Yarrow White Microgreen Seeds

Yarrow White Microgreen Seeds

Botanical Name: Achillea millefolium

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Yarrow is a distinctive specialty microgreen grown for its finely divided foliage, strong herbal aroma and complex, slightly bitter flavour. Unlike mild microgreens such as broccoli, radish or pea shoots, yarrow develops an intensely aromatic character that makes it particularly useful as a culinary garnish and accent ingredient.

The young plants begin with small cotyledons before developing the finely textured, fern-like true leaves characteristic of Achillea millefolium. These delicate leaves provide both flavour and visual detail, making yarrow microgreens especially suited to restaurant plating, gourmet salads and dishes where only a small amount of a strongly flavoured microgreen is required.

Yarrow seed is very small and benefits from light during germination. For microgreen production, sow onto the surface of a moist growing medium, press gently into contact and avoid burying the seed deeply. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging and provide good light as seedlings emerge.

Flavour: Aromatic, herbaceous and slightly bitter with distinctive camphor-like notes. Use sparingly as a culinary accent.

Key Attributes

Product Description

Yarrow microgreens are the young seedlings of Achillea millefolium, a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. When grown as a microgreen, yarrow is harvested during its early seedling development rather than being allowed to mature into the larger flowering plant commonly grown in herb gardens and perennial borders.

The seed is extremely small, and the earliest seedlings develop modest cotyledons before producing the intricately divided true foliage for which yarrow is recognised. These first true leaves quickly develop a delicate, feathery appearance, making the crop visually different from broader-leaved microgreens such as mustard, broccoli, cabbage or radish.

The main culinary characteristic of yarrow microgreens is their intense aromatic flavour. The young foliage has noticeable herbal and bitter characteristics, sometimes described as camphor-like. This is not a neutral microgreen intended to form the bulk of a salad. Instead, yarrow is best used in smaller amounts as a flavouring component or garnish where its distinctive character can complement other ingredients.

For chefs and specialty microgreen growers, this intensity can be an advantage. Small quantities can provide flavour and visual texture without requiring large serving sizes. The finely divided foliage also creates a delicate appearance that works well on finished plates.

Yarrow differs from many fast-growing brassica microgreens because the seed should not be buried deeply or subjected to a prolonged dark blackout period. Light assists germination, so seed is best scattered over a moist growing medium and gently pressed into contact with the surface.

Under suitable growing conditions, cotyledons may begin developing within approximately 4–8 days, although germination and crop development depend on temperature, moisture, seed lot, growing medium and lighting. The more distinctive true leaves develop after the cotyledon stage and provide the characteristic appearance associated with yarrow microgreens.

Growers may harvest at an earlier stage for smaller shoots or allow the seedlings to develop their first true leaves for increased visual character and a more pronounced herbal flavour.

Because yarrow is strongly flavoured, trial small amounts before using it extensively in food preparation.

Why Grow Yarrow Microgreens?

• Distinctive specialty microgreen with finely divided foliage.
• Strong aromatic, herbaceous and slightly bitter flavour.
• Attractive fern-like true leaves for culinary presentation.
• Excellent microgreen for chefs and gourmet food preparation.
• Useful as a garnish rather than a bulk salad green.
• Provides contrast to conventional microgreens such as radish, broccoli and mustard.
• Can be grown indoors throughout the year under suitable conditions.
• Suitable for shallow trays and small-scale microgreen production.
• Tiny seed provides dense potential plant populations from relatively small quantities.
• Can be harvested at the young seedling or early true-leaf stage.
• Suitable for home growers and specialist commercial microgreen producers.
• Interesting addition to mixed microgreen selections and chef’s garnish ranges.

Microgreen Details

Sowing Information

Growing Yarrow Microgreens in Australia

Yarrow microgreens can be grown throughout the year indoors because growers can control temperature, water and lighting rather than relying on outdoor seasonal conditions.

This differs from growing mature yarrow plants outdoors, where climate and sowing season have a much greater influence on establishment and flowering.

For microgreen production, the most important environmental factors are:

• Consistent moderate temperature
• Reliable moisture without waterlogging
• Good light during germination and seedling development
• Clean trays and growing medium
• Good airflow around established seedlings

In very warm Australian conditions, particularly during summer, indoor growing areas can become excessively hot. Keep trays away from hot windows, enclosed greenhouses and other locations where temperatures may rise rapidly.

