Gardening can be done with minimal effort if you are selective in choosing crops for their resilience, adaptability and what is best suited for your region and climate. The soil type plays a vital role in determining the outcome of what is planted. Understanding this science is a functional key for growing vegetables successfully with minimal effort. In many countries around the world. Including countries like Canada and various parts of the USA our understanding of the different seasons and ways to adapt to it plays a vital role in growing and harvesting crops.
We all love to consume healthy produce from any garden especially home grown. It is such a joy to us when we are visited by our neighbours or family members who bring a bunch of produce grown and nurtured in their own back yard. I always notice that the vegetables seem to taste better and last for a longer period that the store-bought ones. Perhaps it is just the freshness of the product, or it could be that it is grown naturally without any artificial pesticides.
Many of us love to harvest and consume fresh produce and some spent time going out of their way to find a local market to find these vegetables. However, it is not always convenient for everyone. Having a garden demands some care which can include watering, weeding and other issues to let the garden become productive. In this guide we will explore 15 vegetables that are easy to grow and practically take care of themselves without you having to do a lot of work. Added to this post will include some bonus crops for the adventurous gardener who may be encouraged to add more as a bonus. These are easy to grow crops, tolerant of soil conditions and can encourage a beginner to start a garden even if this is your first time.
Radishes
Those pink vegetables that enhance you salad are one of the easiest vegetables to grow. They can be grown in a container or even a small space requiring not much watering or weed control and even pest control. You should notice the seeds begin to shoot after a few days of planting even though they require no fertilizer to germinate. These crops yield below the soil and will need to be harvested quickly to avoid them becoming too hard. One of the best ways is to plant them at different intervals in the garden so you will be supplied with them all season. One plant can yield enough to supply your family and your neighbours. What is great about these vegetables is they are not particular about the soil they are in and will grow in any soil. An easy way to germinate them is to scatter the seeds in loose soil and watch how quickly they germinate with just a little water.
Zucchini
The perfect crop to plant especially if you are fond of baking zucchini bread and other delicacies. It requires a warm and fertile soil but once it is planted it will produce an abundance lasting you and your family throughout the summer months. It requires water and full sunshine. In order to produce fruit, the plant will need pollination. They can be done by hand or plant crops that attract bees to help with its production. A good fertilizer is recommended that is well balanced. Grow this crop on a trellis or a fence. Harvesting the fruit early is also best in this way you will be able to avoid fruits that become too mature hindering the taste. Pick the fruit frequently and this will encourage others to grow as you continue to harvest for its duration.
Swiss Chard
This is a product from the Mediterranean irrespective of its name which makes a very interesting conversation why the word Swiss is used to describe the product. The name derived from a Swiss botanist and seemed to be used by the Dutch to make the distinction between the French Spinach varieties. So, we are stuck using that name. They are part of the beet family, and this vegetable can tolerate both cold and warm temperatures. It can be sewn directly into the garden and requires a well-drained soil and a good fertilizer to maintain its good health. This vegetables will reproduce as you harvest them frequently. A good way to boost your vitamins A, C, K and minerals like magnesium also suppling you with fiber. The best way to keep the plant with moisture is to use mulch which will also help with weed control. Harvesting can begin as early as when the plant is just 6 inches depending on your own choice.
Kale
An amazing superfood that is packed with vitamins like B6, K, C, A, fiber and other nutrients which many enjoy in smoothies or salads. This hardy vegetable loves organic matter. If you are thinking which plant needs your organic compost this would be the plant to feed. The seeds can be sewn directly into the ground or if you want a quick harvest, you can start them indoors for cooler climates. It is one of the most versatile vegetable that can survive in cool weather and even in the snow. They will need to be placed in a soil that is well-drained. Once the leaves are ready, start harvesting and expect them to be replenished. It will continue to produce all season in abundance. Be mindful that leafy green vegetables sometimes attract pest which is common.
Garlic
A good way to continue the garden into winter is by planting garlic. It is suitable for an Autumn season, and you can leave them into the ground and expect to harvest in the summer. By choosing the hardneck varieties will ensure their winter survival and the garden continues to produce while most gardens lie dormant. Garlic is rich in many nutrients like vitamin C and calcium and has been used in some traditional medicine for colds and other ailments. It requires a well-drained soil and will do well in one that is rich with compost. It needs basic watering, caring and some weeding as well. Once they are ready you should notice the tops begin to dry. Garlic can be used for companion gardening to remove pest naturally but some vegetable like beans is not advisable. It is one of those vegetables that you place in the ground and practically forget about out until it is harvest time especially over the cold winter months.
Green Beans (Bush Variety)
They are compact and as the name suggest bushy plants that don’t grow very tall but will yield so much for the garden. Planting this vegetable enhances the garden by adding nitrogen and also help other plants to grow well especially if they are being used as a companion plant. They will not need to be staked or placed on a trellis because the plant sustains itself. It is ideal for small space gardens and should be planted where it will not overshadow the other vegetables and prevent sunlight from reaching them. It is easy to grow and disease resistant making it ideal for a first-time gardener. It requires basic watering and if you space is too small you can also grow them in containers and placed in your preferred location. You can also plant them every 2-3 weeks to allow the garden to continue to produce.
Lettuce (Leaf Types)
It is a quick growing plant that can be harvested at any time. That makes it an easy choice for beginners. It prefers a partial shade environment with a well-drained soil. Too much sunlight will wilt the leaves and making the survival minimal. It is best in a raised garden or containers. There must be adequate air to be able to penetrate the leaves for healthy growth. It is prone to slugs and snail which enjoy their crunch out of these leaves. A controlled environment can be considered to avoid these creatures from overtaking your plants like a green house or a covered container with sufficient air flow. It does not require much space making it ideal for small spaces or for growing indoors.
