FAQ

Specific Questions:

Question:  What is the difference between 100% Chemical-Free seeds and Organic seeds?

Answer: While “organic” seeds allow certain approved chemicals and require costly government certification, 100% chemical-free means exactly that—no chemicals ever, at any stage. It’s a cleaner, purer choice without the red tape or compromise.  Please read our full article about the difference between 100% chemical-free and organic seeds.

Question:  How soon will you ship my order?

Answer:  Most orders will ship within 24 hours.  If you order after 2pm Eastern time on a Friday, it will ship out on Monday.  If you order before 2pm Eastern time Monday-Thursday, there is an excellent chance it will ship out the same day.  If it is a very large order, it may take an extra day.

Question:  Do you offer free shipping?

Answer:  We do not, however, the reason why is because we do not want to penalize most of our customers with high prices.  You see, our competitors that offer free shipping have to account for the fact that they ship all over the country, so generally they factor in the most expensive shipping on top of the seed price.  This means the “free shipping” price you are paying for the seed is usually more than what we charge for the seed plus calculated shipping.

Our shipping costs are based on your distance from our Michigan warehouse, and the size of the order.  When we can, we are going to use the USPS Priority Mail service, as that has always traditionally been the least expensive way to deliver a package.  Once the weight gets up there, as it does on larger orders, then we have to use FedEx Ground, which can be very expensive (especially when delivering to a residence).

We decided over ten years ago that rather than play pricing games with “free shipping”, we would simply keep the cost of the seed as low as possible, and our customers will pay what it costs us to ship the order.  If the calculated shipping seems expensive, you might we on the west coast, ordering a lot of seed.  On the other hand, if you’re close to Michigan you’re probably thinking that the total delivered cost of your order is really cheap and a great deal.

Question:. Can I swing by your Livonia, Michigan warehouse and pick up my seeds, or shop right there?

Answer:  Very sorry, our working warehouse is zoned commercial and we have neither the parking or insurance to allow retail shopping or pickups.  Even if you live around the corner, we must ship you your order.

General Questions:

1. What’s the difference between sprouts and microgreens, and which is better for home or commercial growing?

Answer:

Sprouts and microgreens are both young plants but differ significantly in cultivation and usage:(Cultivation Ag)

• Sprouts are germinated seeds grown in water, typically harvested within 2–7 days. They are consumed whole, including the seed, root, and shoot. However, due to their moist growing conditions, they carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination if not handled properly.(Cultivation Ag)
• Microgreens are grown in soil or a soil substitute and harvested after 7–21 days, once the first true leaves have developed. Only the stems and leaves are consumed, offering more intense flavors and higher nutrient concentrations compared to sprouts.(Cultivation Ag)

Best for Home Use: Microgreens are ideal for home gardeners seeking nutrient-rich greens with minimal space requirements.

Best for Commercial Growing: Microgreens are preferred for commercial purposes due to their higher market value, longer shelf life, and versatility in culinary applications.

2. How do I start growing microgreens at home or for a small business?

Answer:

For Home Gardeners:

1. Choose Seeds: Opt for high-quality, untreated seeds suitable for microgreens, such as broccoli, radish, or sunflower.
2. Prepare Trays: Use shallow containers with drainage holes and fill them with a sterile growing medium.
3. Sow Seeds: Evenly distribute seeds over the surface and lightly press them into the medium.(Gardenary)
4. Water and Cover: Mist the seeds with water and cover the tray to create a humid environment until germination.(Gardenweb)
5. Provide Light: Once sprouted, expose the microgreens to light (natural or grow lights) for 12–16 hours daily.
6. Harvest: Cut the microgreens just above the soil line when the first true leaves appear, typically within 7–14 days.(Wikipedia)

For Small Businesses:

• Scale Up: Invest in multiple trays and consider vertical shelving to maximize space.
• Maintain Hygiene: Implement strict sanitation protocols to ensure product safety.
• Market Research: Identify local demand by connecting with restaurants, grocery stores, and farmers markets.
• Packaging: Use food-safe, breathable containers to maintain freshness during transportation and display.

3. What licenses or permits do I need to sell microgreens at farmers markets or to local businesses?

Answer:

Requirements vary by location, but generally, you may need:

• Business License: Register your business with local authorities.(BARN2DOOR)
• Sales Tax Permit: Obtain a permit to collect sales tax if applicable in your area.
• Food Safety Certification: Complete a food handler’s course to ensure compliance with health regulations.
• Farmers Market Permit: Apply for a vendor permit specific to the markets where you plan to sell.
• Labeling Compliance: Ensure your packaging meets labeling requirements, including product name, weight, and contact information.

It’s advisable to consult your local Department of Agriculture or Small Business Administration for specific regulations in your area.

4. Which microgreens are most profitable to grow and sell at farmers markets or to restaurants?

Answer:

Profitability depends on factors like growth time, yield, and market demand. Popular and profitable microgreens include:(Cultivation Ag)

• Sunflower: Crunchy texture and nutty flavor; ready in 7–10 days.
• Pea Shoots: Sweet taste; harvestable in 10–14 days.
• Radish: Spicy flavor; quick growth cycle of 6–10 days.
• Broccoli: Mild flavor; rich in nutrients; ready in 8–12 days.
• Arugula: Peppery taste; harvest in 10–14 days.

These varieties are favored by chefs and health-conscious consumers, making them excellent choices for market sales.