During cooler weather, germination may be slower if trays are kept in unheated rooms. A stable indoor environment generally produces more predictable results.

How to Grow Yarrow Microgreens

Yarrow requires a slightly different approach from many common microgreen crops because its seed is extremely small and benefits from light during germination.

Begin with a clean shallow tray containing approximately 2–4 cm of suitable microgreen growing medium. Coco coir, fine seed-raising mix or a dedicated microgreen medium can all work provided they retain moisture while draining freely.

Level the surface gently before sowing. Large hollows or uneven areas can cause the tiny seeds to collect together when watered.

Pre-moisten the growing medium so that it is evenly damp throughout but not saturated.

Scatter the yarrow seed as evenly as possible across the surface. Because the seed is extremely small, careful distribution is more important than attempting to position individual seeds.

After sowing, gently press the seed against the surface to improve contact between the seed and moist growing medium.

Do not bury yarrow seed deeply. A very fine dusting of growing medium or vermiculite may be used if required, but the seeds should remain extremely close to the surface.

Mist lightly after sowing.

Unlike crops commonly germinated under complete blackout, yarrow benefits from light during germination. If using a humidity cover, choose a clear cover that still allows light to reach the seed.

Maintain consistent moisture while germination begins. Because the seeds are so small and remain near the surface, they can dry rapidly if the upper layer of growing medium becomes completely dry.

Once seedlings become established, remove any humidity cover and provide good light and airflow.

Continue growing until the crop reaches the preferred harvest stage.

Does Yarrow Need a Blackout Period?

No prolonged blackout period is recommended for yarrow microgreens.

Many common microgreens such as radish, broccoli and sunflower are frequently stacked or covered during early germination. Yarrow behaves differently because its small seed responds positively to light during germination.

For this reason, placing freshly sown yarrow seed under an opaque tray for several days may result in poorer or less uniform germination.

If a cover is required to help maintain humidity, use a transparent cover or dome that allows light to reach the seed.

Remove the cover once seedlings are established to improve airflow.

Should Yarrow Microgreen Seeds Be Soaked?

No. Yarrow seeds do not require soaking before sowing.

The seeds are extremely small, and soaking would make them difficult to distribute evenly across a tray.

Instead, thoroughly moisten the growing medium before sowing and then gently mist the seed after it has been scattered over the surface.

This allows the seed to absorb moisture while remaining correctly positioned for germination.

Choosing a Growing Medium

Yarrow microgreens perform best in a fine growing medium that maintains even moisture around the small seed.

Suitable options include:

• Coco coir
• Fine microgreen growing mixes
• Quality seed-raising mix
• Other clean, fine-textured growing substrates designed for seedlings

Avoid coarse potting mixes containing large bark particles because tiny yarrow seeds can fall into deep gaps or receive uneven moisture.

The growing medium should retain enough moisture to prevent the seed surface from drying rapidly but should also drain freely.

Watering Yarrow Microgreens

Moisture management is particularly important during germination.

Because yarrow seed is surface sown and extremely small, the seed can dry out more quickly than larger seeds buried within the growing medium.

Immediately after sowing, use a fine mist to moisten the seed without washing it into clusters.

Continue misting when required during early germination.

Once roots are established, growers may begin watering from below by adding water to a solid tray beneath the growing tray.

Bottom watering helps keep the foliage drier and reduces disturbance to the seedlings.

Avoid allowing trays to remain permanently saturated. Excess water around the roots can reduce oxygen availability and encourage fungal problems.

The aim is an evenly moist—not waterlogged—growing medium.

Lighting Requirements

Yarrow requires light during germination and continued good light after emergence.

A bright indoor position or suitable horticultural grow light can be used.

When using artificial lighting, position the light sufficiently close to provide strong, even illumination without overheating the seedlings.

Insufficient light may cause seedlings to become stretched, weak and pale.

Excessive heat from direct sunlight through glass can also stress seedlings, particularly during Australian summer conditions.

For controlled microgreen production, artificial lighting often provides more consistent results because the intensity and duration can be kept relatively stable.