Arugula
Adding this vegetable to your salads will enhance the flavour giving it a bit of peppery taste. It is one of the quick growing leafy greens that you can harvest in approximately 3 weeks which gives you a quick turnaround from the time of planting. Its nutritional value includes vitamin K, C, calcium and other nutrients. Plant them directly into the garden or use containers with partial sunlight. They require nutrient rich soil which is well-drained. The leaves are best eaten as an early harvest for the best taste.
Turnip
Not many are fond of this vegetable but can become enjoyable in soups and stews. It seems to works best when complimented with other dishes. If you haven’t tried it before a good way to start is to plant them in your garden and experiment with them. They are cold hardy edible root and leafy green vegetables which can be grown in poor soil. The soil should be well drained with compost and adequate sunshine. They don’t require much attention except to plant and water them. They are rich in vitamins C, iron and calcium. Sew directly into the grown and wait for them to grow and harvest.
Beets
An easy to grow vegetable that can grow without pests. It does not require much care except to be placed in a well-drained fertile soil. Adding compost material will enhance the growth. It requires sunlight and some moisture. The leaves are edible and can be placed in salads or cooked. After planting you can harvest the crop in 2 months. Beets are also great in a sweet brine and kept during the cold months. They also contain vitamins A, K, C and other nutritional value.
Peas ( Bush or Dwarf Varieties )
The dwarf varieties are better suited to grow from the spring season into fall. They can be considered a cool season crop. The other varieties are better grown in the summer where there is much more sunshine and a warmer soil needed to enhance their growth to begin its production quickly. For small space gardens the dwarf peas are idea growing up to 24 inches without support. Sunshine is need for its grown and a well-drained soil. They will grow with a with natural compost material when planted directly into the ground. Peas are great contributes for nitrogen in the soil and should be considered in any garden. This permits other plants to thrive especially when used in companion gardening also keeping the soil moist will allow for a better yield.
Perennial Onions (Egyptian Walking Onions )
These onions will practically last a lifetime because they have the ability to grow where other onion varieties have failed. Once they are planted, they will return each year. They produce bulbs at the top of the stalk which falls and germinates to create new plants. They can tolerate drought conditions and poor soil. They are known to be cold hard especially in countries like Canada and other places which experience extremely cold temperatures. A well-drained soil is best including either sun or partial sun. For the winter months adding mulch is recommended. You may want to consider growing them in a controlled space to avoid overcrowding the other plants in the garden.
Spinach
A vegetable filled with nutritional value. It contains vitamin A, C, K, iron, calcium and other essential nutrients for your health. It is fast growing and expect to harvest them frequently. Although they prefer cool weather they will survive in warm temperatures. Place them in partial shade and they will do well. The soil needs to be kept moist but avoid overwatering and a soggy soil. Add compost which is a good option to keep the ground moist. They can be grown in containers which helps with smaller spaces. Spinach does not require any specific soil to grow which makes them an easy choice for the garden. They will need to be checked regularly as they can attract pests like spider mites.
Mustard Greens
Let spring begin with this vegetable used as a great addition for soups, stews and add that peppery flavour to your salads. They contain vitamins like A, C, and other nutrients. This vegetable is easy to grow either for early spring or fall within 20-40 days you can begin to harvest them. Place them in a well-drained soil and add compost to the soil to build its fertility and help with the drainage. They will need a moist soil but not overwatering to create a soggy environment. They are an easy addition to the garden because minimal care is need. They can attract pest like aphids and a good way to avoid this is to apply the companion gardening approach by adding marigolds or garlic which will help to deter these pests.
Rhubarb
A colourful perennial plant that once it is establish will return each year. Only the stalks are edible as the leaves are toxic. They are used in dishes like pies, jams and other deserts due to their tart flavour. It is recommended not to harvest the plant in the fist year. The second-year harvest 1-2 stalks and the third year don’t exceed more that 1/3 of the plant. This can be considered more of a long-term plant in the beginning of its cycle. It a source of vitamins C, calcium and potassium. Recommended. For cool climate with sunlight. Plant in early spring or Autumn and adding compost and mulch will help in assisting the plant for its growth and development.
If you are feeling adventurous and have the garden space these herbs add a great addition because they generally include being drought-resistant, pest resistant and once they are establish will keep producing giving you many harvest during its lifetime. Mostly what will be requires is a well-drained soil added with compost to the soil helping to build its fertility.
Chives
A part of the mint family, needs a well-drained soil to keep it happy. It needs full sunshine and are best grown in containers as they can produce overcrowding. They are low maintenance.
Mint
Place this herb into a container or a designated space because it will grow in abundance and take over your garden space. It requires full to partial sunshine with regular pruning. It is an easy herb for any beginner who may be thinking they don’t have a green thumb.
Oregano
A container is recommended for this herb which and needs to be kept in a well-drained soil. Pruning is essential for this plant to remain healthy. Don’t overwater as they do not like too much water.
Growing your own vegetables with minimal effort can be done by choosing to invest in low-drought and disease-resistant plants. Growing perennials are best as they will often self-seed and return each year allowing you to grow them without much attention. Place plants with similar needs close together like ones that require lots of sunshine. Raised garden beds and containers help to create a controlled environment which makes the soil easier to maintain. Mulching offers added protection and helps to conserve water allowing you to spend less time taking care of their watering needs. It is always best to start small and gradually introduce other vegetables to the garden. It is from these experiments that you will be encouraged to gradually expand the space to create an oasis that is productive.
Image generated with the help of AI using ChatGPT by OpenAI.