If you’re looking for quick rewards from your garden, fast-growing edible greens are your best friends. There’s something incredibly satisfying about planting seeds and harvesting fresh, nutrient-packed greens in less than a month. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned pro, these speedy crops can keep your kitchen stocked with vibrant, healthy ingredients all season long.
The beauty of these greens lies not just in their rapid growth, but also in their versatility. From peppery arugula to tender spinach and crisp lettuces, these plants thrive in small spaces, containers, or traditional beds, making them perfect for balconies, patios, or backyard plots. Plus, they often require minimal care, making fast harvests both simple and rewarding.
In this guide, we highlight 20 edible greens that grow quickly, taste delicious, and are packed with nutrients. Whether you want to toss them in salads, blend them into smoothies, or add them to your favorite dishes, these fast-growing greens will have you harvesting fresh flavors in just weeks.
Arugula
Arugula, with its peppery bite, is a favorite among salad aficionados. Its rapid growth makes it ideal for impatient gardeners. Just imagine the spicy kick it adds to your dishes! Ready to harvest in about 21 days, this leafy green can be grown in small pots or garden beds. Originating from the Mediterranean, it’s no wonder arugula is a staple in Italian cuisine. Remember to harvest the leaves while they’re young and tender for the best flavor. A quick and rewarding crop, arugula is a must-have in your garden.
Radish Greens
Often overlooked, radish greens offer a peppery zest similar to the roots they sprout from. Quick to emerge, you’ll find these greens ready in just 25 days. They thrive in well-drained soil and are perfect for those seeking a little crunch in their salads. Don’t toss them away! Incorporate them into your culinary repertoire. Not only are they delicious, but they also pack a punch of nutrients. Embrace the entire radish, and you’ll enjoy double the harvest! Ideal for adventurous eaters.
Spinach
Spinach is renowned for its tender and nutrient-rich leaves. This green marvel can be harvested in as little as 30 days, making it a fast favorite for salads and smoothies. Its ability to thrive in cooler temperatures makes it versatile across seasons. With origins tracing back to Persia, spinach has been cherished for its health benefits for centuries. To get the best yield, ensure consistent moisture and sunlight. Incorporating spinach into your diet is not only delicious but also a healthful choice.
Lettuce
Lettuce offers a crisp texture and subtle flavor, perfect for fresh salads. Varieties like leaf and butterhead can be harvested in under 30 days. This green thrives in cool weather, making it ideal for early spring or fall gardens. Its ancient cultivation dates back to Egyptian times, proving its lasting culinary appeal. With a multitude of varieties available, lettuce provides endless possibilities for your garden. Grow lettuce in containers or directly in your garden bed for a rewarding yield.
Kale
Kale’s robust texture and earthy flavor make it a popular choice for healthy eaters. Harvestable in just under a month, this green powerhouse adds a nutritious boost to salads and stews. Known for its resilience, kale grows well in both cool and warm conditions. Historically, it was a staple in European gardens, revered for its hardiness. For tender leaves, pick them young and enjoy their mild taste. As a garden staple, kale is both rewarding and versatile, ideal for a nutritious diet.
Chard
Chard is celebrated for its vibrant stems and lush leaves, adding a splash of color to any garden. Ready to harvest in about 30 days, this leafy green offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It’s a relative of the beet plant, known for its versatility in dishes. Chard grows well in various conditions, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. Its nutritional profile includes vitamins A, K, and C. Whether sautéed or raw, chard is a delightful addition to your meals, offering both taste and nutrition.
Mustard Greens
Mustard greens bring a spicy flair to your plate, reminiscent of wasabi. Fast-growing and resilient, they can be harvested in just 30 days. They flourish in cooler climates, making them perfect for early spring planting. Historically significant in Southern cooking, mustard greens add a bold flavor to various dishes. Harvest them young for a milder taste, or let them mature for more heat. These greens are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them both a healthy and flavorful choice.
Cress
Cress is a small, peppery green that thrives in moist conditions. In just two weeks, you can enjoy its distinctive flavor, perfect for garnishes or sandwiches. Its rapid growth and minimal requirements make it a favorite among beginner gardeners. Known since ancient times, cress has been used in cuisines worldwide for its unique taste and health benefits. Whether grown indoors or out, its versatility is unmatched. Experiment with cress in your dishes and enjoy its refreshing, spicy kick.
Bok Choy
Bok choy, with its tender stalks and mild flavor, is a quick-growing favorite in Asian cuisine. Ready for harvest in just 30 days, it thrives in cooler climates and is ideal for early-season planting. A staple in stir-fries and soups, its versatility in the kitchen is unmatched. Originating from China, bok choy has been cultivated for thousands of years. For the freshest taste, harvest young leaves and enjoy their crunchy texture. A delightful and nutritious addition to any garden.
