Empowering Youth and Feeding Neighborhoods: Our Microgreens Greenhouse Initiative

The St Nicholas Miracle Garden greenhouse became a hub for innovation, education, and public health this year through our microgreens project. By growing nutrient-rich microgreens and engaging the local community, we are building healthier neighborhoods in Harlem.

Microgreens: Small Plants, Big Impact

Microgreens may be small, but their impact is tremendous. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these tiny greens provide highly concentrated nutrition that supports healthy diets for children, adults, and families. Introducing microgreens into our farm stand and community programs gives residents an easy way to improve their overall wellness. The project grows popular varieties such as broccoli, radish, and sunflower microgreens, offering accessible nutrition while demonstrating the potential of urban agriculture to meet local food needs.

Greenhouse Operations and Innovation

Our greenhouse provides the perfect space to grow microgreens year-round. Isaac Amos, CUNY College interns lead the day-to-day operations, maintaining the exterior irrigation system, monitoring environmental conditions, and piloting efficient growing methods to maximize productivity. He also partnered with Jude Vallon, a civic engineer, and Mi Oh My Hydroponic Farms, and the Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship (CADE) provided consultation to ensure the greenhouse operates at high standards. This collaboration provided education, expertise, and innovation, strengthening the infrastructure, allowing the garden to produce healthy food consistently and sustainably.

Community Engagement and Youth Education

Beyond production, the microgreens project serves as an educational platform. Youth and community members visiting the greenhouse learn about plant growth, sustainable farming practices, and the importance of nutrition. Our Kids Club participants and volunteers gain hands-on experience with planting, harvesting, and understanding the benefits of microgreens. This interactive learning fosters healthy habits, environmental awareness, and confidence in young people while engaging the broader community meaningfully.

Advancing Public Health

We are locally growing and distributing the microgreens to improve access to fresh, nutritious food and help families adopt healthier eating habits. Harlem and the Bronx residents will benefit from easy access to foods that support immune health, heart health, and overall well-being. The project also demonstrates how urban agriculture can contribute to community resilience, providing fresh produce, nutrition education, and safe spaces for connection and learning.

Join Us in Growing Healthy Communities

Supporting our microgreens greenhouse project can make a real difference in Harlem and the Bronx. Your purchase helps provide fresh, nutrient-rich food, hands-on education for youth and interns, and sustainable urban agriculture programs that strengthen our community.