For some of us it can be hard enough just getting to eat our vegetables (face it, we may be adults but that doesn’t mean we have to act like ones) but growing them for ourselves is a whole different ball game. Whether it’s a busy schedule that keeps you from being able to devote our full attention to our gardens or simply a curse on every plant you try to grow, it can be hard to get started with growing your own vegetables at home but don’t fret because help is just around the corner. Here’s a list of the five best vegetables you can start with even if you’re still a newbie gardener:
1. Carrots – They’re orange, they’re tasty, horses around the world love them and so can you! Being a root vegetable, carrots are safe from the elements so all you have to do is plant the seeds during some cool weather and in a few months (depending on variety) they’re ready to pull up, wash off, and bite right into! If you’re feeling adventurous, try a different kind than your standard orange carrot.
2. Peas – Peas go on this list like, well, I’ll leave that joke where it is. Peas are easy to grow, especially if you have something they can grow on like a trellis or fence, although you can just use a wire support if your yard or garden bed isn’t in an optimal place. Another cool weather veggie, these go great with carrots together in your garden and on your plate in a fresh salad.
3. Pumpkins – Not just for carving for Halloween, although you can grow that variety if you’d like but there are more tasty options out there. Pumpkins are fairly hardy provided you wait for frost season to be over and they’re great for watching grow from tiny flowers into tasty treats. Perfect for planting when you can plan for them to be ready in the fall for October and November for pumpkin pie; you can cook and eat them tons of different ways or just enjoy a healthy, delicious batch of pumpkin seeds!
4. Herbs – Basil, cilantro, sage, thyme, it’s not a Simon and Garfunkel song it’s a list of great additions to your garden! Herb gardens are easy to put together and can even be grown indoors in windowsill planters if you’ve got limited growing space outdoors. Just pick your favorite herb or spice and you’ll have it ready to pick and put right into your favorite dishes whenever you want to add a dash of fresh flavor to a meal.
5. Peppers – Whether you like them hot or mild, you’re sure to love them colorful and tasty! Peppers grow in close to the same conditions as tomatoes, making them a great choice for new gardeners to sink their teeth into (depending on how hot they are of course!). Nothing says summertime like a cool, refreshing taste of freshly chilled salsa on a hot summer’s day.
You can still purchase plants from the nursery to try a vegetable or two and even if you feel like your green thumb is more like the touch of death all you might really need is a little practice with some veggies that are a little easier to grow. You’re sure to find your garden bursting with fresh vegetables of all kinds in no time!