Mizuna
Mizuna is a Japanese mustard green, known for its feathery leaves and mild, peppery flavor. Harvestable in as little as 21 days, it adds a delightful crunch to salads and stir-fries. This hardy plant thrives in various climates, making it a versatile choice for gardeners. Mizuna’s history dates back to Japan, where it has been a culinary staple for centuries. With its unique taste and fast growth, mizuna is a wonderful addition to any garden, offering both diversity and flavor.
Mâche
Mâche, or lamb’s lettuce, is cherished for its tender leaves and nutty flavor. Typically ready to harvest in just 30 days, it thrives in cool conditions. This European native is often used in salads for its unique taste and texture. Mâche’s history of cultivation dates back to the 17th century, highlighting its enduring popularity. Grow it in your garden or containers, and enjoy its subtle, refreshing flavor. A delightful green that adds a gourmet touch to your culinary creations.
Collard Greens
Collard greens, with their slightly bitter taste, are a staple in Southern cooking. Harvest them in about 30 days for tender leaves that complement a variety of dishes. They thrive in warmer climates but can also withstand cooler temperatures, making them versatile. Historically, collard greens have been a part of African-American cuisine for generations. They offer a rich source of vitamins and minerals, promoting health and wellness. With their robust flavor, these greens are both nutritious and delicious.
Pak Choi
Pak choi, similar to bok choy, offers tender leaves and a crisp texture. Ready to harvest in just 30 days, it grows well in cooler climates. This Asian green is perfect for stir-fries and soups, adding a mild, refreshing taste. Originating from China, pak choi has been a culinary favorite for centuries. For best results, harvest when young and enjoy its delicate flavor. Its rapid growth and versatility make pak choi a popular choice for both gardeners and chefs alike.
Tatsoi
Tatsoi, with its spoon-shaped leaves, offers a mild mustard flavor. Harvestable in as little as 20 days, it’s perfect for quick, nutritious meals. This Asian green thrives in cool weather and is known for its unique rosette growth pattern. Historically used in Asian cuisine, tatsoi adds a delightful flavor and texture to dishes. Its rapid growth and minimal care requirements make it ideal for gardeners seeking a fast yield. Enjoy tatsoi raw in salads or lightly sautéed for a tasty treat.
Romaine Lettuce
Romaine, with its crisp texture and slightly bitter flavor, is a salad favorite. Harvest in just under 30 days for fresh, tender leaves. This variety thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil. With a history of cultivation dating back to ancient times, romaine’s popularity endures. It’s renowned for its nutritional benefits, offering a good source of vitamins and minerals. Whether used in a classic Caesar salad or as a sandwich wrap, romaine is versatile and delicious.
Turnip Greens
Turnip greens are often overshadowed by the root itself, but they offer a peppery punch. Harvestable in just 30 days, they thrive in cool weather. Known for their role in Southern cuisine, turnip greens are often sautéed or used in soups. Their rapid growth and nutritional value make them a gardener’s delight. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, they contribute to a healthy diet. Embrace the entire turnip plant and enjoy double the harvest, both root and greens.
Beet Greens
Beet greens, often overlooked, provide a sweet and earthy flavor similar to Swiss chard. Ready to harvest in about 25 days, they are perfect for salads and sautés. These greens thrive in well-drained soil and sunny conditions. Historically enjoyed in various cuisines, beet greens are a nutritious option, rich in vitamins A and K. Don’t discard them when harvesting beets; instead, use the entire plant for maximum yield. Delight in their vibrant color and flavor in your dishes.
Pea Shoots
Pea shoots, with their delicate tendrils and sweet flavor, are a culinary delight. Harvest in just 14 days for tender, fresh shoots that enhance any dish. These greens are easy to grow indoors, even on a windowsill. Originally used in Asian cuisine, pea shoots add a subtle sweetness and crispness to salads and stir-fries. They’re not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making them a healthy addition. Enjoy them raw or slightly cooked for a refreshing taste.
Watercress
Watercress is known for its peppery flavor and crisp texture. Harvestable in just under 30 days, this green thrives in water-rich environments. Often used as a garnish, it adds a refreshing bite to salads and sandwiches. Its cultivation dates back to ancient Greece, where it was valued for its health benefits. Perfect for hydroponic systems or growing by a stream, watercress is both versatile and nutritious. Enjoy its unique taste and enhance your meals with this vibrant green.
Sorrel
Sorrel brings a tangy, lemony flavor to your dishes. Ready to harvest in about 30 days, it thrives in various climates. This perennial green can be used in soups, salads, or as a garnish. With a history of use in European cooking, sorrel’s unique taste offers a refreshing twist to traditional recipes. Its rapid growth and low maintenance make it a favorite among gardeners. Whether enjoyed raw or cooked, sorrel is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.