Sunflower micogreens considered helpful as contributions to eye health

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Q. I am trying to incorporate into my diet as many foods as possible that help to support eye health. Is it true that sunflower microgreens can be useful for this purpose? If they are, how are they grown?

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A. Microgreens are small, nutrient-rich seedlings grown in shallow layers of soil indoors. Among them, broccoli, kale, spinach, pea and sunflower are considered helpful as contributions to eye health.

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Microgreen sunflower seeds are usually available in garden supply stores that have racks of West Coast Seeds. I found a package recently for a friend keen to grow them to boost her eye health, and I’ll be growing some over the winter.

The sprouts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help to nurture retinal health. Their lutein and zeaxanthin content, plus their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, are further benefits.

Any shallow container with drainage holes can be used. A usual soil depth is around 7.6 cm (three inches). Some people use plastic food containers with drainage holes punched into the bottom and the removed lid used as a drainage tray.

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Use a light, all-purpose potting mix clearly marked for indoor seeding. Dampen it well in the container, spread the seeds close together on the soil and cover them with a shallow layer of the mix. Spray-mist to dampen the top layer.

The seeds germinate within a week, and grow quickly. Unlike most other microgreens, which are left longer before harvesting, harvest sunflower microgreens, making the cuts right above the soil line, as soon as the first set of leaves (the seed leaves) have developed. These first leaves to form are large and succulent.

Sunflower microgreens are considered among the most delicious and easy to grow. The large, juicy stems and leaves have a nutty flavour. They are tasty additions to salads, sandwiches and smoothies and can serve also as an attractive garnish.

Be sure to purchase seeds sold specifically for growing microgreens.

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