Gardening Ideas Fruit, Vegetable, & Herb Gardens Vegetables 7 Perennial Vegetables You Can Enjoy For Seasons To Come, According To An Expert They just keep coming back for more. By Patricia Shannon Patricia Shannon Patricia Shannon gives how-to content a can-do attitude, sharing her knowledge and research on housekeeping, decorating, gardening, etiquette, beauty, and more. She has been writing and editing lifestyle content for more than a decade. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Published on June 19, 2024 Close Photo: Kathrin Ziegler/Getty Images Growing perennial vegetables can mean longer harvest periods, less maintenance once established, and even improved soil structure. But selecting the best ones for your grow zone and conditions is key. “When selecting perennial vegetables for your garden, consider factors such as climate compatibility, space availability, and personal taste preferences,” suggests Brad Addy, greenhouse and QC manager, Park Seed. He says you’ll want to choose varieties that will thrive in your growing conditions—specifically keeping in mind the amount of space you’re working with as some perennial veggies are vigorous spreaders. 13 Easiest Vegetables To Grow In The Garden From artichokes to chives, and rhubarb to leeks, these are the perennial vegetables you should consider adding to your home garden. Brad Addy is the greenhouse and QC manager at Park Seed. Benefits Of Planting Perennial Vegetables Instead of opting for a one-and-done harvest, perennials come back year after year—no replanting required. This comes with some benefits, Addy says. “Perennial vegetables often have deep root systems that help prevent soil erosion and improve soil structure, making them environmentally sustainable garden choices,” he explains. “Also, they typically require less water and fertilizer than annual vegetables because of their established root systems and longevity.” You’ll also benefit from less maintenance than annual vegetables once established and longer harvest seasons, which means more time to enjoy your garden’s bounty. 10 Fast-Growing Perennials That Will Fill Your Garden In A Flash 01 of 07 Asparagus fhm/Getty Images Botanical Name: Asparagus officinalisSun Exposure: Full sunSoil Type: Moist, sandy, well-drainedSoil pH: Neutral If you’re looking for a variety that can stick around your garden for decades, asparagus is one to consider. Addy also says they’ll be one of the first vegetables in your garden ready for harvesting come spring. “Its spear-like shoots are enjoyed for their delicate flavor and versatility in cooking,” he adds. 02 of 07 Artichoke Kathrin Ziegler/Getty Images Botanical Name: Cynara cardunculusSun Exposure: Full sunSoil Type: Moist, fertile, well-drainedSoil pH: Tolerate acid, alkaline, or neutral soil “This crop is part of the thistle family and produces large, attractive perennial vegetable plants,” says Addy. The unopened flower bud is the edible portion. They can be used in a variety of dishes but look just as beautiful when piled high in a centerpiece bowl awaiting their big culinary moment. 03 of 07 Green Onions Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography/Getty Images Botanical Name: Allium fistulosumSun Exposure: Full sunSoil Type: Well drainedSoil pH: Slightly acid to neutral Not all green onions are perennials. Addy says to look for varieties such as Egyptian onions and fall-planted bunching types as they will continue producing new stems after some are harvested. Their green tops that are prized for their mild, oniony flavor. 04 of 07 Chives Jasenka Arbanas/Getty Images Botanical Name: Allium schoenoprasumSun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeSoil Type: Rich, well-drainedSoil pH: Slightly acidic “Chives are known for their beautiful purple flower clusters that appear in the summer, adding a pop of color to your garden,” says Addy. This perennial herb which belongs to the onion family produces thin, hallow blades that look similar to grass blades. Their delicate onion flavor with a hint of garlic is a staple for kitchen gardens. 05 of 07 Rhubarb coldsnowstorm/Getty Images Botanical Name: Rheum x cultorumSun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeSoil Type: Well-drainedSoil pH: Slightly acidic “Ideally grown as a perennial in zones 6 and cooler, it can also be grown as an annual in the cool season of warmer climates,” says Addy. “The plant dies back after the first frost but reemerges in early spring.” Rhubarb thrives in cool climates where it can produce harvests for up to 20 years but, be warned: The leaves are toxic, so only use the stalks for cooking. 06 of 07 Leeks Oscar Wong/Getty Images Botanical Name: Allium ampeloprasumSun Exposure: Full sun to partial shadeSoil Type: Rich, well-drainedSoil pH: Slightly acidic According to Addy, while typically grown as annuals, leeks can be left in the ground in mild climates which should result in new shoots. “The plant can tolerate light frost and, in suitable conditions, regrow year after year,” he says. With the proper care and conditions leeks should provide a continuous harvest. 07 of 07 Watercress Ali Majdfar/Getty Images Botanical Name: Nasturtium officinaleSun Exposure: Full sunSoil Type: Rich, wetSoil pH: Neutral “Watercress thrives in cool, flowing water and can grow year-round in suitable conditions,” says Addy. They can tolerate a moderate level of frost and still produce fresh leaves from season to season. If you’re growing in soil, rather than water, look for a heavily shaded location with very moist soil. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit