young, because it was pretty much the only green thing I could get her to eat. She called it “fairy hair” and ate it on *everything*! I haven’t grown greens in a very long time, but this is a great idea to have some fresh greens during our long, cold northern Illinois winter.

  • Sue D Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:33

    I have grown microgreens before and need to start up again. I never tried popcorn so thanks for sharing this.

  • Maggie Paap Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:33

    I absolutely love your book and I love micro greens! You have helped me become more sustainable and for that I THANK YOU! You are so full of awesome information and it does not go unappreciated ❤️❤️

  • bob craig Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:33

    haven’t ventured into this way of accessibility to …say- herbs! got to try!

    • Jen Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:51

      I have heard of microgreens pertaining to basically salad greens but never popcorn. I have had pea sprouts, they are awesome. Popcorn…!?!…gonna try that once I get a container. Thanks for the idea.

  • Denise Blanc Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:32

    I learn something new every day from you. Thank yo. I’m going to try this.

  • Jessie B Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:29

    Oh, this is interesting! I grow microgreens/sprouts all the time, but never tried popcorn. Adding this to my list!

    • Desiree Aquino Dec 3, 2020 @ 10:38

      Wow! Never tried this before. Thanks for the info.

  • Rebecca May 14, 2019 @ 5:49

    Should there be a few holes poked in the bottom of the plastic container for drainage?
    Also, how would this be different/better than sprouting these kernels in a jar in the dark (no soil) as you might do with alfalfa or clover seeds? Just curious.

    • Kris Bordessa May 16, 2019 @ 8:39

      Yes! If you’re not upcycling a container with holes, then you DO need drainage.

  • Victoria Bishop Sep 30, 2018 @ 7:47

    Will popcorn..plain…purchased at the grocer’s…sprout? In your mention of growing lentil beans, you say that “will sprout better than green lentils”, but didn’t say what the better bean was. Please let me know what color bean you intended.

    Thank you for the wonderful instructions for sprouting beans..and popcorn. I was just checking my email and saw your post. I will start some beans today and continue through winter. Also, I now plan to give some Mason Jar sprouts to friends for Christmas gifts. Like me, several friends stir fry several times a week. This will be a very novel gift. Yum.

    • Kris Bordessa Oct 17, 2018 @ 9:50

      It *might. It depends on how it’s been treated. That’s why I suggest organic popcorn.

  • Peter Logan Mar 27, 2018 @ 17:51

    Planting kernels in soil is not what nature intended. The seeds must draw its nutrients from the soil which gives it a more earthy taste. To have sprouts that your guests will want to take home, leave them on the cob, The best corn to use is the “peaches and cream” variety, Leave the ear in its husk and freeze it for 7 days. This will trigger the seed’s hibernation, sequence for winter.Taking it from the freezer, place it upright in the sun with the husk intact. A glass with a little bit of water in the bottom for the cut end of the ear is recommended. After approx. 3 weeks, carefully pull back a section of husk to check the sprouts. When they are 2 to 3 inches long, husk the ear and harvest the sprouts. The incredible sweet taste of the corn is due to each seed getting the nutrients to grow from the natural cob which is much better for the seeds, much like the difference between powdered formula ( planting soil) and fresh mother’s milk( cob).

    • Peter Logan Mar 27, 2018 @ 17:57

      The things I forgot to mention, The seeds that are on the cob have not been subjected to anti-rot chemicals or pesticides, since the ears are sold for human consumption. Also, since they germinate inside the husk, each sprout stays white and tender until harvested.

      • Kris Bordessa Mar 29, 2018 @ 6:42

        I’ve never heard of this, but purchasing organic popcorn will eliminate the addition of chemicals.

  • Amy Young Miller Oct 25, 2017 @ 4:30

    yummy!! Thanks for this super-easy to follow tutorial!! I’m going to try planting some of these today!

    • Michele taylor Dec 3, 2020 @ 9:11

      Interesting, could you just sprout the seeds instead of growing them?

  • Aura Jan 24, 2017 @ 19:12

    We don’t have a sunny window. Will they still grow inside without the sun?
    Thank you.

    • AMY GARRETT Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:44

      you can always get grow lights! There are bulbs you can buy on amazon for $10-$20 just search grow light. I have done that for years to extend my growing season!

  • Lloyd Jul 20, 2016 @ 7:02

    I’m all for microbrews and sprouts, but eating sprouting corn and eating the shoots may not be a good choice.

    Years ago, I grew up on a farm in Upstate New York, we had dairy cows. They always wanted to get thru a fence and find a field of corn coming up. But, I was always told that the new corn shoots goes thru a stage of high concentrations of cyanide. Is this true and of the popcorn variety?

    • Kris Bordessa Jul 20, 2016 @ 8:21

      Hm. This is the first I’ve heard of this, and google isn’t pulling anything up for me in a quick search. I did fine this, though: https://www.rodalesorganiclife.com/food/foods-contain-arsenic. (If you give up sprouts, you might have to give up beer/wine, too!) If you find definitive information, please let me know!

      • AMY GARRETT Dec 3, 2020 @ 7:43

        yup not giving up beer and wine lol. I am an army veteran though, so I have been around burns pits and have really just come to accept I have been exposed to everything under the sun, and trying to avoid more is pointless. I just want to enjoy my life! I do love microgreens though! I usually keep about 2. trays growing in my kitchen 🙂

    • Karen Harris Dec 29, 2017 @ 13:35

      Seed corn is commonly coated with pesticide (often bright pink). Could this be the source of your concern?

    • Katie Jan 30, 2021 @ 8:11

      Corn does contain compounds that can convert to cyanide depending on several factors. More of an issue with ruminants from what I have read. There are a few articles out there. Here is one of them: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/sorghum-halepense

  • Karla Mar 8, 2016 @ 8:30

    Popcorn micros are AMAZING! As a grower myself I highly recommend that you grow them in blackout conditions (total darkness). They turn out extremely tender, much sweeter, and are a beautiful almost neon yellow when grown this way. They make for a stunning garnish and fun addition to salads.

  • Chris Feb 19, 2016 @ 7:15

    Those look amazing. I never thought of using popcorn for microgreens. Cheap source of seed. Not Genetically Modified. And you could share it with your chickens or rabbits if you wanted to. An all round winning idea.

    • Calla Funk Dec 3, 2020 @ 12:08

      Popcorn as microgreens… that is the coolest thing ever. I have some mixed greens growing now in my grow light setup and will definitely try popcorn next. Thanks for the tips.

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