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Anual Plants
Broccoli
Growing Conditions
-
Thrives in cool weather with temperatures between 60-65°F -
Requires full sun (6+ hours daily) and well-draining, fertile soil -
Plant in early spring or late summer for fall harvest -
Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Water consistently (1-1.5 inches per week) to prevent bitter taste -
Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are 6 inches tall -
Monitor for cabbage worms and aphids regularly -
Harvest main head when buds are tight and dark green
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planting: Harvest main heads in late June to early July -
Fall planting: Harvest from September to first frost -
Side shoots continue producing for 4-6 weeks after main head harvest -
Best harvested in cool morning hours
Benefits
-
High in vitamins C, K, and fiber -
Produces side shoots after main head harvest, extending yield -
Excellent for succession planting -
Freezes well for long-term storage
Carrots
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, loose soil free of rocks and debris -
Cool temperatures between 60-70°F -
Full sun to partial shade -
Plant seeds 3-4 weeks before last frost
Maintenance
-
Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart -
Keep soil consistently moist until germination -
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent green shoulders -
Control weeds carefully to prevent competition
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planted: Ready in early to mid-summer (60-75 days) -
Fall crop: Plant in July for October harvest -
Can be left in ground until first hard freeze -
Sweetens after light frost exposure
Benefits
-
Can be stored for months in cool conditions -
Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants -
Multiple varieties offer different colors and flavors -
Great companion plant for tomatoes and onions
Onions
Growing Conditions
-
Well-draining, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter -
Full sun exposure -
Plant sets or transplants in early spring -
pH between 6.0-6.8
Maintenance
-
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots -
Stop watering when tops begin to fall over -
Remove flower stalks if they appear -
Harvest when tops naturally fall over and dry
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Main harvest typically in late August to September -
Begin harvesting when tops fall over naturally -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harves -
Store through winter in cool, dry conditions
Benefits
-
Long storage life when properly cured -
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Multiple varieties suitable for different uses -
High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Lettuce
Growing Conditions
-
Cool-season crop preferring 60-65°F -
Rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture -
Can grow in partial shade during hot months -
Succession plant every 2-3 weeks
Maintenance
-
Harvest outer leaves regularly for continuous production -
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged -
Protect from heat with shade cloth in summer -
Monitor for slugs and aphids
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring crop: May through June -
Fall crop: September through first frost -
Succession plant every 2 weeks for continuous harvest -
Baby leaves ready in 21-25 days, full heads in 45-60 days
Pole Beans
Growing Conditions
-
Warm soil temperatures (60°F+) -
Full sun exposure -
Strong support structure (6-8 feet tall) -
Well-draining, fertile soil
Maintenance
-
Train vines to climb supports -
Water consistently, especially when flowering -
Harvest regularly to encourage production -
Remove yellowed or diseased leaves promptly
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting about 65-75 days after planting -
Peak production July through September -
Harvest every 2-3 days for continuous production -
Best picked when pods are pencil-thick
Growing Conditions
-
Thrives in cool weather with temperatures between 60-65°F -
Requires full sun (6+ hours daily) and well-draining, fertile soil -
Plant in early spring or late summer for fall harvest -
Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Water consistently (1-1.5 inches per week) to prevent bitter taste -
Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are 6 inches tall -
Monitor for cabbage worms and aphids regularly -
Harvest main head when buds are tight and dark green
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planting: Harvest main heads in late June to early July -
Fall planting: Harvest from September to first frost -
Side shoots continue producing for 4-6 weeks after main head harvest -
Best harvested in cool morning hours
Benefits
-
High in vitamins C, K, and fiber -
Produces side shoots after main head harvest, extending yield -
Excellent for succession planting -
Freezes well for long-term storage
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, loose soil free of rocks and debris -
Cool temperatures between 60-70°F -
Full sun to partial shade -
Plant seeds 3-4 weeks before last frost
Maintenance
-
Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart -
