Different vegetable varieties can enhance a garden in so many different ways, and today we’re going to talk about my top five, must-have perennial veggies for an edible garden.
The great part about perennial veggies is that they only need to be planted once, and cared for season after season. You don’t have to worry about planting them each year, and the maintenance on these plants is typically low.
Perennial vegetable plants are also hardier in nature, so they can handle harsher temperatures, different weather conditions, and are also more immune to animals and insects (depending on which varieties you choose to plant).
So, let’s dive in! Here are my top five picks for perennial veggies for zone 6:
1 - Asparagus
Delicious year-round, asparagus can be used in so many dishes. They need to be planted directly into the soil, and not transplanted. Asparagus also has to be planted after the first frost for optimal growing conditions, which is sometimes challenging in certain zones and climates.
2 - Kale
Known as one of the most nutrient-dense leafy greens, kale is an incredible ingredient that is versatile, and tasty. In fact, the antioxidants and minerals found in kale help the body remove unwanted toxins, and aid in the body’s ability to heal itself. Kale is generally easy to grow, as well, making it a great option for your edible garden.
3 - Leeks
Leeks (related to onions but can grow much larger) can sometimes be tricky to grow, but once you get the hang of it, they are an amazing addition to your diet. Technically they need to be replanted every two to three years, but they do best in cooler weather. It’s also best to let them mature before the last frost to enhance the flavor of your leeks.
4 - Shallots
Typically, shallots need drier soil to grow to avoid bulb rot. The amazing part about growing shallots is that their bulbs produce quickly, so you may end up with a LOT of shallots. This vegetable variety grows best in zones 5 and above, but if you live in zone 4 and wait until later in the season, you could also enjoy a harvest of shallots, as well.
5 - Broccoli
As a cool-season plant, broccoli should be planted several weeks before the last frost of the season - especially if you’re hoping for a mid-summer harvest.
There are so many other options to choose from, as well, like spinach and sweet potatoes. You really can’t go wrong with planting perennial vegetables, so make sure to check out which varieties grow best in your zone and climate, and go from there. They’ll save you time, money, and energy while producing delicious, nutritious vegetables to enjoy immediately, or at a later date through canning.
As always, if you need any design help, or you’re looking for a few more recommendations as you get started, be sure to head to my “Work with Rachel” tab to set up a time for a consultation. I’d love to help you get started on your planting journey!
