QOTD: Should I grow greens in my garden? I don’t know what that really means.
Answer: Yes! Growing greens simply means growing leaves. It couldn’t be easier. Plant some seeds and cut the leaves when they are the size you want to cook with. Greens can be grown in the tiniest of spaces, they can be cut and regrown, and you can grow them from the coldest spring weather, right through the hottest parts of summer. Check out 5 greens I recommend.
5 Must-Try Varieties of Greens for Your Garden
Gardening isn’t just about tomatoes and cukes. Leafy greens can be grown year round and they offer nutrient dense food in a very small amount of space. If you’re looking to diversify your garden this season, here are five varieties of greens you should consider planting.
1. Kale: ‘Lacinato’
Also known as Dinosaur kale or Tuscan kale, ‘Lacinato’ kale features dark blue-green leaves with a slightly wrinkled and firm texture. It’s not just a hardy plant able to withstand colder temperatures; its rich, slightly earthy flavor enhances dishes both cooked and raw. Kale is packed with vitamins and makes a great addition to smoothies, soups, and salads.
2. Spinach: ‘Bloomsdale’
This heirloom variety of spinach is highly regarded for its flavor and texture. ‘Bloomsdale’ spinach has crinkly, dark green leaves that are very nutritious and best enjoyed when fresh. It grows quickly and is more tolerant of cold than many other spinach varieties, making it a great choice for early spring and late fall planting.
3. Swiss Chard: ‘Bright Lights’
Swiss chard is not only nutritious but also visually stunning, and ‘Bright Lights’ features stems in a rainbow of colors from red to orange to yellow, all bright and vibrant. The leaves are tender and have a flavor similar to beet greens. It’s a versatile green that can be used in stir-fries, sautéed, or added to salads.
4. Arugula: ‘Rocket’
For those who love a peppery kick, ‘Rocket’ arugula is a must-grow. This green grows quickly and adds a spicy, nutty flavor to salads and pizzas. It’s particularly favored for its cut-and-come-again nature, allowing multiple harvests from the same plant. Arugula is also packed with antioxidants and is a great choice for a fast-growing crop.
5. Collard Greens: ‘Georgia Southern’
A staple in Southern cooking, ‘Georgia Southern’ is a traditional variety known for its large, dark, blue-green leaves and frost tolerance. This type of collard greens is rich in flavor and nutrients, ideal for long cooking dishes such as stews and braises. They’re also delicious when young and tender if you prefer them in a fresher, salad-like state.
Wrapping It Up
Growing a variety of greens not only enriches your diet but also beautifies your garden with different textures and colors. Each of these varieties brings its own unique flavor and growing characteristics, making your gardening more enjoyable and your cooking more diverse. So, why not try something new this season and add some of these splendid greens to your garden plots?
