33 Plants That Will Feed You Year After Year
Introduction
In a time of uncertainty, one of the most important skills one can possess is the ability to provide for oneself. Growing your own food is not only a practical skill but also a rewarding one. But what if I told you that there are plants that can feed you year after year, with minimal effort on your part? That’s right, there are perennial plants that will continue to provide you with a bountiful harvest without the need for replanting each year. In this article, we will explore 33 such plants that will ensure you have a sustainable source of food for years to come.
1. Asparagus
Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that can provide you with delicious spears year after year. It’s a hardy plant that requires little maintenance once established. Asparagus can take a few years to reach full production, but once it does, you’ll have a never-ending supply of this tasty vegetable.
2. Rhubarb
Rhubarb is another perennial that can provide you with a harvest year after year. Its tart stalks can be used in a variety of recipes, from pies to jams. Rhubarb plants are easy to grow and can thrive in a range of climates.
3. Artichokes
Artichokes may seem like a luxury vegetable, but they are surprisingly easy to grow. Once established, artichoke plants can produce plenty of edible flower buds that can be steamed or roasted. These plants are not only delicious but also visually stunning in the garden.
4. Asparagus Pea
The asparagus pea, also known as the winged bean, is a versatile perennial that deserves a spot in your garden. It produces pods that can be harvested young and cooked like snap peas or left to mature and used as dried beans. This plant is not commonly found in grocery stores, so growing it yourself is a great way to enjoy its unique flavor.
5. Horseradish
Horseradish is a hardy herb that can add a spicy kick to your meals. It’s a perennial plant that can be harvested year after year. Simply dig up the roots, grate them, and use them to make your own horseradish sauce. This plant is also great for attracting beneficial insects to your garden.
6. Jerusalem Artichokes
Jerusalem artichokes, also known as sunchokes, are a type of sunflower that produces edible tubers. These tubers have a nutty, sweet flavor and can be used in soups, stews, or roasted as a side dish. Jerusalem artichokes are easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions.
7. Sea Kale
Sea kale is a perennial vegetable that grows well in coastal regions. Its tender shoots can be harvested in the spring and used in salads or cooked as a side dish. Sea kale is not commonly found in supermarkets, making it a unique addition to your garden.
8. Lovage
Lovage is a perennial herb that has a flavor similar to celery. Its leaves can be used in salads, soups, or as a seasoning. Lovage plants can grow quite tall, so make sure to provide them with enough space to thrive.
9. Good King Henry
Good King Henry is a lesser-known perennial green that deserves more attention. Its tender shoots can be cooked like spinach or added to salads for a unique flavor. This plant is not only delicious but also a great source of vitamins and minerals.
10. Egyptian Walking Onions
Egyptian walking onions, also known as tree onions, are a perennial vegetable that produces small onion bulbs on top of tall stems. These bulbs can be replanted to grow more onions, hence the name “walking onions.” This plant is not only a great source of food but also a conversation starter in the garden.
11. Chives
Chives are a must-have herb in any kitchen garden. These easy-to-grow perennials can add a mild onion flavor to a variety of dishes. Chives are great for attracting bees and other pollinators to your garden.
12. Fennel
Fennel is a perennial herb that can add a unique flavor to your meals. Its feathery leaves can be used as a garnish, while the crunchy bulb can be used in salads or roasted as a side dish. Fennel plants are also great for attracting beneficial insects to your garden.
13. Mint
Mint is a fast-growing perennial herb that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you want to add a refreshing twist to your drinks or enhance the flavor of your desserts, mint is a versatile herb that won’t disappoint. Just make sure to plant it in containers to prevent it from taking over your garden.
14. Perennial Onions
Perennial onions, such as the Welsh onion and the perennial bunching onion, can provide you with a continuous supply of green onions year after year. These onions are great for adding a mild onion flavor to your dishes or as a garnish.
15. Sorrel
Sorrel is a leafy green that has a tart, lemony flavor. Its leaves can be used in salads, soups, or cooked as a side dish. Sorrel plants are easy to grow and can tolerate a range of soil conditions.
16. Raspberry
Raspberries are a delicious fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of recipes. These perennial plants produce fruit year after year, making them a great addition to any garden. There are many different varieties of raspberries to choose from, so you can find one that suits your taste.
