10 Fast Growing Greens For A Quick Harvest Plus Growing Tips

Lynne Huysamen 22 June 2023 Food, Home, Garden & Pets 1 Comment 90 Views

If you’re eager to enjoy fresh produce from your garden but don’t want to wait for slow-growing crops, consider planting fast growing greens. These veggies can be harvested within a month or two, giving you a quick and satisfying taste of your garden’s bounty. To ensure a steady supply of greens throughout the growing season, try sowing a few seeds every other week. Some great options for fast growing greens include lettuce, spinach, arugula, kale, and radishes. With these speedy crops, you’ll be enjoying fresh, homegrown salads in no time!

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Arugula

Arugula is a fast growing green that can be harvested in as little as 30 days. It has a peppery taste and is great in salads or as a garnish on sandwiches and pizzas.

Tips for growing arugula:

Arugula grows best in cool weather, so choose a location that gets partial shade during the hottest part of the day. It also prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Arugula can be grown from seed directly in the ground or started indoors and transplanted. Plant the seeds about ¼ inch deep and 1 inch apart. Thin the seedlings to 6 inches apart once they have grown a few inches tall.
Arugula needs consistent moisture to grow well. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to disease.
Arugula doesn’t need a lot of fertiliser, but a light application of a balanced fertiliser can help it grow more quickly. Use a fertiliser with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
The leaves can be harvested when they are 2-3 inches long. Cut the leaves off at the base of the stem, leaving a few leaves on the plant to continue growing. Arugula can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season.
Arugula is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including flea beetles and downy mildew. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage or disease and take action promptly if necessary.
To prevent soil-borne diseases and pests, it’s a good idea to rotate your arugula crop with other crops each year. Don’t plant arugula in the same spot two years in a row.

Radish

If you’re looking for a vegetable that will yield quick results, look no further than the radish. This fast growing plant can be ready for harvest in as little as three weeks after planting, making it a great choice for gardeners who want to see results quickly. Radishes are a tasty addition to salads and other dishes, so you can enjoy the fruits of your labour in no time. The bulb and the leaves can be eaten.

Tips for growing radish:

There are many different varieties of radish, each with their own unique flavour and growing requirements. Choose a variety that is suited to your climate and soil type, and that will mature within your desired time frame.
Radishes prefer loose, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, work in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
Radishes can be planted year round but grow best in cool weather with temperatures between 10-18°C.
Sow radish seeds directly into the soil, about 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Cover with soil and water gently. Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart once they have grown a few leaves.
Radishes need consistent moisture to grow well, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause the roots to split. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.
Radishes don’t require a lot of fertiliser, but a light application of a balanced fertiliser can help promote healthy growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilisers, as this can cause the roots to become woody.
Radishes are ready to harvest when the roots are about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t wait too long to harvest, as the roots can become tough and bitter.

Lettuce

Looking for a quick harvest of fresh lettuce? Try planting one of these fast growing varieties: Flashy Trout Back, Buttercrunch, Jericho, Green Saladbowl, Red Sails, Clearwater, Deer Tongue, Waldmann’s Dark Green, Tambay, Alboreto, Powerhouse, Black Seeded Simpson, or Little Gem. With a planting-to-harvest time of less than 6 weeks, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals in no time.

Tips for growing lettuce:

When it comes to growing fast-growing lettuce, choosing the right variety is key. Look for varieties that are known for their quick growth, such as Buttercrunch, Black Seeded Simpson, or Salad Bowl.
Lettuce needs nutrient-rich soil to grow quickly and healthily. Use a high-quality potting mix or amend your garden soil with compost or other organic matter.
While lettuce is considered a cool season crop it can be planted year round.
Lettuce needs plenty of sunlight to grow quickly. Choose a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Lettuce needs consistent moisture to grow quickly. Water your lettuce regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
To promote fast growth, fertilise your lettuce regularly with a balanced fertiliser. Look for a fertiliser with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
When your lettuce seedlings start to grow, thin them out to give each plant enough space to grow. This will prevent overcrowding and promote faster growth.
Harvesting your lettuce regularly will encourage new growth and keep your plants producing. Pick the outer leaves of the plant as they mature, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.

Garden Cress

Garden cress, also known as marathi or halim, is a fast growing green plant that can reach a height of approximately 50cm. Its feather-like leaves are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also highly nutritious. In just 45 days, garden cress is ready for harvest, making it a great option for those looking for a quick and easy addition to their garden or diet.

Tips for growing garden cress:

Garden cress thrives in cool and moist environments, so it’s best to plant them in a shaded area with well-draining soil. If you’re growing them indoors, place them near a window that receives indirect sunlight.
Garden cress can be grown year-round, but it’s best to plant them during the cooler months of the year. Plant them in early spring or late summer for optimal growth.
Make sure to use high-quality garden cress seeds to ensure a successful harvest. Look for seeds that are fresh and have a high germination rate.
Garden cress needs to be kept moist at all times. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Garden cress is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilisation. Use a balanced fertiliser every two weeks to ensure healthy growth.
Garden cress can be harvested as soon as the leaves are large enough to eat. Cut the leaves with scissors, leaving about an inch of stem attached to the plant. Harvesting regularly will encourage new growth.
Garden cress can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep them fresh, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag.

Spinach

Spinach is another fast growing green that can be harvested in as little as 25 days. It is packed with nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamin A, making it a great addition to any meal.

