6 Crops That Will Transform Your Garden Forever

Are you tired of buying produce at the grocery store and wondering if it’s truly fresh?

What if you could grow your crops right in your backyard?

With these six game-changing crops, including companion plants, eggplants, carrots, and green beans, you can create a self-sufficient garden that will transform the way you think about food.

First on the list are staple crops like grain corn and wheat. Not only do they provide an abundant harvest, but they’re also versatile and can be used for flour, meal, or even popcorn.

For season crops, heirloom tomatoes are a book-worthy crop that offers a range of flavors and colors that will impress any home chef.

And let’s not forget about carrots, a nutritious and delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed raw or cooked in various dishes.

But what about those with limited space? Don’t worry – there are options for you too! Microgreens and container-grown strawberries are perfect for small gardens or balconies.

And if you’re interested in companion planting, check out a companion planting chart to see which plants grow well together, like eggplants and cabbage.

For those who want to try something truly unique, consider growing purple potatoes or yard-long beans.

In this video, we’ll explore each of these crops in more detail and show you how easy it is to start your garden today.

Whether you’re interested in companion planting or growing potato plants, you’ll find all the information you need here.

Say goodbye to store-bought produce and hello to fresh, home-grown food with the addition of green beans to your garden.

Last update on 2025-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Benefits of Growing Perennial Vegetables in Your Garden:

Low-Maintenance Perennial Vegetables

Growing perennial vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, can save you time and effort because they require less maintenance than annual vegetables.

Unlike season crops that need to be replanted every year, perennials come back year after year. They establish deep roots, which make them more drought-tolerant and less susceptible to pests and diseases.

Companion planting with other companion plants can also help these vegetables thrive with little care from the gardener.

Some examples of low-maintenance perennial vegetables include:

• Asparagus
• Rhubarb
• Artichokes
• Horseradish
• Jerusalem artichokes (also known as sunchokes)
• Sorrel

Continuous Harvest Year After Year

Another benefit of growing perennial vegetables is that you can enjoy a continuous harvest year after year, especially when paired with companion planting.

With season crops like beans, a garden planner can help you plan which perennials to grow alongside them for maximum yield. Once they are established, perennials will produce food for you every year without fail.

Some examples of perennial vegetables that provide a continuous harvest include season crops, companion planting, beans, and cabbage.

• Chives
• Garlic
• Shallots
• Walking onions (also known as Egyptian onions)
• Kale (some varieties are perennial)
• Swiss chard (some varieties are perennial)

Boost Soil Health and Biodiversity

Perennial vegetables also offer benefits beyond their low-maintenance nature and continuous harvests. They can help boost soil health by establishing deep root systems that break up compacted soil and improve drainage.

Many perennials attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which help pollinate other plants in your garden.

Companion planting with seasonal crops like beans can also increase the yield of your food garden.

Top 3 Perennial Vegetables to Add to Your Garden:

Asparagus: A delicious and nutritious addition to any meal

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that’s easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. It’s also one of the season crops and packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your food.

However, if you’re looking for other options, you can also try growing beans and potatoes, which are equally easy to cultivate and nutritious.

To grow asparagus, you must prepare the soil by adding compost or manure. Then, plant the crowns (the part of the plant that produces shoots) in trenches about 6-8 inches deep.

Cover the crowns with soil and water them well. Consider companion planting with beans for added nutrients and pest control.

Use a garden planner to ensure you season crops properly.

It may take up to three years for your asparagus plants to produce a full harvest, but once they do, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh asparagus all season long.

To harvest asparagus, wait until the spears are about 6-8 inches tall and snap them off at ground level. If you’re interested in companion planting, consider planting beans alongside your asparagus.

It’s also helpful to use a garden planner to track when to plant and harvest your crops, which typically takes several weeks.

Asparagus, beans, and potatoes can be eaten raw or cooked and are great additions to food such as salads, stir-fries, omelets, and more.

Garlic is also a perfect seasoning for these dishes.

Asparagus, beans, and potatoes are high in fiber, vitamins C and K, folate, and antioxidants.

Rhubarb: Perfect for pies, jams, and sauces all season long

Rhubarb is another easy-to-grow perennial vegetable that’s perfect for companion planting with potatoes, beans, and nasturtium. It has a tart flavor pairs well with sweet fruits like strawberries or raspberries.

To grow rhubarb, you’ll need to plant crowns in well-draining soil in an area with plenty of sunlight. Rhubarb prefers cooler temperatures and will not do well in hot climates.