Keep soil consistently moist until germination -
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent green shoulders -
Control weeds carefully to prevent competition
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planted: Ready in early to mid-summer (60-75 days) -
Fall crop: Plant in July for October harvest -
Can be left in ground until first hard freeze -
Sweetens after light frost exposure
Benefits
-
Can be stored for months in cool conditions -
Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants -
Multiple varieties offer different colors and flavors -
Great companion plant for tomatoes and onions
Growing Conditions
-
Well-draining, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter -
Full sun exposure -
Plant sets or transplants in early spring -
pH between 6.0-6.8
Maintenance
-
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots -
Stop watering when tops begin to fall over -
Remove flower stalks if they appear -
Harvest when tops naturally fall over and dry
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Main harvest typically in late August to September -
Begin harvesting when tops fall over naturally -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harves -
Store through winter in cool, dry conditions
Benefits
-
Long storage life when properly cured -
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Multiple varieties suitable for different uses -
High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Growing Conditions
-
Cool-season crop preferring 60-65°F -
Rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture -
Can grow in partial shade during hot months -
Succession plant every 2-3 weeks
Maintenance
-
Harvest outer leaves regularly for continuous production -
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged -
Protect from heat with shade cloth in summer -
Monitor for slugs and aphids
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring crop: May through June -
Fall crop: September through first frost -
Succession plant every 2 weeks for continuous harvest -
Baby leaves ready in 21-25 days, full heads in 45-60 days
Growing Conditions
-
Warm soil temperatures (60°F+) -
Full sun exposure -
Strong support structure (6-8 feet tall) -
Well-draining, fertile soil
Maintenance
-
Train vines to climb supports -
Water consistently, especially when flowering -
Harvest regularly to encourage production -
Remove yellowed or diseased leaves promptly
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting about 65-75 days after planting -
Peak production July through September -
Harvest every 2-3 days for continuous production -
Best picked when pods are pencil-thick
Perrenials Plants
Asparagus
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun location -
pH between 6.0-7.0 -
Permanent bed location (produces for 15-20 years)
Maintenance
-
Wait 2-3 years before first harvest -
Remove weeds carefully to protect shallow roots -
Cut foliage down in late fall -
Mulch heavily to suppress weeds
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
First harvest in early to mid-May -
Harvest period lasts 4-6 weeks -
Stop harvesting when spears become pencil-thin -
Allow all growth after July 1 to feed roots
Benefits
-
Early spring harvest when few crops are ready -
Long-lived perennial requiring minimal replanting -
Excellent source of vitamins and minerals -
Beautiful fern-like foliage in summer
Strawberries
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, loose soil free of rocks and debris -
Cool temperatures between 60-70°F -
Full sun to partial shade -
Plant seeds 3-4 weeks before last frost
Maintenance
-
Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart -
Keep soil consistently moist until germination -
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent green shoulders -
Control weeds carefully to prevent competition
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planted: Ready in early to mid-summer (60-75 days) -
Fall crop: Plant in July for October harvest -
Can be left in ground until first hard freeze -
Sweetens after light frost exposure
Benefits
-
Can be stored for months in cool conditions -
Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants -
Multiple varieties offer different colors and flavors -
Great companion plant for tomatoes and onions
Garlic
(*Not natural perennial but can be used as one with)
Growing Conditions
-
Plant in fall for summer harvest -
Rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun exposure -
Space cloves 4-6 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Mulch heavily after planting -
Remove flower stalks (scapes) when they appear -
Stop watering when leaves begin to yellow -
Harvest when lower leaves start browning
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Harvest scapes in late June -
Main bulb harvest in late July to early August -
Dig when 50% of leaves have yellowed -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harvest
Benefits
-
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Long storage life when properly cured -
Both bulbs and scapes are edible -
Very few pest or disease problems
Wildflowers
Growing Conditions
-
Native species adapted to local conditions -
