Edible perennial plants you should have in your garden

If you love fresh vegetables and herbs without the stress of replanting every season, then you must consider planting these perennial plants in your garden. They grow year after year, giving you a steady supply of food, spices, and even medicine.

Mint

Mint grows best in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral ph. It does well under partial or full sunlight but spreads fast, so it’s better to plant it in a pot or an area where it won’t take over other crops. Mint is great for digestion, freshens breath, and helps with headaches.

Scent leaf

Scent leaf, otherwise known as Efirin, does well in rich, loamy soil that drains well. It loves plenty of sunlight and moderate watering. It can be found in almost all parts of the country but it’s most common in South-South Nigeria. This fragrant herb is a staple in Nigerian cooking and also works wonders for boosting immunity, treating colds, and managing blood sugar levels. It can be added to any meal, rice and spaghetti inclusive.

READ ALSO: 7 Health Benefits Of Scent Leaves

Pumpkin leaf

Pumpkin leaf or ugu leaf thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and loves plenty of sunlight. This plant is versatile as it can be added to any soup and be used as spice for rice and the likes. It needs enough space to spread out and regular watering. Ugu is packed with vitamins A and C, which help improve eyesight, boost immunity, and aid digestion.

Iyana Ipaja

Iyana Ipaja or Hospital Is Too Far, is a power bank of essential nutrients and minerals for the body. It is found mostly in the South-South region of the country and some parts of south-East. However, because of transplanting and use, it can now be found in almost all parts of Nigeria. It thrives well in loamy soil, under normal whether condition. It known for its curative properties for ailments such as Anaemia, cough and cold, asthma, diabetes, bleeding and itching, hypertension, amongst others.

READ ALSO: The health Benefits of Moringa Leaves

Kale

Kale prefers moist, fertile soil and grows well in both partial and full sun. It enjoys cool temperatures and needs rich compost for healthy leaves. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients, helping with heart health, digestion, and weight management.

Soybeans

Soybeans do best in well-drained, loamy soil. They need full sun and regular watering. Apart from being a great source of protein, soybeans also support heart health and can be a good alternative for people who avoid dairy.

Rosemary

Rosemary does well in sandy or loamy soil that drains quickly. It loves full sun and doesn’t need much watering. This herb is fantastic for improving memory, aiding digestion, and reducing inflammation.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers grow best in rich, well-draining soil. They love full sun and need consistent watering. If you have limited space, growing them on a trellis is a great idea. They help keep the body hydrated, support skin health, and aid digestion.

Corn

Corn thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and requires full sunlight. It also needs enough spacing for proper pollination. Oka is rich in fiber, provides energy, and helps with digestion.

Ewedu

Ewedu grows best in moist, loamy soil and needs plenty of sun. It thrives in warm weather and can be harvested multiple times in a season. This leafy green is packed with vitamins A and C, great for digestion and weight management.

READ ALSO: The health Benefits of Moringa Leaves

Efo

Efo, which can either be green or shoko, does well in fertile, well-drained soil and needs moderate watering. It enjoys full sun but can also tolerate some shade. It is loaded with iron, supports blood circulation, and strengthens the immune system.

All these edible perennial plants thrive well with the Nigerian weather. Plus, in this economy where price of consumables are increasingly getting hiked, it’s only wise to ensure that certain essentials can be got from your garden without so much effort. The plants are easy to cultivate and they thrive well with the right soil and care so you can enjoy fresh vegetables and herbs all year round.