Perennial vegetables are a gardener’s dream. Plant them once, and they’ll come back year after year, providing a steady supply of fresh produce. This guide covers some of the best perennial vegetables you can grow in your garden for an ongoing harvest.
Perennial vegetables are not only a time-saver but also a reliable source of food. Unlike annuals, which need to be replanted each season, perennials grow back year after year. These vegetables can thrive with minimal maintenance, making them perfect for busy gardeners or those looking to establish a sustainable garden. We will now explore a variety of perennial vegetables that you can plant once and enjoy for many years.
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Asparagus is a popular perennial vegetable known for its delicious, tender spears. Plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
It takes about 2-3 years to establish, but once it does, you can harvest fresh asparagus every spring for up to 20 years. Regularly fertilize and keep the bed weed-free for optimal growth.
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
Rhubarb is a hardy perennial that thrives in cooler climates. It produces tart, flavorful stalks perfect for pies and jams. Plant rhubarb crowns in well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
Harvest the stalks in spring, but avoid eating the leaves, as they are toxic. Rhubarb can produce for over a decade with proper care.
Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus)
Jerusalem artichokes, or sunchokes, are tubers with a nutty flavor. They grow vigorously and can be somewhat invasive, so plant them in a contained area. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Harvest the tubers in the fall and leave some in the ground for next year’s crop. They are rich in inulin, a beneficial prebiotic fiber.
Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)
Globe artichokes are grown for their large, edible flower buds. They need full sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in a spot where they have room to spread.
Globe artichokes can produce for 5-10 years when given proper care. Harvest the buds before they open for the best flavor.
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)
Horseradish is a perennial root vegetable known for its pungent flavor. It’s easy to grow and thrives in full sun or partial shade.
Plant horseradish in well-drained soil and harvest the roots in late fall or early spring. Be careful, as it can spread aggressively. Horseradish can produce for many years with minimal maintenance.
Walking Onion (Allium × proliferum)
Walking onions, also known as Egyptian onions, produce small bulbs at the top of their stalks. These bulbs can be harvested and replanted. They are hardy and can grow in various soil types.
Walking onions are perennial and can provide green onions and bulbs year after year. They are particularly useful in the kitchen for their mild onion flavor.
Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
Sorrel is a leafy green with a tangy, lemony flavor. It grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil.
Sorrel is one of the first greens to emerge in spring and can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season. It’s a versatile plant that adds a zesty kick to salads, soups, and sauces.
Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
Lovage is a perennial herb that tastes similar to celery. It grows tall and prefers full sun and rich, moist soil. Both the leaves and stems are edible and can be used in soups, stews, and salads.
Lovage can produce for many years, and its seeds can be used as a spice. It’s a great addition to any herb garden.
Sea Kale (Crambe maritima)
Sea kale is a coastal plant that produces edible leaves, shoots, and flowers. It prefers sandy, well-drained soil and full sun. The young shoots can be harvested in early spring and taste similar to asparagus.
Sea kale is drought-tolerant and can produce for several years with minimal care. It’s a unique and hardy addition to the garden.
Good King Henry (Blitum bonus-henricus)
Good King Henry is a perennial green that can be used like spinach. It grows well in partial shade and prefers rich, moist soil. The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season, and the shoots can be eaten like asparagus.
Good King Henry is a resilient plant that can produce for many years.
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
Watercress is a fast-growing aquatic plant with a peppery flavor. It thrives in shallow water or constantly wet soil. Plant watercress in a sunny or partially shaded spot.
It can be harvested year-round, providing a continuous supply of fresh greens. Watercress is packed with nutrients and adds a punch to salads and sandwiches.
Oca (Oxalis tuberosa)
Oca is a tuber-producing plant from the Andes with a tangy flavor. It grows well in well-drained soil and full sun. Plant oca in the spring, and harvest the tubers after the first frost.
Oca can be stored like potatoes and re-planted for a new crop the following year. It’s a versatile and nutritious addition to the garden.
Skirret (Sium sisarum)
Skirret is a root vegetable with a sweet, nutty flavor. It grows well in moist, well-drained soil and full sun. Plant skirret in the spring, and harvest the roots in the fall.
The roots can be eaten raw or cooked and have a taste similar to parsnips. Skirret can produce for several years with proper care.
Perennial vegetables are a great investment for any garden, providing fresh produce year after year with minimal effort. By incorporating these hardy plants into your garden, you can enjoy a continuous harvest and reduce the need for replanting each season. Start planting these perennial vegetables today and reap the benefits of a sustainable and productive garden for years to come.