Full sun to partial shade depending on variety -
Well-draining soil -
Sow in spring after danger of frost
Maintenance
-
Water until established -
Remove invasive weeds -
Deadhead to extend blooming period -
Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Bloom times vary by species -
Early spring bloomers: April-May -
Summer peak: June-August -
Fall bloomers through September -
Seed collection: Late summer through fall
Benefits
-
Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects -
Low maintenance once established -
Provides season-long color -
Supports local ecosystem
Herbs
Growing Conditions
-
Most prefer full sun -
Well-draining soil -
Can be grown in containers -
Space according to variety
Maintenance
-
Harvest regularly to encourage bushiness -
Prune to prevent flowering (for leaf herbs) -
Water at base to prevent leaf diseases -
Divide perennial herbs every few years
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting once plants are established (6-8 inches tall) -
Peak harvest during summer months -
Final harvest before first frost -
Indoor herbs can be harvested year-round
Benefits
-
Fresh herbs for cooking year-round -
Many herbs have medicinal properties -
Attract beneficial insects -
Most are drought-tolerant once established
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun location -
pH between 6.0-7.0 -
Permanent bed location (produces for 15-20 years)
Maintenance
-
Wait 2-3 years before first harvest -
Remove weeds carefully to protect shallow roots -
Cut foliage down in late fall -
Mulch heavily to suppress weeds
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
First harvest in early to mid-May -
Harvest period lasts 4-6 weeks -
Stop harvesting when spears become pencil-thin -
Allow all growth after July 1 to feed roots
Benefits
-
Early spring harvest when few crops are ready -
Long-lived perennial requiring minimal replanting -
Excellent source of vitamins and minerals -
Beautiful fern-like foliage in summer
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, loose soil free of rocks and debris -
Cool temperatures between 60-70°F -
Full sun to partial shade -
Plant seeds 3-4 weeks before last frost
Maintenance
-
Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart -
Keep soil consistently moist until germination -
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent green shoulders -
Control weeds carefully to prevent competition
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planted: Ready in early to mid-summer (60-75 days) -
Fall crop: Plant in July for October harvest -
Can be left in ground until first hard freeze -
Sweetens after light frost exposure
Benefits
-
Can be stored for months in cool conditions -
Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants -
Multiple varieties offer different colors and flavors -
Great companion plant for tomatoes and onions
(*Not natural perennial but can be used as one with)
Growing Conditions
-
Plant in fall for summer harvest -
Rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun exposure -
Space cloves 4-6 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Mulch heavily after planting -
Remove flower stalks (scapes) when they appear -
Stop watering when leaves begin to yellow -
Harvest when lower leaves start browning
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Harvest scapes in late June -
Main bulb harvest in late July to early August -
Dig when 50% of leaves have yellowed -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harvest
Benefits
-
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Long storage life when properly cured -
Both bulbs and scapes are edible -
Very few pest or disease problems
Growing Conditions
-
Native species adapted to local conditions -
Full sun to partial shade depending on variety -
Well-draining soil -
Sow in spring after danger of frost
Maintenance
-
Water until established -
Remove invasive weeds -
Deadhead to extend blooming period -
Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Bloom times vary by species -
Early spring bloomers: April-May -
Summer peak: June-August -
Fall bloomers through September -
Seed collection: Late summer through fall
Benefits
-
Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects -
Low maintenance once established -
Provides season-long color -
Supports local ecosystem
Growing Conditions
-
Most prefer full sun -
Well-draining soil -
Can be grown in containers -
Space according to variety
Maintenance
-
Harvest regularly to encourage bushiness -
Prune to prevent flowering (for leaf herbs) -
Water at base to prevent leaf diseases -
Divide perennial herbs every few years
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting once plants are established (6-8 inches tall) -
Peak harvest during summer months -
Final harvest before first frost -
Indoor herbs can be harvested year-round
Benefits
-
Fresh herbs for cooking year-round -
Many herbs have medicinal properties -
Attract beneficial insects -
Most are drought-tolerant once established
Benefits
-
High in vitamins C, K, and fiber -
Produces side shoots after main head harvest, extending yield -
Excellent for succession planting -
Freezes well for long-term storage
Broccoli
