As the coronavirus pandemic continues to affect economies, many are facing financial challenges, especially when it comes to grocery bills. The good news is that anyone can help reduce food costs by growing their own produce. Even with limited space or gardening experience, you can grow a variety of crops that will provide fresh, affordable food throughout the year.
How to Start Growing
Whether you have a dedicated vegetable garden or just a few pots on your windowsill, it’s possible to grow food at home. The key to success is providing plenty of sunlight and protection from strong winds. Most vegetables need sunlight to thrive, though some can tolerate partial shade.
Start with fertile, weed-free soil or potting mix. If your soil isn’t ideal, garden compost can improve it by adding nutrients, helping it retain moisture, and improving drainage. This ensures your plants get the best possible start.
Fast and Reliable Crops to Grow
To maximize your efforts, focus on crops that are both easy to grow and quick to harvest. Look for vegetables that are expensive to buy but easy to grow at home. These fast-growing, reliable crops will provide fresh produce without the hassle, especially when every meal counts.
Here are six crops that are perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike:
1. Salad Leaves (Lettuce & Mixed Greens)
Lettuce and other salad greens are among the fastest crops to grow. Plant them in a block formation, spacing them about 9 inches apart, or sow a mix of different greens for a variety of textures and flavors. Harvest leaves regularly, cutting just a few at a time to allow the plants to continue growing throughout the season.
2. Zucchini
Zucchini is an incredibly prolific plant, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to grow a lot of food with minimal effort. Plant at least two zucchini plants to ensure proper pollination, and you’ll be harvesting tender, flavorful fruit all summer. Pick them early, when they’re about 4 inches long, to ensure a firm texture. Be vigilant, as zucchinis can grow quickly and turn into large, watery marrows if left unchecked.
3. Beans (Bush & Pole)
Beans are a fantastic crop to grow, especially in small spaces. Bush beans are perfect for containers or as a follow-up to early crops like potatoes. Pole beans, while requiring support, are an attractive addition to any garden, especially if you use bamboo or willow poles to create a teepee structure. Be sure to harvest beans promptly to encourage more growth throughout the season.
4. Beets
Beets are often surprisingly expensive at the store, yet they are easy to grow at home. Keep the plants well-watered to prevent them from bolting—this happens when the plant goes to seed prematurely. Beets are versatile in the kitchen and can be roasted, pickled, grated into salads, or even used in baking for a unique flavor boost.
5. Chard
Chard is an easy-to-grow leafy green that offers two harvests for the price of one: nutritious leaves and crunchy, colorful stems. It’s also more heat-tolerant than spinach. Harvest leaves as needed, and the plant will continue to produce for several months. For a simple treat, grill the stems with olive oil and sea salt for a flavorful side dish.
6. Strawberries
Strawberries are a great choice for spring planting. They grow well in containers, hanging baskets, or directly in the ground. To extend the harvest season, plant a mix of early, mid, and late-season varieties. Keep them well-watered and feed them with liquid tomato fertilizer to encourage fruit development.
Conclusion
Gardening can be an enjoyable and rewarding way to reduce food costs, no matter the size of your space. These six crops are all quick-growing, low-maintenance, and versatile in the kitchen. By growing even a few of them, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown food and save money in the process.
What other crops do you find easy to grow and cost-effective?