Tips for growing spinach:

Spinach can be planted year round but thrives in cool weather, so choose a location that gets partial shade during the day and has well-draining soil. Avoid planting spinach in areas that receive full sun as it can cause the leaves to wilt and bolt.
Spinach prefers soil that is rich in organic matter, so amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Make sure the soil is loose and crumbly to allow for good drainage.
Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Once the seedlings have grown to about 2 inches tall, thin them out to about 6 inches apart. This will give the remaining plants enough space to grow and develop.
Spinach needs consistent moisture to grow well, so water regularly and deeply. Avoid getting water on the leaves as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Spinach doesn’t need a lot of fertiliser, but a light application of a balanced fertiliser can help promote healthy growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilisers as this can cause the leaves to become tough and bitter.
Harvest spinach leaves when they are young and tender, usually around 4-6 weeks after planting. Cut the leaves off at the base of the stem and leave the plant to continue growing. Regular harvesting will encourage the plant to produce more leaves and prevent it from bolting.

Kale

Kale is a nutrient-dense green that can be harvested in as little as 40 days. It is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. It can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in a variety of dishes.

Tips for growing kale:

Kale can be planted in any seasons but it grows best in cool weather, so choose a location that gets partial shade during the hottest part of the day. It also prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Kale needs consistent moisture to grow well. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and temperature. Avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to disease.
Kale is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilisation. Use a balanced fertiliser every 4-6 weeks, or use compost or other organic matter to enrich the soil.
Kale is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, cabbage worms, and powdery mildew. Use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, to keep pests at bay. Rotate crops and practice good sanitation to prevent disease.
Kale leaves can be harvested as soon as they are large enough to eat, usually around 8-10 weeks after planting. Harvest the outer leaves first, leaving the center leaves to continue growing. This will encourage the plant to produce more leaves.
Kale can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep it fresh, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. Alternatively, blanch and freeze kale for later use.

Mustard Greens

Mustard greens are a spicy green that can be harvested in as little as 20 days. They are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. They are great in salads or cooked in stir-fries and soups.

Tips for growing mustard greens:

Mustard greens thrive in cool weather, so choose a location that gets partial shade during the hottest part of the day. They also prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart, and thin seedlings to 6 inches apart once they have grown a few inches tall.
Mustard greens need consistent moisture to grow well, so water them deeply once or twice a week. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Mustard greens benefit from a balanced fertiliser that is high in nitrogen. Apply fertiliser once a month during the growing season, following the instructions on the package.
Harvest mustard greens when they are young and tender, before they become tough and bitter. Cut the leaves off at the base of the stem, leaving the plant intact to continue producing new growth.
Mustard greens can be susceptible to pests like aphids and flea beetles, as well as diseases like downy mildew. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage or discolouration, and treat as necessary with organic pest control methods.
Mustard greens come in many different varieties, from mild and sweet to spicy and pungent. Experiment with different types to find your favourite, and enjoy the nutritional benefits of this delicious and easy-to-grow vegetable.

Microgreens

Microgreens are a variety of greens that are harvested when they are just a few inches tall. They can be grown in as little as 7-14 days and are packed with nutrients like vitamins C and E. They are great in salads or as a garnish on dishes.

Tips for growing microgreens:

When growing microgreens, it’s important to choose the right seeds. Look for seeds that are specifically labeled for microgreens, as they will germinate quickly and produce tender, flavourful shoots.
Microgreens need a soil that is light and fluffy, with good drainage. You can use a commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.
Microgreens need to be watered regularly, but not too much. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. A spray bottle is a great tool for watering microgreens, as it allows you to control the amount of water you use.
Microgreens need plenty of light to grow. Place them in a sunny window or under grow lights for 12-16 hours a day. If you’re using grow lights, keep them about 2-3 inches above the plants.
Microgreens are ready to harvest when they have developed their first true leaves. This usually takes about 7-14 days, depending on the variety. Use scissors to snip the shoots just above the soil line.
Once harvested, microgreens should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to a week, but are best eaten within a few days.
There are many different types of microgreens to choose from, including arugula, kale, radish, and sunflower. Experiment with different varieties to find your favourites and add some variety to your diet.

Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is a fast growing green that can be harvested in as little as 30 days. It is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. It can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in a variety of dishes.

Tips for growing swiss chard:

Swiss chard grows best in a location that receives full sun or partial shade. It also prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Swiss chard can be grown all year, but thrives in cooler weather.
Swiss chard seeds should be planted about 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to about 6 inches apart.
Swiss chard needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.
Swiss chard benefits from regular fertilisation. Use a balanced fertiliser every 4-6 weeks, or use compost or other organic matter to enrich the soil.
Swiss chard leaves can be harvested when they are about 6-8 inches long. Harvest the outer leaves first, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
Swiss chard can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and leaf miners. Use insecticidal soap or other organic pest control methods to keep these pests at bay.

Bok Choy

Bok choy is a fast growing green that can be harvested in as little as 30 days. It is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. It is great in stir-fries and soups or eaten raw in salads.

Tips for growing bok choy:

Bok choy grows best in a location that receives partial shade and has well-draining soil. Avoid planting in areas that receive direct sunlight for extended periods of time as this can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow.
Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility. Bok choy prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Bok choy is a cool-season crop and grows best in temperatures between 7°C and 23°C. Plant seeds in early spring or late summer for an autumn harvest.
Bok choy requires consistent moisture to grow properly. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells, to prevent the soil from drying out. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Bok choy is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilisation to grow properly. Use a balanced fertiliser with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizsr every two weeks during the growing season.
Once the seedlings have sprouted, thin them out to ensure proper spacing. Bok choy plants should be spaced 6-8 inches apart to allow for proper growth and development.
Bok choy is ready to harvest when the leaves are dark green and the stems are firm. Harvest the entire plant by cutting it at the base or pick individual leaves as needed. Bok choy can be harvested at any stage of growth, but it is best to harvest before the plant bolts and goes to seed.