Growing Conditions
-
Thrives in cool weather with temperatures between 60-65°F -
Requires full sun (6+ hours daily) and well-draining, fertile soil -
Plant in early spring or late summer for fall harvest -
Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Water consistently (1-1.5 inches per week) to prevent bitter taste -
Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are 6 inches tall -
Monitor for cabbage worms and aphids regularly -
Harvest main head when buds are tight and dark green
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planting: Harvest main heads in late June to early July -
Fall planting: Harvest from September to first frost -
Side shoots continue producing for 4-6 weeks after main head harvest -
Best harvested in cool morning hours
Carrots
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, loose soil free of rocks and debris -
Cool temperatures between 60-70°F -
Full sun to partial shade -
Plant seeds 3-4 weeks before last frost
Maintenance
-
Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart -
Keep soil consistently moist until germination -
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent green shoulders -
Control weeds carefully to prevent competition
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planted: Ready in early to mid-summer (60-75 days) -
Fall crop: Plant in July for October harvest -
Can be left in ground until first hard freeze -
Sweetens after light frost exposure
Benefits
-
Can be stored for months in cool conditions -
Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants -
Multiple varieties offer different colors and flavors -
Great companion plant for tomatoes and onions
Benefits
-
Long storage life when properly cured -
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Multiple varieties suitable for different uses -
High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Onions
Growing Conditions
-
Well-draining, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter -
Full sun exposure -
Plant sets or transplants in early spring -
pH between 6.0-6.8
Maintenance
-
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots -
Stop watering when tops begin to fall over -
Remove flower stalks if they appear -
Harvest when tops naturally fall over and dry
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Main harvest typically in late August to September -
Begin harvesting when tops fall over naturally -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harves -
Store through winter in cool, dry conditions
Lettuce
Growing Conditions
-
Cool-season crop preferring 60-65°F -
Rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture -
Can grow in partial shade during hot months -
Succession plant every 2-3 weeks
Maintenance
-
Harvest outer leaves regularly for continuous production -
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged -
Protect from heat with shade cloth in summer -
Monitor for slugs and aphids
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring crop: May through June -
Fall crop: September through first frost -
Succession plant every 2 weeks for continuous harvest -
Baby leaves ready in 21-25 days, full heads in 45-60 days
Benefits
-
Quick growing crop (30-60 days to harvest) -
Can be harvested multiple times -
Excellent for container gardening -
Low maintenance and perfect for beginners
Benefits
-
Vertical growing saves garden space -
Long harvest period -
Nitrogen-fixing properties improve soil -
High yield per square foot
Pole Beans
Growing Conditions
-
Warm soil temperatures (60°F+) -
Full sun exposure -
Strong support structure (6-8 feet tall) -
Well-draining, fertile soil
Maintenance
-
Train vines to climb supports -
Water consistently, especially when flowering -
Harvest regularly to encourage production -
Remove yellowed or diseased leaves promptly
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting about 65-75 days after planting -
Peak production July through September -
Harvest every 2-3 days for continuous production -
Best picked when pods are pencil-thick
To take your favorite plants
Benefits
-
Early spring harvest when few crops are ready -
Long-lived perennial requiring minimal replanting -
Excellent source of vitamins and minerals -
Beautiful fern-like foliage in summer
Asparagus
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun location -
pH between 6.0-7.0 -
Permanent bed location (produces for 15-20 years)
Maintenance
-
Wait 2-3 years before first harvest -
Remove weeds carefully to protect shallow roots -
Cut foliage down in late fall -
Mulch heavily to suppress weeds
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
First harvest in early to mid-May -
Harvest period lasts 4-6 weeks -
Stop harvesting when spears become pencil-thin -
Allow all growth after July 1 to feed roots
Strawberries
Growing Conditions
-
Well-draining soil rich in organic matter -
Full sun to light afternoon shade -
pH between 5.5-6.8 -
Space plants 12-18 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Remove runners unless propagating new plants -
Mulch with straw to keep fruits clean -
Protect from winter damage with heavy mulch -
Remove old leaves in early spring
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
