Waiting for a harvest can feel like forever—but it doesn’t have to! These fast-growing crops are ideal for anyone who wants to see results in just a few weeks. Whether you’re new to gardening or just eager to enjoy homegrown produce ASAP, this list has you covered.
From leafy greens to edible flowers, these quick growers thrive in containers and small spaces—perfect for gardeners craving fast results.
Mizuna – Mild Greens in Just 3 Weeks
Mizuna is a Japanese mustard green that grows fast and tastes mild, making it perfect for salads or stir-fries. It germinates quickly and baby leaves can be harvested in just 20–25 days. It’s also incredibly cold-tolerant!
Pea Shoots – Ready in 2–3 Weeks
You don’t need full-grown peas to enjoy the plant. Harvest the young shoots and tendrils in just 14–21 days for a sweet, crunchy addition to salads, wraps, and sandwiches. They’re a fun indoor project, too!
Tatsoi – Baby Leaves in Under a Month
This leafy green is often used in Asian cooking and matures quickly. Harvest baby tatsoi in as little as 25 days, or wait a bit longer for full heads. It grows in cool weather and is incredibly versatile in the kitchen.
French Breakfast Radish – Spicy and Speedy
Unlike typical round radishes, these oblong French favorites grow fast and add a peppery pop. They’re often harvest-ready in just 20–25 days and make a charming addition to any garden.
Garden Cress – A True Sprinter
Cress is one of the fastest crops you can grow—sometimes ready to harvest in just 7–10 days! It grows easily in small trays on your windowsill and offers a bold, peppery bite similar to arugula.
Kohlrabi – Crisp Bulbs in 30–40 Days
Though it looks alien, kohlrabi is a fast-growing member of the cabbage family. Some early varieties can be harvested in as little as 30 days. Its mild, crunchy bulbs are great raw or roasted.
Microgreens – Sprouts with Style
Microgreens aren’t just trendy—they’re super quick to grow. From sowing to harvest, many varieties like broccoli, mustard, or beet microgreens are ready in 7–14 days. All you need is a shallow tray and some light!
Pak Choi (Dwarf Varieties) – Petite Powerhouse
Dwarf pak choi varieties grow fast and are perfect for smaller spaces. You can begin harvesting baby heads in about 30 days. Use it in soups, stir-fries, or even grilled with garlic butter.
Purslane – A Juicy Garden Surprise
Purslane is a succulent green that thrives in heat and poor soil—and it grows fast. Young leaves can be picked in as little as 3 weeks. It’s rich in omega-3s and has a lemony, slightly salty flavor.
Fenugreek – Fragrant Leaves in 20 Days
Popular in Indian cuisine, fenugreek leaves (called methi) grow fast and are loaded with nutrients. Sow thickly and start snipping greens in just 2–3 weeks. The plant also improves your soil as a nitrogen fixer!
Calendula – Edible Petals in Just Over a Month
Not just a pretty face, calendula flowers are edible and fast-growing. You’ll see blooms in as little as 35–45 days, depending on conditions. Sprinkle the petals in salads for a pop of color and flavor.
With these fast-growing crops, you don’t have to wait long to enjoy the fruits (and leaves!) of your labor. They’re perfect for quick harvests, small spaces, and satisfying your green thumb in no time.
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