When most people think of vegetable gardening, they picture sowing seeds in spring and pulling up plants at the end of summer. However, perennial vegetables challenge that norm by offering an eco-friendly, low-maintenance alternative. These hardy crops come back year after year, saving time, money, and effort while providing a reliable harvest.
Fall is the perfect season to plant many perennial vegetables, as cooler temperatures and moist soil create ideal conditions for establishing strong roots. Whether you’re a gardening newbie or a seasoned grower, adding these plants to your garden ensures a lasting source of fresh produce with minimal replanting.
Here are 10 perennial vegetables you can plant this fall to enjoy for years to come.
1. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Why Plant It?
Asparagus is one of the most rewarding perennials. Once established, it provides tender, flavorful spears every spring for decades.
Planting Tips:
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Dig trenches and plant crowns 8–10 inches deep, spacing them 12–18 inches apart.
- Add compost to encourage healthy growth.
Care:
Asparagus beds take about two to three years to mature but are well worth the wait. Keep weeds at bay and apply mulch for winter protection.
2. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
Why Plant It?
Rhubarb’s tart stalks are perfect for pies, jams, and sauces, and it’s nearly indestructible once established.
Planting Tips:
- Plant dormant crowns in fall, 4–6 inches deep, in rich, well-drained soil.
- Space plants about 3 feet apart, as rhubarb grows large.
Care:
Avoid harvesting stalks in the first year to allow the plant to establish itself. Cut off flower stalks to redirect energy to the roots.
3. Artichokes (Cynara scolymus)
Why Plant It?
Artichokes are stunning plants that yield delicious, nutty-flavored buds.
Planting Tips:
- In mild climates, fall is ideal for planting artichokes.
- Choose a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil.
- Space plants about 3 feet apart to accommodate their size.
Care:
Mulch around the base to insulate the roots in colder climates. Harvest buds before they fully open for the best flavor.
4. Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)
Why Plant It?
This spicy root vegetable is perfect for adding a kick to sauces and condiments, and it’s incredibly easy to grow.
Planting Tips:
- Plant root cuttings in loose, well-drained soil in a sunny spot.
- Bury roots at an angle, leaving the top slightly exposed.
Care:
Horseradish spreads rapidly, so plant it in a contained area or use barriers. Harvest roots in late fall for peak flavor.
5. Jerusalem Artichokes (Helianthus tuberosus)
Why Plant It?
Also known as sunchokes, these sunflower relatives produce edible tubers that are crunchy and nutty in flavor.
Planting Tips:
- Plant tubers 4–6 inches deep and 12–18 inches apart in full sun.
- Choose a location where they can spread without taking over other plants.
Care:
Jerusalem artichokes are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Harvest tubers in late fall or early winter.
6. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
Why Plant It?
Chives are a culinary staple that doubles as an ornamental plant with vibrant purple flowers.
Planting Tips:
- Sow seeds or plant bulbs in a sunny or partially shaded area.
- Space plants about 6–8 inches apart.
Care:
Chives are resilient and require minimal attention. Trim regularly to promote growth and prevent flowering.
7. Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
Why Plant It?
This tangy green is a great addition to soups, salads, and stews, offering a lemony flavor that’s both unique and refreshing.
Planting Tips:
- Plant seeds or transplants in well-drained soil with partial to full sunlight.
- Space plants 12–18 inches apart.
Care:
Sorrel is a fast grower and thrives with minimal care. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth.
8. Lovage (Levisticum officinale)
Why Plant It?
Lovage is a perennial herb that tastes like a stronger version of celery and is perfect for soups, stews, and salads.
Planting Tips:
- Sow seeds in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
- Space plants about 2–3 feet apart.
Care:
Lovage can grow up to 6 feet tall, so provide ample space. Prune back flower stalks to maintain vigor.
9. Walking Onions (Allium proliferum)
Why Plant It?
These unique onions “walk” across your garden by producing bulbils at the top of their stalks, which fall and root themselves.
Planting Tips:
- Plant bulbils or small sets 1 inch deep in well-drained soil.
- Space them 6–8 inches apart.
Care:
Walking onions are hardy and self-propagating. Harvest bulbs, greens, or bulbils as needed.
10. Good King Henry (Chenopodium bonus-henricus)
Why Plant It?
An ancient perennial green, Good King Henry is rich in nutrients and a great spinach substitute.
Planting Tips:
- Plant seeds in rich, well-drained soil in a sunny spot.
- Space plants about 12 inches apart.
Care:
This low-maintenance plant benefits from occasional weeding and watering during dry spells. Harvest young leaves for the best flavor.
Benefits of Perennial Vegetables
Planting perennial vegetables in the fall offers numerous advantages:
- Low Maintenance: Once established, they require less care than annuals.
- Cost-Effective: No need to buy seeds or transplants every year.
- Soil Health: Their permanent root systems prevent erosion and improve soil structure.
- Sustainability: Perennials are eco-friendly, reducing the need for tilling and fertilizers.
How to Prepare Your Garden for Perennials
- Choose the Right Location: Most perennials prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
- Enrich the Soil: Add compost or organic matter to provide nutrients.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Plan for Spacing: Perennials often grow large, so give them room to spread.
Conclusion
Planting perennial vegetables in the fall is an investment in your garden’s future. These resilient, low-maintenance plants not only provide a steady supply of fresh produce but also contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly gardening approach.
Start your journey with these 10 incredible perennials and enjoy the rewards for years to come. Which of these vegetables will you plant in your garden this fall? Let us know in the comments below!