10 Perennial Vegetables You Only Need To Plant Once & Harvest Forever

A garden where you can plant a vegetable once and enjoy its bounty year after year without the need to replant sounds like a dream, right? Welcome to the world of perennial vegetables!

These hardy plants are the gift that keeps on giving, offering delicious and nutritious harvests season after season. Here’s a list of the best perennial vegetables you can add to your garden.

1. Asparagus: Long-Lasting Springtime Delight

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Asparagus is a springtime favorite that’s not only delicious but also incredibly low-maintenance once established. After the initial planting, which requires a bit of patience, asparagus will reward you with tender spears every spring for up to 20 years!

This vegetable thrives best in well-drained soil and full sun. The first couple of years might not yield a significant harvest as the plants are busy establishing their roots.

However, by the third year, you’ll start to see a substantial increase in production. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and it’s a good source of fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your diet​ (ref).

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2. Rhubarb: Tangy Perennial Dessert Star

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Rhubarb is another perennial vegetable that brings a tangy twist to desserts and sauces. Known for its vibrant red stalks, rhubarb can continue to produce for up to 15 years when well-cared for.

This plant prefers cooler climates and requires rich, well-drained soil. Only the stalks are edible, as the leaves contain toxic oxalic acid. Rhubarb is packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which contribute to its red color and provide numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties​.

3. Jerusalem Artichoke: Nutty Underground Treasure

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Jerusalem artichokes, also known as sunchokes, are tubers that resemble ginger root but taste like a cross between potatoes and artichokes. These plants are incredibly resilient and can thrive in various soil types, making them a versatile addition to your garden.

Once planted, Jerusalem artichokes will spread and produce tubers each fall. They’re high in iron, potassium, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious alternative to traditional potatoes.

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Be mindful, though; they can be invasive, so it’s best to plant them in a contained area or dedicated bed​ (ref).

4. Sorrel: Tangy Leafy Green Marvel

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Sorrel is a leafy green with a tart, lemony flavor that’s perfect for salads, soups, and sauces. This hardy plant can be harvested continuously throughout the growing season and often thrives for several years.

Sorrel prefers cool, moist conditions and partial shade, making it an excellent choice for spots in the garden that don’t get full sun. It’s rich in vitamins C and A, as well as iron, contributing to a healthy, balanced diet.

Its tangy taste also adds a refreshing twist to various dishes.

5. Watercress: Nutrient-Dense Aquatic Superstar

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Watercress is a fast-growing aquatic plant that’s packed with nutrients. Known for its peppery flavor, watercress can be harvested repeatedly throughout the year and is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.

This plant thrives in clean, running water, so it’s ideal for gardens with a water feature or a nearby stream. Watercress is exceptionally rich in vitamin K and vitamin C, and it has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved bone health and reduced inflammation​.

6. Horseradish: Spicy Root with a Kick

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Horseradish is a pungent root vegetable that’s often used to add a spicy kick to condiments and dishes. Once planted, horseradish will continue to produce robust roots year after year with minimal care.

Horseradishes prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Its roots can be harvested in late fall or early spring for the best flavor.

Horseradish is rich in glucosinolates, compounds known for their cancer-fighting properties. Additionally, it’s a great source of antioxidants and has antibacterial qualities​ (ref)​​.

7. Good King Henry: Underrated Garden Gem

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Good King Henry, also known as Lincolnshire spinach, is an old-fashioned perennial vegetable that was once a staple in European gardens. Its young shoots and leaves are both edible and nutritious, providing a spinach-like flavor.

It thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade. Good King Henry is packed with vitamins A and C and is a good source of iron and calcium. It’s an excellent addition to a perennial vegetable garden, offering both versatility and nutrition​.

8. Sea Kale: Coastal Culinary Delight

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Sea kale is a coastal plant that brings a unique flavor to the table, similar to regular kale but with a slightly salty edge. This hardy perennial can thrive in sandy, well-drained soil and requires little maintenance.

Sea kale produces edible shoots, leaves, flowers, and even roots, making it a versatile plant in the kitchen. It’s high in vitamins C and K and provides a good amount of dietary fiber. Sea kale is also rich in glucosinolates, which have been studied for their potential cancer-preventive properties.

9. Lovage: Celery-Like Flavor Enhancer

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Lovage is a perennial herb that tastes similar to celery and can be used to flavor soups, stews, and salads. Once established, lovage can produce an abundance of leaves and seeds year after year.

This plant prefers rich, well-drained soil and full sun. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamins C and B, and is known for its digestive health benefits. Lovage also has diuretic properties, making it useful for reducing water retention.

10. Perennial Leeks: Onion Family’s Best-Kept Secret

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Perennial leeks, or Babington’s leeks, are a fantastic addition to any garden. Unlike annual leeks, which need to be replanted each year, perennial leeks will regrow from the same bulb season after season.

These leeks prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and manganese. Perennial leeks add a subtle onion flavor to dishes and can be used similarly to their annual counterparts​.

Incorporating perennial vegetables into your garden not only saves time and effort but also ensures a continuous supply of fresh, nutritious produce. These plants offer a sustainable way to enjoy homegrown vegetables with minimal upkeep.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, these hardy perennials are sure to bring lasting benefits to your gardening experience.

davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.