Skip the messy soil this March with 14 vegetable seeds that sprout dramatically faster in a simple water setup.

Cilantro seeds can be sprouted in water by placing them on a damp paper towel. Keep the seeds moist but not submerged, and within a week, you’ll see tiny cilantro shoots.
Once sprouted, cilantro can be transferred to a larger container for continued growth. Enjoy the fresh, tender leaves in your cooking without the hassle of dealing with soil.
9. Arugula: Peppery Microgreens That Explode With Growth
Arugula seeds are perfect for water sprouting due to their rapid germination and growth. Place the seeds on a damp paper towel and keep them moist. Within 3 to 5 days, you’ll have peppery microgreens ready to harvest.
Arugula’s quick growth and spicy flavor make it a delightful addition to salads and sandwiches, and the water sprouting method ensures a steady supply of fresh greens.
10. Peas: Sweet Shoots and Tendrils From a Simple Soak
Peas can be started in water by soaking the seeds overnight to kickstart germination. Place the soaked seeds on a wet paper towel and keep them moist.
In less than a week, you’ll see sweet pea shoots and tendrils, which can be harvested as microgreens or allowed to grow further for pea pods. This method provides a quick and easy way to enjoy the fresh taste of peas.
11. Kale: Nutrient-Dense Seedlings That Thrive Hydroponically
Kale seeds are well-suited for water sprouting and can be started by placing them on a damp paper towel. Keep the seeds moist and in a warm location.
Within 5 to 7 days, you’ll have nutrient-dense kale seedlings ready to transfer to a hydroponic system or soil. Kale’s hardiness and nutritional benefits make it a valuable addition to any indoor garden.
12. Swiss Chard: Colorful Stems That Leap Ahead in Water
Swiss chard seeds can be sprouted in water by placing them on a damp paper towel. The seeds will germinate within a week, showcasing their vibrant stems.
Once sprouted, Swiss chard can be transferred to a larger container for continued growth. Its colorful stems and leaves add visual appeal and nutritional value to your indoor garden.
13. Beet Greens: Harvest the Tops Long Before the Roots
Beet seeds can be sprouted in water to enjoy beet greens long before the roots develop. Place the seeds on a damp paper towel and keep them moist.
Within a week, you’ll have tender beet greens ready to harvest. These greens are packed with nutrients and can be used in salads or sautés, providing a healthy addition to your diet.
14. Pak Choi and Other Asian Greens: Compact Sprinters for Jar Gardens
Pak choi and other Asian greens are ideal for water sprouting due to their compact size and rapid growth. Place the seeds on a damp paper towel in a jar or shallow dish.
In less than a week, you’ll see these greens sprouting, ready to transfer to a hydroponic setup or soil. Their fast growth and adaptability make them perfect for jar gardens, providing fresh, leafy greens for your meals.