Planting has become a popular hobby for both men and women all over the world. Blame the lockdowns but really, there are so many benefits to planting and caring for produce.
Of course it’s not for everyone, but what if you could plant just once then just enjoy the harvest for years and years to come?
The answer? Perennial vegetables!
Globe Artichokes
It’s a huge plant that’s really striking to look at. One that looks good on Instagram!
You could opt to start with seeds but you can also plant them young. GrowVeg does just that, so choose a place that will let the plant receive lots of sunshine and leave at least three feet in between them if you’re planting a few more.
Keep the area free of weeds during the growing season. Make sure you water them well especially in dry weather. Mulch the soil with organic matter during spring to feed the plant. Battle winter with a mulch of straw or compost over the plants to protect them from freezing weather.
Babington’s Leek
They say this perennial leek has a mild, garlicky leek flavor. Plant the tiny bulblets into pots of all-purpose potting mix. You could also plant them outside so long as you have good quality soil. Just keep a close eye on them.
Leave them alone for the first year so they can bulk out and establish. Come second spring, you can harvest the stems by cutting them off at ground level. Just leave the bulbs below ground to continue growing.
Perennial Kale
Perennial kales are very hardy, all while reaching the height of an average person. They can be harvested almost year-round. You’ll have fresh greens from the garden anytime.
You can take cuttings taken from side shoots, or order them where they’ll arrive trimmed and ready to plant straight away. Plant them in pots of potting mix. Keep them moist in a bright area and don’t worry. They can take caterpillars!
Oca
Also called New Zealand Yam, these are easy to grow just like spuds minus the common issues that potatoes have. You can also cook them like potatoes so these are great as a food source.
Plant them in pots of potting mix and grow them under cover. Set plants about 3ft (90cm) apart when you move them outside. These plants don’t like the cold as much so watch out.
The tubers will form in autumn and are harvested only when the foliage has died off. Lift the tubers then dry them off indoors. They can be stored like potatoes so keep them cool.
Asparagus
Asparagus needs full sun and free-draining soil and some patience. Start your asparagus bed with dormant roots or crowns. Find a good spot and plant these awesome perennials.
Remove weeds and use garden compost. You’ll want to dig a trench about a foot (30cm) wide and 8in (20cm) deep.
You’ll need to make a ridge along the bottom of the trench. Spread the crowns out along the top. Set them about 18in (45cm) apart but leave the same distance between further trenches. Then backfill with soil and don’t forget to water.
Keep weeds in check by adding a mulch of compost or well-rotted manure. That will help slowly feed the roots.
Be patient for two years then on the third spring onwards, harvest for two months until about midsummer. And from then on, let the plant grow and harvest when you can.
For more on these perennial vegetables, watch the video below!
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