Airflow and Humidity

High humidity can be useful during the earliest stage of germination, but continuously humid and stagnant conditions are undesirable once seedlings emerge.

After germination:

• Remove enclosed humidity covers.
• Provide gentle airflow around the tray.
• Avoid overcrowding the growing area.
• Do not leave foliage continuously wet.
• Allow excess irrigation water to drain freely.

Good airflow becomes increasingly important as the canopy develops.

How Long Do Yarrow Microgreens Take to Grow?

Yarrow is not as fast as many conventional microgreens.

Under suitable conditions, cotyledons may become visible approximately 4–8 days after sowing. Development of the first characteristic true leaves follows during the subsequent growing period.

Actual timing varies according to:

• Temperature
• Light intensity
• Seed lot
• Growing medium
• Moisture
• Desired harvest stage

Growers seeking the decorative fern-like foliage should allow the crop to develop beyond the earliest cotyledon stage.

Rather than relying exclusively on a fixed number of days, assess the physical development of the crop and harvest when the leaves have reached the size and appearance required.

When to Harvest Yarrow Microgreens

Yarrow microgreens may be harvested from the developed seedling stage through to the early true-leaf stage.

For maximum visual character, allow the first divided true leaves to develop. These leaves provide the delicate fern-like appearance that distinguishes yarrow from many other microgreens.

For a smaller and milder product, harvesting somewhat earlier may be preferred.

Taste the crop at different stages to determine the flavour intensity most suitable for your intended use.

Because yarrow has a naturally strong flavour, allowing seedlings to mature further may produce a stronger herbal character.

How to Harvest Yarrow Microgreens

Use clean, sharp scissors or a microgreen harvesting knife.

Hold a small section of foliage gently and cut the stems above the surface of the growing medium.

Avoid pulling plants from the tray, as this can introduce growing medium and roots into the harvested product.

Harvest only clean, healthy foliage.

Where possible, harvest when the leaves are dry rather than immediately after overhead watering.

After harvesting, inspect the microgreens and remove any growing medium, seed debris or damaged seedlings.

For best quality, use freshly harvested yarrow promptly.

Yarrow Microgreen Flavour

Yarrow is a strongly flavoured microgreen.

Its taste is generally described as:

• Herbaceous
• Aromatic
• Slightly bitter
• Camphor-like
• Complex and savoury

The flavour is considerably stronger than mild microgreens such as pea shoots, broccoli or sunflower.

For this reason, yarrow is generally best used sparingly.

Think of it as a culinary herb or finishing garnish rather than a large-volume salad green.

Using Yarrow Microgreens

Yarrow microgreens can provide both flavour and visual detail to culinary dishes.

Potential uses include:

• Fine-dining plate garnish
• Small additions to mixed salads
• Garnishing grilled vegetables
• Seafood and fish dishes
• Savoury tart and pastry presentation
• Herb-focused dishes
• Garnishing soups immediately before serving
• Citrus-based savoury preparations
• Small additions to specialty microgreen mixes
• Restaurant and catering presentation

Because the flavour is powerful, begin with a very small amount and adjust according to taste.

Adding yarrow at the end of preparation helps retain its characteristic aroma and delicate appearance.

Growing Yarrow for Restaurants and Commercial Microgreen Production

Yarrow can provide an unusual addition to a commercial microgreen range.

It is particularly relevant to growers supplying:

• Restaurants
• Fine-dining kitchens
• Chefs
• Specialty food retailers
• Caterers
• Gourmet produce boxes

The main commercial advantage is differentiation.

Yarrow is not a commodity microgreen like radish or broccoli. Its value lies in its unusual foliage, strong flavour and ability to provide chefs with a specialty ingredient that may not be readily available through conventional produce channels.

Growers should conduct small production trials before scaling up so that sowing density, harvest stage and crop timing can be adapted to their own growing environment.

Growing Density

Because yarrow seed is very small, precise sowing density can vary considerably according to seed lot, tray size, growing system and intended harvest stage.

Avoid extremely heavy sowing until you have tested the crop.

Overly dense trays can:

• Reduce airflow.
• Encourage weak elongated seedlings.
• Increase moisture retention within the canopy.
• Make harvesting more difficult.

Begin with a moderate, evenly distributed sowing and adjust future trays according to germination percentage and crop density.