June-bearing: Major crop in mid-June to early July -
Ever-bearing: Initial crop in June, second crop in August -
Day-neutral: Continuous harvest June through October -
Pick every 2-3 days during peak season
Benefits
-
Fresh berries from your own garden -
Can be grown in containers or hanging baskets -
Excellent ground cover -
Attracts beneficial pollinators
Benefits
-
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Long storage life when properly cured -
Both bulbs and scapes are edible -
Very few pest or disease problems
Garlic
(*Not natural perennial but can be used as one with)
Growing Conditions
-
Plant in fall for summer harvest -
Rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun exposure -
Space cloves 4-6 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Mulch heavily after planting -
Remove flower stalks (scapes) when they appear -
Stop watering when leaves begin to yellow -
Harvest when lower leaves start browning
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Harvest scapes in late June -
Main bulb harvest in late July to early August -
Dig when 50% of leaves have yellowed -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harvest
Wildflowers
Growing Conditions
-
Native species adapted to local conditions -
Full sun to partial shade depending on variety -
Well-draining soil -
Sow in spring after danger of frost
Maintenance
-
Water until established -
Remove invasive weeds -
Deadhead to extend blooming period -
Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Bloom times vary by species -
Early spring bloomers: April-May -
Summer peak: June-August -
Fall bloomers through September -
Seed collection: Late summer through fall
Benefits
-
Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects -
Low maintenance once established -
Provides season-long color -
Supports local ecosystem
Benefits
-
Fresh herbs for cooking year-round -
Many herbs have medicinal properties -
Attract beneficial insects -
Most are drought-tolerant once established
Herbs
Growing Conditions
-
Most prefer full sun -
Well-draining soil -
Can be grown in containers -
Space according to variety
Maintenance
-
Harvest regularly to encourage bushiness -
Prune to prevent flowering (for leaf herbs) -
Water at base to prevent leaf diseases -
Divide perennial herbs every few years
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting once plants are established (6-8 inches tall) -
Peak harvest during summer months -
Final harvest before first frost -
Indoor herbs can be harvested year-round
To take your favorite plants
Benefits
-
High in vitamins C, K, and fiber -
Produces side shoots after main head harvest, extending yield -
Excellent for succession planting -
Freezes well for long-term storage
Broccoli
Growing Conditions
-
Thrives in cool weather with temperatures between 60-65°F -
Requires full sun (6+ hours daily) and well-draining, fertile soil -
Plant in early spring or late summer for fall harvest -
Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Water consistently (1-1.5 inches per week) to prevent bitter taste -
Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are 6 inches tall -
Monitor for cabbage worms and aphids regularly -
Harvest main head when buds are tight and dark green
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planting: Harvest main heads in late June to early July -
Fall planting: Harvest from September to first frost -
Side shoots continue producing for 4-6 weeks after main head harvest -
Best harvested in cool morning hours
Carrots
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, loose soil free of rocks and debris -
Cool temperatures between 60-70°F -
Full sun to partial shade -
Plant seeds 3-4 weeks before last frost
Maintenance
-
Thin seedlings to 2-3 inches apart -
Keep soil consistently moist until germination -
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent green shoulders -
Control weeds carefully to prevent competition
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring planted: Ready in early to mid-summer (60-75 days) -
Fall crop: Plant in July for October harvest -
Can be left in ground until first hard freeze -
Sweetens after light frost exposure
Benefits
-
Can be stored for months in cool conditions -
Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants -
Multiple varieties offer different colors and flavors -
Great companion plant for tomatoes and onions
Benefits
-
Long storage life when properly cured -
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Multiple varieties suitable for different uses -
High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Onions
Growing Conditions
-
Well-draining, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter -
Full sun exposure -
Plant sets or transplants in early spring -
pH between 6.0-6.8
Maintenance
-
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots -
Stop watering when tops begin to fall over -
Remove flower stalks if they appear -
Harvest when tops naturally fall over and dry
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Main harvest typically in late August to September -
Begin harvesting when tops fall over naturally -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harves -
