This post is all about vegetable garden plants.
A vegetable garden is not only a great way to grow your own fresh and healthy produce, but it can also be a relaxing and rewarding hobby. There are a wide variety of vegetables that can be grown in a garden, each with its own unique flavor and nutritional benefits.
From the traditional favorites like tomatoes and cucumbers, to the more unique and lesser-known vegetables like salsify and kohlrabi, there is something for everyone.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the most popular and delicious vegetable garden plants, their nutritional benefits, and how to grow them. So, whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, read on to discover the best vegetable garden plants to grow.
20 Vegetable Garden Plants
1. Salsify
Salsify, also known as oyster plant, is a root vegetable that has a long, white root that resembles a parsnip. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, similar to a combination of oyster and artichoke, and can be eaten raw or cooked.
It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and potassium. Salsify is a cool-season crop, and should be planted in the fall for a harvest the following spring. It grows best in well-drained soil and full sun.
It is a versatile vegetable and can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. It can also be used as a substitute for parsnips or carrots in recipes.
2. Melons
Melons are a warm-season crop that comes in a wide variety of colors and flavors, including cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon. They are known for their sweet and juicy flesh and are a great source of hydration and vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A and antioxidants.
Melons require a long, warm growing season and need a fertile and well-drained soil. They also need to be spaced well apart to allow room for their large leaves and tendrils. They are a bit tricky to grow and need consistent moisture and protection from pests and diseases.
The key to growing great melons is to choose a variety that is well-suited to your climate and to provide them with the right growing conditions. Melons can be trained to grow on a trellis or a cage for ease of harvesting and to save space in the garden.
3. Celeriac
Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a root vegetable that is grown for its bulbous root. It has a slightly nutty and earthy flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked.
It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and potassium. Celeriac is a cool-season crop, and should be planted in the spring for a harvest in the fall. It grows best in well-drained soil and full sun.
It is a versatile vegetable and can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. It can also be grated and used as a salad ingredient or a garnish.
4. Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a unique and delicious vegetable that is a member of the cruciferous family. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked.
It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C and Vitamin B6. Kohlrabi is a cool-season crop, and should be planted in the spring for a harvest in the summer or fall. It grows best in well-drained soil and full sun.
It is a versatile vegetable and can be used in a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and casseroles. It can also be grated and used as a salad ingredient or a garnish.
5. Tomatillos
Tomatillos are a unique and delicious addition to any vegetable garden. They are a relative of the tomato and are used to make green salsa and other Mexican dishes. They have a slightly tangy and fruity flavor.
Tomatillos are a warm-season crop and should be planted in the spring for a harvest in the summer or fall. They grow best in well-drained soil and full sun.
They are a bit tricky to grow and need consistent moisture and protection from pests and diseases. Tomatillos can be trained to grow on a trellis or a cage for ease of harvesting and to save space in the garden.
6. Yams
Yams are a root vegetable that are closely related to sweet potatoes, but have a different texture and flavor. They have a drier and starchier texture compared to sweet potatoes and have a nuttier and sweeter taste.
They can come in a variety of colors, such as white, purple and yellow. They are a great source of carbohydrates, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6 and potassium. Yams can be eaten boiled, fried, mashed, or roasted. They are a staple food in many African and Caribbean countries, and are also popular in Asia and South America.
They have a long storage life and can be stored for several months. They are a warm-season crop and require a long growing season to mature. They are also known for their medicinal properties and can be used to treat various ailments.
7. Rutabaga
Rutabaga is a root vegetable that is a cross between a turnip and a cabbage. It has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor and is a great source of Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
It is a cool-season crop that should be planted in the fall for a harvest the following spring. They also have a long storage life, so you can enjoy fresh rutabagas for several months.
8. Shallots
Shallots are a type of onion that is similar to garlic in flavor and appearance. They have a slightly sweeter and milder taste than regular onions and are often used as a substitute for garlic in cooking. They are easy to grow and can be planted in the fall for a harvest the following summer.
9. Sorrel
Sorrel is a perennial herb that is known for its tangy and lemony flavor. It is often used in salads, soups, and sauces.
It is easy to grow, and comes in a wide variety of colors and shapes. They also have a short growing season, so you can enjoy fresh sorrel all season long.
10. Watermelon
Watermelon is a warm-season crop that is a delicious and refreshing fruit. It is a great source of hydration and contains Vitamin C, Vitamin A and antioxidants.
They are easy to grow, and come in a wide variety of colors and flavors. They also have a long growing season, so you can enjoy fresh watermelon for several months.
11. Fennel
Fennel is a herb that is used for both its bulb and its seeds. The bulb has a licorice-like flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked.
The seeds are used as a spice and have a distinct anise flavor. They are easy to grow, and come in a wide variety of colors and shapes. They also have a long growing season, so you can enjoy fresh fennel for several months.
12. Endive
Endive is a leafy green that belongs to the chicory family. It has a slightly bitter flavor and a crisp texture. It is often used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
It is easy to grow, and comes in a wide variety of colors and shapes. They also have a long growing season, so you can enjoy fresh endive for several months.
13. Parsley
Parsley is a herb that is known for its bright green leaves and its fresh, mild flavor. It is often used as a garnish or as a seasoning in a variety of dishes.
It is easy to grow and can be planted multiple times throughout the growing season.
14. Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a unique and delicious addition to any vegetable garden. They are a member of the cruciferous family like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage and are known for their nutty and slightly bitter taste.
They are easy to grow, and come in a wide variety of colors and shapes. They also have a long growing season, so you can enjoy fresh Brussels sprouts for several months.