Commercial growers are encouraged to record seed weight, tray dimensions, germination results and finished yield for each trial.

Troubleshooting Yarrow Microgreens

Poor Germination

Check that the seed has not been buried too deeply. Yarrow benefits from light during germination, so surface sowing is preferable.

Also check that the seed surface has remained consistently moist.

Uneven Germination

Uneven distribution of tiny seed, irregular watering or an uneven growing-medium surface can create patchy emergence.

Level the medium carefully and use a fine mist during early watering.

Seedlings Are Stretching

Long, weak seedlings generally indicate insufficient light. Increase light intensity or move the light source closer while avoiding excessive heat.

Seedlings Collapse After Emergence

Excess moisture, stagnant air and overly dense sowing can encourage seedling diseases. Improve drainage and airflow and avoid keeping the medium saturated.

Seedlings Are Growing Slowly

Yarrow naturally develops more slowly than fast brassica microgreens. Low temperatures, weak lighting or excessive moisture can further slow development.

Leaves Taste Very Bitter

Bitterness is part of yarrow’s natural flavour profile. Harvest slightly younger seedlings and use smaller quantities if a milder flavour is preferred.

Food Safety for Home-Grown Microgreens

Good hygiene is important whenever growing food crops indoors.

For cleaner microgreen production:

• Use clean trays and equipment.
• Wash hands before handling seed or harvested microgreens.
• Use clean water suitable for food production.
• Use a clean growing medium.
• Avoid allowing pets or other sources of contamination near growing trays.
• Provide appropriate airflow.
• Discard crops showing unusual mould, decay or contamination.
• Use clean harvesting equipment.
• Refrigerate harvested microgreens promptly where appropriate.

Microgreens should be grown from seed intended for edible crop production. Do not use fungicide-treated or otherwise chemically treated planting seed for edible microgreens.

Storing Harvested Yarrow Microgreens

For best flavour and appearance, use yarrow microgreens as soon as possible after harvesting.

If storage is required, ensure the foliage is reasonably dry before refrigeration.

Place the harvested microgreens into a clean food-safe container with sufficient protection to prevent crushing.

Excess surface moisture can accelerate deterioration, so avoid washing immediately before storage unless required.

Store refrigerated and inspect before use.

As with most delicate microgreens, quality is highest when the crop is harvested close to the time it will be served.

Can Yarrow Microgreens Regrow After Harvest?

Yarrow is botanically a perennial plant when allowed to mature, but microgreen production is generally treated as a single-cut crop.

Although some seedlings may produce additional growth after cutting, regrowth is unlikely to provide the same density, uniformity or quality as the first harvest.

For consistent microgreen production, start a new tray from fresh seed after each crop.

Yarrow Microgreens vs Mature Yarrow

Yarrow microgreens and mature yarrow come from the same species, Achillea millefolium, but they are grown and harvested at very different stages.

Microgreens are harvested while the plant is still a young seedling. They have small stems and developing leaves and are produced densely in shallow trays.

Mature yarrow is a perennial herb that develops a persistent root system, upright flowering stems and flat clusters of small flowers.

For microgreen production, the crop is harvested before any mature plant structure or flowering develops.

Perfect For

• Specialty microgreen growers
• Commercial microgreen farms
• Restaurants and chefs
• Fine-dining garnishes
• Home microgreen production
• Gourmet food presentation
• Mixed herb microgreen selections
• Growers looking for unusual microgreen varieties
• Culinary experimentation
• Small-scale indoor growing
• Year-round controlled-environment production
• Finely textured garnish crops
• Aromatic and strongly flavoured microgreens

Frequently Asked Questions

What are yarrow microgreens?

Yarrow microgreens are the young seedlings of Achillea millefolium. They are harvested during early growth, usually around the cotyledon to early true-leaf stage, rather than being grown into mature flowering yarrow plants.

What is the botanical name of yarrow?

The botanical name of common yarrow is Achillea millefolium. It belongs to the Asteraceae family.

Can yarrow be grown as a microgreen?

Yes. Yarrow can be grown as a specialty microgreen and is particularly valued for its distinctive flavour and finely divided true leaves.

What do yarrow microgreens taste like?