17. Blackberry
Blackberries are another perennial fruit that can provide you with a sweet harvest year after year. These plants can be trained to grow on trellises or left to sprawl naturally. Blackberries are great for eating fresh, making jams, or baking into pies.
18. Strawberry
Strawberries are a favorite among gardeners for their sweet flavor and versatility. These perennial plants can be planted in containers or in the ground and will produce fruit year after year. There are also everbearing varieties that can provide you with multiple harvests throughout the growing season.
19. Gooseberry
Gooseberries are a tangy fruit that can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and pies. These perennial shrubs produce fruit year after year and can tolerate a range of soil conditions. Gooseberries are also rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
20. Currant
Currants are small, tart berries that are packed with flavor. They can be eaten fresh, used in desserts, or made into delicious jams. Currant plants are easy to grow and can produce a bountiful harvest year after year.
21. Mulberry
Mulberries are sweet, juicy berries that can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes. These trees are hardy and can thrive in a range of soil conditions. Mulberries are also a favorite among birds, so make sure to protect your harvest from feathered thieves!
22. Pawpaw
Pawpaw is a tropical fruit tree that can be grown in certain regions. Its creamy, custard-like flesh has a unique flavor that is often compared to a combination of banana, mango, and melon. Pawpaw trees are a great addition to any garden, as they are not only productive but also visually appealing.
23. Fig
Figs are a delicious fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or dried. These trees are well suited for Mediterranean climates but can also be grown in containers. Figs are not only tasty but also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
24. Apple
Apples are a classic fruit tree that can provide you with a harvest year after year. There are many different varieties to choose from, each with its own unique flavor profile. Apple trees require a bit more care than some other perennial plants, but the reward is well worth it.
25. Pear
Pears are a sweet and juicy fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or cooked in a variety of dishes. These trees are hardy and can produce a bountiful harvest year after year. Pears are not only tasty but also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
26. Cherry
Cherries are a beloved fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of recipes. There are sweet cherries and tart cherries, each with its own unique flavor. Cherry trees are a great addition to any garden and can provide you with a beautiful display of blossoms in the spring.
27. Apricot
Apricots are a sweet and tangy fruit that can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes. These trees are well suited for warmer climates but can also be grown in containers. Apricots are not only delicious but also a good source of vitamins A and C.
28. Peach
Peaches are a juicy and flavorful fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of desserts. These trees are well suited for warmer climates and require a bit more care compared to some other perennial plants. But the taste of a homegrown peach is something that store-bought ones just can’t match.
29. Plum
Plums are a sweet and juicy fruit that can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes. These trees are hardy and can produce a bountiful harvest year after year. There are many different varieties of plums to choose from, each with its own unique flavor.
30. Nectarine
Nectarines are a delicious fruit that is a close relative of the peach. These trees require similar care and can provide you with a sweet harvest year after year. Nectarines are not only tasty but also a good source of vitamins A and C.
31. Quince
Quinces are a fragrant fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes, from jams to desserts. These trees are hardy and can tolerate a range of soil conditions. Quinces are not commonly found in grocery stores, making them a unique addition to your garden.
32. Persimmon
Persimmons are a sweet and flavorful fruit that can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of recipes. These trees are well suited for warmer climates and can provide you with a bountiful harvest year after year. Persimmons are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
33. Pomegranate
Pomegranates are a tropical fruit that can be grown in certain regions. These trees produce juicy arils that are packed with antioxidants. Pomegranates are not only delicious but also visually stunning in the garden.
Conclusion
Growing your own food is not only a practical skill but also a rewarding one. By incorporating perennial plants into your garden, you can ensure a continuous supply of food year after year. From asparagus to pomegranates, there are plenty of options to choose from. Start small with a few plants that interest you and gradually expand your garden as your confidence grows. Remember to provide your plants with the care they need, such as regular watering and pruning. With a little patience and effort, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor for years to come.
My 2 Cents
Perennial plants are the gift that keeps on giving. By incorporating these 33 plants into your garden, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh produce year after year. Not only will you save money on groceries, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing exactly where your food comes from. Perennial plants require less maintenance than annuals, saving you time and effort in the long run. Whether you have a large backyard or a small balcony, there are options for everyone. So, why not give perennial gardening a try and experience the joy of self-sustainability firsthand? Happy gardening!