Consider companion planting with season crops like beans to maximize food production.

Once your rhubarb plants are established (usually after two years), you can begin harvesting stalks by pulling them out of the ground at their base. Be sure not to cut them off with a knife since this can damage the crown.

Rhubarb is a great companion planting for seasonal crops like beans and corn.

Rhubarb, one of the seasonal crops, is high in vitamin K and fiber but low in calories. It’s also a good source of calcium, potassium, and manganese.

Companion planting with wheat can also benefit rhubarb growth, but corn is not recommended.

Artichokes: A unique and flavorful vegetable that’s easy to grow

Artichokes are a unique and flavorful perennial vegetable that’s easy to grow in the right conditions. They are a great addition to your season crops and can be planted with compatible companion planting like corn.

Artichokes are susceptible to aphids, so regular monitoring is necessary to keep them at bay. They require well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and regular watering.

To grow artichokes, you’ll need to start with seedlings or young plants since they can be difficult to grow from seed. Plant them in well-prepared soil about 3-4 feet apart.

Consider companion planting with corn to deter pests like aphids.

Artichokes, like corn, take about two years to produce a full harvest but will continue producing for several years after that.

Companion planting can help deter aphids from attacking artichokes.

To harvest artichokes, cut off the buds before they open into flowers. The buds can be cooked whole or stuffed with breadcrumbs, cheese, or other fillings.

Artichokes, known for their high fiber and antioxidant content, are nutritious and beneficial in companion planting.

They may help improve digestion and liver function while repelling aphids. Additionally, artichokes are low in calories and fat but high in vitamins C and K.

Last update on 2025-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Fruits for a Self-Sufficient Garden: Buy Once, Enjoy for Years

Apples: A Versatile Fruit That Can Be Used in Sweet or Savory Dishes

Apples are one of the most versatile fruits you can grow in your garden. They are great for snacking on their own and can also be used in various sweet and savory dishes.

If you’re into companion planting, consider growing apples alongside plants that can help ward off aphids. From apple pie to apple sauce, there are countless ways to enjoy this delicious fruit.

One of the best things about growing apples is that they can be paired with companion planting. Depending on the variety you choose, you can start harvesting apples as early as mid-summer and continue through the fall months.

And once you’ve harvested your apples, they can last for weeks or even months if stored properly.

If you’re looking to store your apples for an extended period of time, it’s important to keep them in a cool, dark place with good airflow.

Companion planting may also be considered to help deter pests and promote healthy growth. You may also want to consider investing in a food dehydrator or canning equipment to preserve your harvest even longer.

Blueberries: Packed with Antioxidants and Perfect for Snacking or Baking

Blueberries are another great fruit to grow in your garden if you’re looking for something that’s both delicious and healthy.

These little berries are packed with antioxidants and other nutrients, making them an ideal snack or ingredient in baked goods.

In addition, they can be a great companion planting option for other fruits and vegetables in your garden.

One of the best things about blueberries is that they’re relatively easy to grow. They prefer acidic soil and plenty of sunlight but otherwise don’t require much special care.

Companion planting with other acid-loving plants can also be beneficial for their growth.

And once they start producing fruit, you’ll have pounds and pounds of blueberries to enjoy throughout the summer season.

If you want to extend the life of your blueberry harvest, consider companion planting with other crops to improve soil quality and yield.

Also, freeze some of your berries to enjoy them all year round. Simply spread out your berries on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.

Strawberries: Easy-to-Grow Berries That Are Great for Desserts or as a Healthy Snack

Strawberries are another great fruit to grow in your garden if you’re looking for something easy to grow and delicious. Companion planting with other fruits and vegetables can benefit their growth and yield.

These sweet berries are perfect for desserts, but they also make a great healthy snack on their own.

One of the best things about strawberries is that they’re incredibly easy to grow. They don’t require much space and can even be grown in containers if you’re short on room.

Companion planting can also be used to enhance their growth. And once they start producing fruit, you’ll have fresh strawberries to enjoy for weeks on end.

If you want to get the most flavor out of your strawberries, it’s important to pick them at the right time. Wait until your berries are fully ripe before harvesting them, and consider companion planting to maximize their growth potential.

Try not to let them sit around for too long after picking.

Herbs That Keep on Giving: Perfect for Your Self-Sufficient Garden:

Basil: A Versatile Herb for Your Garden

Basil is a herb that should be in every garden. It’s easy to grow and adds flavor to many dishes, including pasta, salads, and more.