Yarrow has a strong aromatic, herbal and slightly bitter flavour with noticeable camphor-like characteristics. It is considerably stronger than many common microgreens.

Are yarrow microgreens mild?

No. Yarrow is a strongly flavoured specialty microgreen. It is usually best used in small quantities rather than as the main component of a salad.

What do yarrow microgreens look like?

The seedlings begin with small cotyledons and later develop finely divided true leaves. These leaves have a delicate, fern-like appearance that makes yarrow particularly attractive as a garnish.

How long do yarrow microgreens take to germinate?

Early seedling development may occur within approximately 4–8 days under favourable conditions, although exact germination timing varies according to temperature, moisture, light and seed lot.

How long do yarrow microgreens take to grow?

Yarrow generally develops more slowly than very fast microgreens such as radish. The desired harvest time depends on whether the crop is harvested at the cotyledon stage or allowed to develop its characteristic true leaves.

Should yarrow microgreen seeds be soaked?

No. Yarrow seeds are extremely small and do not require soaking. Sow them directly onto a pre-moistened growing medium.

Does yarrow need light to germinate?

Yes. Light assists yarrow seed germination. For microgreen production, surface sow the seed or cover it only extremely lightly rather than burying it.

Should yarrow microgreens be grown in blackout?

A prolonged opaque blackout period is not recommended because yarrow benefits from light during germination. A clear humidity cover can be used if additional moisture retention is needed.

How deep should yarrow seed be sown?

Yarrow should be surface sown or covered extremely lightly. Gently press the seed into contact with the moist growing medium rather than burying it deeply.

What growing medium is best for yarrow microgreens?

A fine-textured, moisture-retentive but free-draining medium works well. Coco coir, seed-raising mix and dedicated microgreen substrates are suitable options.

Can yarrow microgreens be grown in coco coir?

Yes. Fine coco coir is suitable provided moisture is carefully managed and the tray drains freely.

How often should yarrow microgreens be watered?

Water according to the moisture level of the growing medium rather than following a fixed schedule. Keep the surface consistently moist during germination, then avoid excessive watering once seedlings are established.

Can yarrow microgreens be bottom watered?

Yes. Once the seedlings have established roots, bottom watering can help maintain moisture while keeping the foliage relatively dry.

Do yarrow microgreens need grow lights?

Grow lights are not essential if sufficient natural light is available, but controlled artificial lighting can provide more consistent growth and is particularly useful for indoor commercial production.

Can yarrow microgreens be grown indoors?

Yes. Indoor tray production is well suited to yarrow microgreens because temperature, watering and lighting can be controlled throughout the year.

Can yarrow microgreens be grown year-round?

Yes. Under controlled indoor conditions, yarrow microgreens can be sown throughout the year.

What temperature is best for growing yarrow microgreens?

Moderate indoor temperatures are preferable. Avoid extreme heat, which can rapidly dry the seed surface and stress young seedlings.

When should I harvest yarrow microgreens?

Harvest when the seedlings have reached the size and leaf development you prefer. Allowing the first true leaves to develop provides the characteristic finely divided yarrow foliage.

Can yarrow be harvested at the cotyledon stage?

Yes. Earlier harvesting is possible, although the crop will have less of the distinctive fern-like foliage associated with yarrow.

Can I wait for true leaves before harvesting?

Yes. Many growers will prefer the early true-leaf stage because it provides greater visual interest and the characteristic yarrow leaf shape.

How do I harvest yarrow microgreens?

Use clean sharp scissors or a microgreen harvesting knife and cut the seedlings above the growing medium. Avoid pulling up roots and soil with the crop.

Do yarrow microgreens regrow after cutting?

Some individual plants may produce regrowth, but yarrow microgreen trays are best treated as single-cut crops. Sow a fresh tray for consistent quality and density.

Are yarrow microgreens good for chefs?

Yes. Their finely textured foliage and strong flavour make them particularly useful as a specialty garnish and finishing ingredient for chefs.

How are yarrow microgreens used in cooking?

Use small amounts in salads, savoury dishes, seafood presentations, vegetable dishes and plated garnishes. Add near the end of preparation to preserve the delicate foliage and aromatic flavour.

Can yarrow microgreens be used in salads?

Yes, but use them sparingly because their flavour is much stronger and more bitter than most salad greens.

