Top 5 Easiest Veggies
The Top 5 Easiest Veggies for Beginners
So, you’ve decided to start gardening but have no idea where to begin. First of all, welcome to the wonderful (and occasionally muddy) world of growing your own food! Second, don’t worry, you don’t need a green thumb or acres of land to get started. In fact, some veggies are practically foolproof. Here are the top five easiest vegetables for beginners that you can grow in small spaces, containers, or even that random corner of your yard.
1. Radishes: The Overachievers of the Veggie World
If instant gratification is your thing, radishes are your new best friend. These speedy growers are ready to harvest in as little as 3-4 weeks. They’re perfect for small spaces and don’t mind being crammed into containers. Plus, they’re low-maintenance and don’t need much fussing over.
How to Grow:
Sow seeds directly in soil.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Harvest when they’re about the size of a quarter to avoid bitterness.
2. Lettuce: The Salad MVP
Lettuce is one of the easiest leafy greens to grow and thrives in containers or small garden beds. Whether you prefer crisp romaine or tender butterhead, you can enjoy fresh salads right from your backyard. There are varieties for every climate to help you keep growing all year long. And lettuce is the easiest crop to grow in your kitchen with a small LED light.
How to Grow:
Sow seeds in shallow soil.
Water consistently to keep leaves tender. Bottom watering is best.
Harvest the outer leaves as needed, or pull up the whole plant for a big salad night.
3. Green Beans: The Climbers That Keep on Giving
Green beans are the gift that keeps on giving. Once they start producing, you’ll have beans for months. Bush varieties are great for small spaces, while pole beans can climb trellises, fences, or even that old broomstick you’ve been meaning to throw out.
How to Grow:
Plant seeds directly in the ground or containers.
Provide a trellis for pole beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, plant a corn or sunflower seed a few weeks prior to starting your beans. Rattlesnake beans crawling up Mammoth sunflowers are always an head turner in my yard.
Pick beans regularly to encourage more growth.
4. Squash: The Overachiever’s Cousin
Squash plants are generous to a fault. One or two plants can produce more than enough for your family (and your neighbors). I highly recommend starting with just one plant of two varieties and keep trying new ones to see what you and your family like eating. These plants do require a bit more space, but their yields make them well worth it. If you are limited on space, trellis for a vertical centerpiece to any balcony or patio garden. I’ve even grown squash in my garage. Not ideal, but doable in a pinch!
How to Grow:
Plant seeds in a sunny spot with plenty of room to sprawl, or in a sturdy pot with trellis.
Water deeply but not too often.
Harvest when squash are about 6-8 inches long for the best flavor.
5. Herbs: The Flavor Bombs
Okay, technically not a vegetable, but herbs deserve a spot on this list. Basil, parsley, cilantro, rosemary, lavender, chives, and even garlic are all easy to grow and add a ton of flavor to your meals. They’re perfect for windowsills, balconies, or small pots on your patio. Most of my herbs are grown in old coffee pots and repurposed milk jugs. Get creative with these tasty little treats.
How to Grow:
Start with seeds or seedlings.
Keep soil well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Snip leaves often to encourage growth and prevent flowering.
Bonus Tip: Start Small and Build Confidence
Don’t feel like you have to grow everything at once. Pick one or two veggies to start with, and add more as you get the hang of it. Gardening is all about learning, experimenting, and celebrating small victories, like your first homegrown radish. Use what you have. Stop throwing away those kitchen containers that could be used to grow food. If you can poke a few holes in the bottom of it, you can grow in it. And don’t be afraid to ignore the back of the seed packs. Those instructions are for commercial farmers. You can start any seed, at any time, if you have a sunny window and fertile soil.
Ready to get your hands dirty? Grab some seeds, a container or two, and let’s get growing. You’ve got this!
