When it comes to gardening, perennial vegetables are a dream come true. Unlike annuals that need to be replanted every year, perennials come back year after year, saving you time and effort. They not only reduce your workload but also ensure a steady supply of fresh produce for years. Here are ten perennial vegetables that you plant once and enjoy forever.
1. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Asparagus is a well-known perennial vegetable that requires patience but rewards generously. Once established, an asparagus bed can produce for 15 to 20 years or more.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Asparagus thrives in well-drained soil with full sun. Plant crowns about 12-18 inches apart in trenches that are 6-8 inches deep.
- Maintenance: The first year is crucial—avoid harvesting to allow the plants to establish. In subsequent years, harvest spears when they are about 6-8 inches tall.
- Pest Control: Keep an eye out for asparagus beetles and practice good garden hygiene to avoid pest infestations.
Why it’s Worth It: Asparagus is not only delicious and versatile in the kitchen, but it’s also packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with folate and fiber.
2. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
Rhubarb is a hardy perennial that adds a unique tart flavor to desserts and sauces. This vegetable is especially popular in cooler climates and is often one of the first crops to emerge in spring.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Rhubarb prefers well-drained soil and a sunny spot. Plant crowns in early spring or fall, spacing them about 3 feet apart.
- Maintenance: Allow rhubarb to establish for at least a year before harvesting. Remove flower stalks to direct energy back into the plant.
- Pest Control: Rhubarb is generally pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for crown rot in poorly drained soils.
Why it’s Worth It: Rhubarb is high in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin K. Its vibrant red stalks also add a pop of color to your garden.
3. Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus)
Also known as sunchokes, Jerusalem artichokes are a type of sunflower that produces edible tubers. These tubers have a slightly nutty flavor and are a great alternative to potatoes.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Plant tubers in early spring in well-drained soil. They can grow quite tall, so choose a spot where they won’t shade out other plants.
- Maintenance: Once established, Jerusalem artichokes require minimal care. Harvest tubers in the fall after the first frost for the best flavor.
- Pest Control: These plants are relatively pest-free, but deer and rabbits may nibble on the foliage.
Why it’s Worth It: Jerusalem artichokes are rich in iron, potassium, and inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber that supports digestive health.
4. Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
Sorrel is a leafy green with a tangy, lemony flavor. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be used in salads, soups, and sauces.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Sorrel thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Plant seeds or starts in early spring.
- Maintenance: Keep sorrel well-watered, especially during dry spells. Regular harvesting encourages new growth.
- Pest Control: Sorrel is generally pest-resistant, but aphids may occasionally be a problem. Use insecticidal soap if needed.
Why it’s Worth It: Sorrel is a rich source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also one of the first greens to appear in spring, making it a valuable addition to your garden.
5. Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)
Artichokes are a perennial vegetable known for their edible flower buds. They require a bit more space and care but offer a unique and gourmet addition to your garden.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Artichokes thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. Plant crowns or young plants in the spring, spacing them about 3-4 feet apart.
- Maintenance: Mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Remove flower buds as they appear to encourage more production.
- Pest Control: Watch for aphids and slugs, which can damage young plants. Regularly inspect plants and use organic pest control methods.
Why it’s Worth It: Artichokes are high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Plus, they add a striking architectural element to your garden.
6. Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
Lovage is an herbaceous perennial that tastes similar to celery. It’s a versatile vegetable, with both the leaves and seeds used in cooking.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Lovage prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant seeds or divisions in spring, spacing plants about 2 feet apart.
- Maintenance: Lovage can grow quite large, so give it plenty of space. Regularly harvest leaves to encourage bushier growth.
- Pest Control: Lovage is generally pest-free, but it can be prone to aphids. Use organic methods to control infestations.
Why it’s Worth It: Lovage is rich in vitamin C and quercetin, an antioxidant. It’s a low-maintenance plant that can be used in a variety of dishes.
7. Walking Onions (Allium x proliferum)
Walking onions, also known as Egyptian onions, are a unique perennial that produces both underground bulbs and top sets, which are small bulbils that form at the top of the stalks.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Plant sets in the fall for the best results. Walking onions prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location.
- Maintenance: Once established, walking onions require little care. Harvest the bulbs and top sets as needed.
- Pest Control: Walking onions are resistant to most pests, though they can be susceptible to onion maggots. Rotate crops to avoid infestations.
Why it’s Worth It: Walking onions are incredibly hardy and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They are also rich in vitamin C and fiber.
8. Good King Henry (Blitum bonus-henricus)
Good King Henry is a lesser-known perennial vegetable with a spinach-like taste. It has been cultivated for centuries and is a great addition to a low-maintenance garden.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Plant Good King Henry in well-drained soil in a sunny to partially shaded location. Sow seeds in early spring.
- Maintenance: This plant is slow to establish but requires little care once it’s up and growing. Harvest young leaves regularly for the best flavor.
- Pest Control: Good King Henry is resistant to most pests, making it an easy-care option for perennial gardens.
Why it’s Worth It: Good King Henry is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. It’s a nutritious and low-maintenance addition to your garden.
9. Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
Watercress is a fast-growing aquatic perennial that thrives in wet conditions. Its peppery leaves add a zing to salads, sandwiches, and soups.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Watercress prefers cool, shady locations and requires a constant supply of water. Plant seeds or starts in spring near a stream or in a container with plenty of water.
- Maintenance: Keep watercress well-watered, and harvest regularly to prevent it from becoming too leggy.
- Pest Control: Watercress is relatively pest-free, but watch for aphids and snails.
Why it’s Worth It: Watercress is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.
10. Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)
Horseradish is a pungent root vegetable that adds a spicy kick to sauces and condiments. It’s incredibly hardy and can thrive in a variety of conditions.
Growing Tips:
- Planting: Plant horseradish roots in well-drained soil in a sunny location. Space plants about 18-24 inches apart.
- Maintenance: Horseradish requires minimal care. Harvest roots in the fall after the first frost for the best flavor.
- Pest Control: Horseradish is resistant to most pests, though it can spread aggressively. Consider planting it in a contained area to prevent it from taking over your garden.
Why it’s Worth It: Horseradish is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and glucosinolates, which have been linked to cancer prevention.
Conclusion
Perennial vegetables are a valuable addition to any garden. Not only do they save time and effort, but they also provide a reliable source of fresh produce year after year. By planting these ten perennial vegetables, you’ll enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor for many seasons to come. Whether you’re looking to reduce garden maintenance or simply enjoy the satisfaction of a sustainable harvest, these perennials are sure to impress.