Are yarrow microgreens good for garnishing?

Yes. Their finely divided foliage makes them particularly effective as a decorative garnish where both flavour and visual texture are required.

Why are my yarrow seeds not germinating?

Common causes include burying the seed too deeply, allowing the surface to dry, excessive heat or poor seed-to-medium contact. Yarrow seed benefits from light during germination.

Why are my yarrow seedlings stretched?

Weak or elongated seedlings usually indicate insufficient light. Increase the available light while ensuring seedlings are not exposed to excessive heat.

Why are my yarrow microgreens growing slowly?

Yarrow is naturally slower than many common microgreen species. Cool temperatures, poor lighting, excessive water or inconsistent moisture can further slow growth.

Why do my yarrow microgreens taste bitter?

A noticeable bitter and herbal character is normal for yarrow. It is one of the reasons the microgreen is generally used as a small culinary accent rather than a bulk salad crop.

Can I mix yarrow with other microgreens?

Yes. Small quantities can add flavour and texture to mixed microgreen selections. Because yarrow has a strong taste, it is usually best used at a lower proportion than mild varieties.

What microgreens pair well with yarrow?

Milder microgreens such as pea, sunflower, broccoli and selected herbs can provide contrast to yarrow’s stronger herbal character. The ideal combination depends on the intended culinary use.

Is yarrow suitable for commercial microgreen growers?

Yes. Yarrow is particularly suited to growers supplying chefs and specialty food markets. It is more of a niche crop than a high-volume microgreen and should be trialled before large-scale production.

Is yarrow harder to grow than radish microgreens?

Generally yes. Radish germinates and grows extremely quickly, while yarrow has very small seed, benefits from light during germination and develops more gradually. It is therefore better regarded as an intermediate specialty crop.

Do yarrow microgreens need fertiliser?

For short microgreen production cycles, a quality growing medium generally provides suitable support during early development. Additional feeding requirements depend on the medium and how long the crop is allowed to grow.

Can yarrow microgreens be grown hydroponically?

Yarrow can potentially be grown in soilless systems, but the tiny seed requires reliable moisture and physical support during germination. Growers should conduct small trials before using a new hydroponic system commercially.

Can I grow yarrow microgreens on a hemp mat?

Potentially, provided the mat maintains consistent moisture and the tiny seed has good surface contact. Fine growing media may be easier for first-time growers because moisture levels are easier to stabilise around the seed.

How can I improve yarrow germination?

Use fresh seed, surface sow onto evenly moistened growing medium, gently press the seed into contact with the surface, provide light and prevent the upper layer from drying during germination.

Should I mist yarrow seeds?

Yes. Gentle misting is useful during early germination because ordinary watering can wash the tiny seeds into clusters.

When should I start bottom watering?

Begin bottom watering once seedlings have developed sufficient roots to draw moisture effectively from the growing medium. Until then, light misting may be needed to maintain surface moisture.

Can yarrow microgreens be grown in a 10 x 20 tray?

Yes. Standard microgreen trays can be used. Because seed is extremely small, begin with a moderate sowing density and adjust future plantings according to your germination percentage and desired canopy density.

What makes yarrow different from ordinary microgreens?

Yarrow combines a highly distinctive fern-like leaf structure with an unusually strong herbal flavour. It is grown primarily as a specialty culinary microgreen rather than a mild, high-volume salad crop.

Are these seeds intended to grow mature yarrow plants?

Although Achillea millefolium can grow into a mature perennial plant if allowed to continue developing, these seeds are offered specifically for microgreen production and early harvesting.

Can I grow the seedlings into mature plants instead?

Yes. If seedlings are separated and transplanted rather than harvested, Achillea millefolium can develop into mature perennial plants. Mature-plant growing requirements differ substantially from microgreen production.

Are yarrow microgreens suitable for beginners?

They can be grown successfully at home, but yarrow requires slightly more attention than very easy microgreens such as radish or broccoli. Maintaining surface moisture and providing light during germination are particularly important.

What is the best use for yarrow microgreens?

Their strongest attributes are their decorative foliage and concentrated herbal flavour. They are particularly well suited to chef garnishes, plated dishes and small additions to gourmet salads or specialty microgreen mixes.