Container gardening and vertical planters have become increasingly popular, offering a solution for those with limited space. By choosing the right crops and employing simple techniques, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the season. In this blog post, we'll explore nine crop varieties that are perfect for replanting and harvesting repeatedly, making the most of your small gardening space.
Crop Varieties for Repeated Harvests:
1. Leeks
These onion-family herbs add a mild onion flavor and subtle aroma to dishes. Easily grown from seeds, leeks can be directly sown into the soil or started indoors and transplanted into containers. Simply trim them a few inches above the soil surface to encourage new growth while preserving the root system.
2. Lettuce and Greens
Varieties like romaine, butterhead, and other leafy greens are excellent candidates for repeated harvesting. By removing outer leaves only, these greens will continue to grow throughout the season. They're perfect for salads and sandwiches, providing a continuous source of fresh, crisp leaves.
3. Broccoli
Harvest the main head of broccoli and allow the side shoots to develop for continued harvesting. These smaller florets are just as delicious and can be enjoyed in stir-fries, salads, or simply steamed.
4. Amaranth
Rich in nutrients like phosphorus, manganese, and iron, amaranth is a versatile grain crop that can be harvested repeatedly. Trim the flower heads as they mature to prevent seeding, and the plant will produce new leaves for continued harvest.
5. Asparagus
While asparagus requires patience to establish, once mature, it can provide years of harvests. Begin harvesting spears in spring, and the plant will continue to produce more throughout the season. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, ensuring a steady supply of fresh asparagus.
6. Dandelion
Often considered a weed, dandelions are edible and nutritious. Sow some dandelion seeds in containers for pretty yellow blooms and tender greens. Harvest the leaves while young for a mild flavor, and discard any mature leaves to prevent bitterness.
7. Celery
Celery takes a bit of time to grow from seed but is worth the wait. Harvest outer stalks as needed, leaving the inner stalks to continue growing. Celery is a versatile addition to soups, stews, and salads, providing a burst of flavor and crunch.
8. Watercress
Though lesser-known in the United States, watercress is a delicious herb with a peppery taste. It grows rapidly from seed and can be harvested within two weeks of planting. Snip off the stems, leaving about half an inch attached to the main plant, and enjoy fresh watercress in salads and sandwiches.
9. Herbs
No garden is complete without a selection of fresh herbs. Basil, parsley, cilantro, and mint are just a few examples of herbs that can be continuously harvested throughout the season. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and ensures a constant supply of fragrant, flavorful herbs.
Even in the smallest of spaces, it's possible to enjoy a fruitful garden with continuous harvests. By choosing the right crops and employing proper harvesting techniques, you can maximize your yields and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce year-round.
