12 Perennial Vegetables to Plant for Years of Fresh Produce
Perennial vegetables are an excellent addition to any garden because they come back year after year, reducing the need for replanting. Here are 12 perennial vegetables you can plant for years of fresh produce:
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis): Asparagus is a popular perennial vegetable known for its tender shoots that emerge in the spring.
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum): Rhubarb produces large, tart stalks that are used in desserts and savory dishes.
Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus): Artichokes are large, thistle-like plants that produce edible flower buds.
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana): Horseradish is a pungent root vegetable that adds a spicy kick to dishes.
Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus): Also known as “sunchokes,” these tubers have a nutty, sweet flavor.
Egyptian Walking Onion (Allium × proliferum): These unique onions produce small bulbs at the top of the stalks, which eventually cause the plant to “walk” across the garden.
Sorrel (Rumex acetosa): Sorrel is a tangy, lemon-flavored leafy green that is easy to grow and returns year after year.
Lovage (Levisticum officinale): Lovage is a herb with a celery-like flavor, and its leaves and stems can be used in various dishes.
Sea Kale (Crambe maritima): Sea kale produces edible shoots and leaves with a mild, cabbage-like flavor.
Perennial Kale (Brassica oleracea): Unlike traditional kale, some perennial varieties like “Daubenton” can live for several years and provide continuous harvests.
Good King Henry (Chenopodium bonus-henricus): This lesser-known perennial vegetable is similar to spinach and has a delicate taste.
Chinese Artichoke (Stachys affinis): Also called “Crosnes,” these small, tuberous roots have a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
When planting perennial vegetables, ensure they have enough space to spread and grow over the years. Perennials usually take a bit longer to establish themselves, but they will reward you with fresh produce for many seasons, making them a valuable addition to your garden.