Store through winter in cool, dry conditions
Lettuce
Growing Conditions
-
Cool-season crop preferring 60-65°F -
Rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture -
Can grow in partial shade during hot months -
Succession plant every 2-3 weeks
Maintenance
-
Harvest outer leaves regularly for continuous production -
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged -
Protect from heat with shade cloth in summer -
Monitor for slugs and aphids
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Spring crop: May through June -
Fall crop: September through first frost -
Succession plant every 2 weeks for continuous harvest -
Baby leaves ready in 21-25 days, full heads in 45-60 days
Benefits
-
Quick growing crop (30-60 days to harvest) -
Can be harvested multiple times -
Excellent for container gardening -
Low maintenance and perfect for beginners
Benefits
-
Vertical growing saves garden space -
Long harvest period -
Nitrogen-fixing properties improve soil -
High yield per square foot
Pole Beans
Growing Conditions
-
Warm soil temperatures (60°F+) -
Full sun exposure -
Strong support structure (6-8 feet tall) -
Well-draining, fertile soil
Maintenance
-
Train vines to climb supports -
Water consistently, especially when flowering -
Harvest regularly to encourage production -
Remove yellowed or diseased leaves promptly
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting about 65-75 days after planting -
Peak production July through September -
Harvest every 2-3 days for continuous production -
Best picked when pods are pencil-thick
To take your favorite plants
Benefits
-
Early spring harvest when few crops are ready -
Long-lived perennial requiring minimal replanting -
Excellent source of vitamins and minerals -
Beautiful fern-like foliage in summer
Asparagus
Growing Conditions
-
Deep, rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun location -
pH between 6.0-7.0 -
Permanent bed location (produces for 15-20 years)
Maintenance
-
Wait 2-3 years before first harvest -
Remove weeds carefully to protect shallow roots -
Cut foliage down in late fall -
Mulch heavily to suppress weeds
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
First harvest in early to mid-May -
Harvest period lasts 4-6 weeks -
Stop harvesting when spears become pencil-thin -
Allow all growth after July 1 to feed roots
Strawberries
Growing Conditions
-
Well-draining soil rich in organic matter -
Full sun to light afternoon shade -
pH between 5.5-6.8 -
Space plants 12-18 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Remove runners unless propagating new plants -
Mulch with straw to keep fruits clean -
Protect from winter damage with heavy mulch -
Remove old leaves in early spring
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
June-bearing: Major crop in mid-June to early July -
Ever-bearing: Initial crop in June, second crop in August -
Day-neutral: Continuous harvest June through October -
Pick every 2-3 days during peak season
Benefits
-
Fresh berries from your own garden -
Can be grown in containers or hanging baskets -
Excellent ground cover -
Attracts beneficial pollinators
Benefits
-
Natural pest deterrent in the garden -
Long storage life when properly cured -
Both bulbs and scapes are edible -
Very few pest or disease problems
Garlic
(*Not natural perennial but can be used as one with)
Growing Conditions
-
Plant in fall for summer harvest -
Rich, well-draining soil -
Full sun exposure -
Space cloves 4-6 inches apart
Maintenance
-
Mulch heavily after planting -
Remove flower stalks (scapes) when they appear -
Stop watering when leaves begin to yellow -
Harvest when lower leaves start browning
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Harvest scapes in late June -
Main bulb harvest in late July to early August -
Dig when 50% of leaves have yellowed -
Cure for 2-3 weeks after harvest
Wildflowers
Growing Conditions
-
Native species adapted to local conditions -
Full sun to partial shade depending on variety -
Well-draining soil -
Sow in spring after danger of frost
Maintenance
-
Water until established -
Remove invasive weeds -
Deadhead to extend blooming period -
Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Bloom times vary by species -
Early spring bloomers: April-May -
Summer peak: June-August -
Fall bloomers through September -
Seed collection: Late summer through fall
Benefits
-
Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects -
Low maintenance once established -
Provides season-long color -
Supports local ecosystem
Benefits
-
Fresh herbs for cooking year-round -
Many herbs have medicinal properties -
Attract beneficial insects -
Most are drought-tolerant once established
Herbs
Growing Conditions
-
Most prefer full sun -
Well-draining soil -
Can be grown in containers -
Space according to variety
Maintenance
-
Harvest regularly to encourage bushiness -
Prune to prevent flowering (for leaf herbs) -
Water at base to prevent leaf diseases -
Divide perennial herbs every few years
Harvest Time in Minnesota
-
Begin harvesting once plants are established (6-8 inches tall) -
Peak harvest during summer months -
Final harvest before first frost -
Indoor herbs can be harvested year-round