You can start basil from seed indoors or buy small plants from your local nursery. Basil prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.

In addition to being a tasty herb, basil also has some health benefits. It contains antioxidants that help protect against cell damage and inflammation.

Basil is also a great companion planting for tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables as it can repel pests and improve their growth.

Thyme: A Must-Have Herb for Meat Dishes

Thyme is another herb that should be in your garden if you enjoy cooking meat dishes. This herb has a unique flavor that adds depth to soups, stews, and roasted meats.

Thyme is also easy to grow from seed or small plants purchased at your local nursery. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Thyme is also a great companion planting option for other herbs and vegetables in your garden.

Rosemary: An Aromatic Herb for Roasted Meats

Rosemary is an aromatic herb that pairs well with roasted meats like lamb or chicken. It’s also great in bread dough or added to potatoes before roasting them in the oven.

Rosemary can be grown from seed indoors or purchased as small plants from your local nursery. This herb prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Regarding companion planting, rosemary is a great companion for beans, cabbage, and carrots.

Oregano: A Classic Herb for Italian Dishes

Oregano is a classic herb used in many Italian dishes, such as pizza sauce, pasta sauces, and marinades for grilled meats. It’s easy to grow from seed indoors or purchased as small plants at your local nursery.

Oregano prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. Companion planting with basil and parsley can also be beneficial for oregano growth.

Borage: An Edible Flower That Attracts Pollinators

Borage is an edible flower that looks beautiful and attracts pollinators to your garden. The leaves and flowers have a mild cucumber flavor that can be added to salads or used as a drink garnish.

Borage can be grown from seed indoors or planted directly in the ground. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Additionally, borage is a great companion plant for strawberries and tomatoes.

Nasturtium: An Edible Flower That Repels Aphids

Nasturtium is a beautiful edible flower and makes a great companion plant as it repels aphids from your garden. The leaves and flowers have a peppery flavor that can be added to salads or used as a garnish for dishes.

Nasturtium can be grown from seed indoors or planted directly in the ground. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Veggies That Keep on Producing: A Great Addition to Your Garden Plan:

Tomatoes:

Tomatoes are a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked in various recipes.

They are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance, making them a great addition to any vegetable garden. When planting tomato plants, choosing the right companion plants, such as basil, carrots, and marigolds is important.

These companion plants help deter pests and improve the growth of your tomato plants.

Some popular types of tomatoes include:

• Cherry tomatoes
• Beefsteak tomatoes
• Roma tomatoes

Zucchini:

Zucchini is a high-yielding vegetable perfect for grilling or sautéing.

It is easy to grow and requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners. Zucchini grows best in warm weather and plenty of sunlight.

When planting zucchini, it’s important to give them plenty of space to grow as they can take up a lot of room in your garden bed.

Additionally, zucchini makes a great companion plant for tomatoes and cucumbers.

Some popular types of zucchini include:

• Black Beauty Zucchini
• Golden Zucchini
• Ronde de Nice

Peppers:

Peppers add spice and color to any dish while being easy to grow.

They come in a variety of colors and sizes which make them an attractive addition to any vegetable garden. Peppers grow best in warm weather and well-draining soil.

When planting peppers, choosing the right companion plants, such as eggplants, beans, and peas is important.

Some popular types of peppers include:

• Bell peppers
• Jalapeno peppers
• Habanero peppers

When growing these veggies that keep on producing, you should keep some companion tips in mind.

1. Companion Planting: Choose the right companion plants for your vegetables, such as eggplants for pepper plants or pole beans for cucumbers.
2. Watering: Ensure you regularly water your vegetables, especially during hot and dry weather. Consider planting companion crops to help retain moisture in the soil.
3. Soil Quality: Ensure that your soil has proper drainage and is rich in nutrients to help your vegetables grow strong and healthy. Consider planting companion crops to improve soil health.
4. Seed Selection: Choose high-quality seeds for your vegetables and their companion plants to ensure a good yield.
5. Harvest your companion vegetables when they are ripe to encourage more growth.

Last update on 2025-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Plan for a Self-Sufficient Garden with Perennial Crops:

If you want to create a self-sufficient garden, incorporating companion perennial crops is a must. Unlike annual crops that need to be replanted every year, companion perennial crops come back year after year, providing a consistent source of food for your family.

Here are some tips on planning for a self-sufficient garden with companion perennial crops.

Consider the climate and soil type when choosing crops

The first step in planning your self-sufficient garden is to choose the right crops. When selecting plants, it’s important to consider your climate and soil type.

