Perennial Plants: A Guide to Growing Edibles That Keep on Giving
What Are Perennials?
Perennials are plants that live for more than two years, unlike annuals, which must be replanted each year, and biennials, which live for only two years. Once established, perennials can provide years of enjoyment with minimal maintenance.
Benefits of Growing Perennials
- Save time and money: Perennials eliminate the need for annual seed purchases and planting.
- Reduced maintenance: Established perennials are more drought-tolerant and less susceptible to pests and diseases.
- Increased biodiversity: Perennials attract pollinators and other beneficial insects, creating a healthier ecosystem in your garden.
Drawbacks of Growing Perennials
- Delayed gratification: Many perennials take several years to reach maturity and produce a significant harvest.
- Potential for invasiveness: Some perennials can spread aggressively, becoming difficult to control.
- Maintenance: Perennials still require regular fertilizing and pest control, although less frequently than annuals.
Perennial Herbs
Perennial herbs offer a wide range of culinary and medicinal uses. Some popular perennial herbs include:
- Basil (African Blue or East Indian for perennial varieties)
- Chives
- Fennel
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Horseradish
- Lavender
- Lemon balm
- Mint
- Onions (potato onions, shallots, Egyptian onions, Japanese bunching onions, Welsh onions, Chinese leeks)
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
Perennial Vegetables
Perennial vegetables provide a steady supply of fresh produce throughout the growing season. Some popular perennial vegetables include:
- Artichoke (Jerusalem or Sunchokes)
- Asparagus
- Broccoli (Nine Star or Purple Cape varieties)
- Radicchio
- Rhubarb
- Spinach (Ceylon, Sissoo, or New Zealand varieties)
- Sweet potato
- Tree cabbages/tree collards
- Watercress
- Wasabi
- Yams
Perennial Fruits
Perennial fruits offer a variety of flavors and nutritional benefits. Some popular perennial fruits include:
- Apples
- Apricots
- Avocado
- Blackberries
- Cherries
- Currants
- Dates
- Fig
- Goji berries
- Huckleberries
- Grapes
- Kiwi
- Lemons (must be brought indoors in colder climates)
- Limes
- Nectarines
- Olives
- Oranges (must be brought indoors in colder climates)
- Peaches
- Pears
- Persimmon
- Plums
- Raspberries
- Strawberries (replant every three years to maintain vigor)
Perennial Nuts
Perennial nuts are a valuable source of healthy fats and protein. Some popular perennial nuts include:
- Almond
- Chestnut
- Hazelnut
- Macadamia
- Pecan
- Pistachio
- Walnut
Tips for Growing Perennials
- Choose the right plants for your climate: Research the USDA hardiness zones for your area and select perennials that are known to thrive in your climate.
- Prepare the soil: Perennials prefer well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or manure before planting.
- Plant at the right time: The best time to plant perennials is in the spring or fall, when the soil is cool and moist.
- Water regularly: Perennials need regular watering, especially during the first year after planting.
- Fertilize regularly: Perennials benefit from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Control pests and diseases: Monitor your perennials for pests and diseases and take appropriate action to control them.
- Divide and replant: Some perennials may need to be divided and replanted every few years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.
Growing Perennials in Your Garden
Incorporating perennials into your garden is a smart way to save time and money while enjoying a continuous supply of fresh produce. To get started, consider the following tips:
- Plan your garden: Decide where you want to plant your perennials and choose plants that suit your climate and space constraints.
- Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility.
- Plant your perennials: Follow the planting instructions for each plant, spacing them according to their mature size.
- Water and fertilize regularly: Water your perennials regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Fertilize them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Control pests and diseases: Monitor your perennials for pests and diseases and take appropriate action to control them.
- Enjoy your harvest: With proper care, your perennial plants will provide years of enjoyment and bountiful harvests.