Then, it’s time to discover the perennial food garden.

What Is a Perennial?

A perennial is a plant that comes back year after year.

artichoke harvest

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While all plants listed below are perennials, they may not grow perennially in all locations.

Once your plants are established, they’ll be less susceptible to drought or other unfavorable growing conditions.

Perennials also will help to improve your gardens health overall.

green garden with perennials

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They raise the levels of organic matter in the soil with the constant decomposition of their leaves and roots.

And certain varieties can keep pests at bay.

Cons of Growing Perennials

Perennials are not always maintenance-free.

watering perennials

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Perennials require regularfertilizingto thrive.

Many perennial edibles also require a fair amount of pest control.

You also won’t get the same instant gratification that you may be used to with annual foods.

Most perennials don’t produce food for the first three to five years.

It bears mentioning that some perennials can spread to the point of becoming invasive.

Gardeners usually enjoy sharing their knowledge with others, so don’t hesitate to reach out.

Many root vegetables are perennials.

Popular ones are sunchokes, Egyptian walking onion, and Chinese artichoke.

A big part of ensuring your perennials thrive happens before theyre even in the ground.

Water and fertilize your plants in accordance with their unique needs.

Some of the most low-maintenance edible perennials include Asian pear, yarrow, fennel, asparagus, and strawberry.