Certain plants thrive in specific conditions, so it’s essential to do your research before making any decisions. It’s also important to consider companion planting, as certain plants can benefit from being grown together.

For example, if you live in an area with cold winters, you’ll want to choose hardy perennials like rhubarb or asparagus that can survive harsh weather conditions.

If you have sandy soil, you may want to consider planting drought-tolerant perennials like lavender or yarrow that make great companion plants.

Here are some companion options for different climates and soil types:

• Clay Soil: raspberries, blackberries, elderberries
• Acidic Soil: blueberries, cranberries
• Hot and Dry Climates: prickly pear cactus, agave
• Coastal Climates: sea kale, sea beet

Plan for crop rotation to maintain soil health

Crop rotation, along with companion planting, is an essential part of maintaining healthy soil in any garden.

By rotating your crops each season and planting companion plants, you prevent the buildup of pests and diseases that can damage your plants over time.

Rotating crops helps ensure that nutrients are replenished in the soil, while companion planting helps improve soil health and promote plant growth.

When planning your crop rotation schedule for perennial crops, remember that certain plants should not be planted near each other due to their nutrient needs or susceptibility to disease.

Companion planting can help to improve the health and yield of your crops.

For example:

• Do not plant tomatoes near potatoes, as they are not good companion plants due to their shared susceptibility to blight.
• Do not plant onions near asparagus due to their shared need for phosphorus.

Here is an example of a four-year crop rotation schedule:

Year 1: Legumes (beans, peas)

Year 2: Brassicas (cabbage, broccoli)

Year 3: Roots (carrots, beets)

Year 4: Perennials (asparagus, rhubarb)

Incorporate companion planting to maximize yields

Companion planting is the practice of planting different crops together that benefit each other in some way. For example, some plants attract beneficial insects that can help pollinate or control pests on neighboring plants.

Others have deep roots that can help break up compacted soil and improve drainage.

Consider using a garden planner and companion planting chart to incorporate companion planting into your self-sufficient garden plan.

Conclusion: Create a Sustainable and Productive Garden with These Game-Changing Crops

Incorporating perennial vegetables, fruits, herbs, and veggies that keep on producing is an excellent way to create a self-sufficient garden that will change how you approach gardening forever.

By adding these crops to your garden plan, you can save time and money while enjoying fresh produce year after year.

Growing perennial vegetables in your garden provides numerous benefits such as reducing soil erosion, improving soil structure, and increasing biodiversity.

Adding top-performing perennial vegetables like asparagus, rhubarb, and artichokes can also provide a steady supply of fresh produce without the need for replanting every year.

Fruits like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are perfect for a self-sufficient garden since they require minimal maintenance once established.

Growing herbs like basil, thyme, and mint can also provide endless harvests throughout the growing season.

Veggies that keep on producing, like tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini, are great additions to any garden plan since they continue to produce even after the initial harvest.

Planning for a self-sufficient garden with these game-changing crops requires careful consideration of factors such as space requirements and planting times.

Overall, incorporating these six crops into your garden plan is an excellent way to create a sustainable and productive garden that will change how you approach gardening forever.

Start planning today to enjoy fresh produce year after year!

FAQs

Q: Do I need special tools or equipment to grow these crops?

A: No special tools or equipment are required for growing these crops. Basic gardening tools such as shovels, rakes, and hoes will suffice.

Q: Are perennial vegetables more difficult to grow than annuals?

A: Perennial vegetables may require some extra attention during their establishment phase but once established they require less maintenance than annuals.

Q: How much space do I need to grow these crops?

A: Space requirements vary depending on the crop. Be sure to research each crop’s space requirements before planting.

Q: Can I grow these crops in containers?

A: Some of these crops can be grown in containers, but it is important to ensure that the container is large enough for the plant’s roots to grow and that it has adequate drainage.

Q: How long does it take for perennial vegetables to produce a harvest?

A: Perennial vegetables may take up to two years to establish before producing a harvest, but once established, they can provide a steady supply of fresh produce year after year.

Q: Are these crops resistant to pests and diseases?

A: While no crop is completely immune to pests and diseases, many of these crops have natural defenses against common garden pests and diseases. It is important to practice good garden hygiene and monitor your plants regularly for signs of pest or disease damage.

Q: Where can I find more information about growing these crops?

A: Numerous resources are available online and at your local library or gardening center. Be sure to research each crop thoroughly before planting.