I’m thrilled to share my top 10 picks for the easiest plants to grow, especially for those of you venturing into the gardening world in the hot, humid South. Whether you’re a brand new gardener or just looking for low-maintenance green buddies, these plants are sure to make your gardening journey a breeze.
10. Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are not only beautiful but also a fantastic choice for beginners. With a quick turnaround and abundant yields, these tomatoes thrive in the South’s warm climate. Their versatility and popularity make them a must-have in any beginner’s garden.
9. Hot Peppers
While I personally prefer sweet peppers, hot peppers make it to the list for being excellent summer survivors. Ideal for preserving, whether through freezing, canning, or drying, hot peppers are easier to grow than their sweeter counterparts.
8. Radishes
Radishes are a beginner’s dream. Easy to start from seed, they grow in small spaces and offer both peppery roots and abundant greens. Experiment with different varieties like Daikon, Cherry Bell, or Watermelon Radish for a tasty twist.
7. Loose Leaf Lettuce
Loose leaf lettuce takes the spotlight at number seven. With a high return on investment and the ability to cut and come again, these greens are a staple in any Southern garden. They grow effortlessly from seed hence it makes the list as the easiest plants, providing multiple harvests.
6. Strawberries
A delightful addition to your garden, strawberries are not only a fruit but also easy to grow in containers. Try varieties like Chandler or Brilliance, ensuring you select those known to thrive in Florida’s climate.
5. Kale
Kale, often slow to bolt, offers a massive harvest from a single plant. With varieties suitable for year-round growth, kale’s versatility makes it a favorite for salads, soups, and stir-fries.
4. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes, with their extended storage life and resilience to summer conditions, are a fantastic addition to your garden. They require minimal care and act as an excellent cover crop, magically amending the soil upon harvest.
3. Green Beans
Quick to germinate and forgiving of neglect, green beans claim the third spot on our list. Their nitrogen-fixing ability makes them an asset to your garden’s soil health. Whether eaten fresh or stored as dry beans, they’re a reliable choice.
2. Pineapples
Yes, you can grow your own pineapples in the South! While it takes a bit of patience (about two years for the first pineapple), their minimal maintenance and ability to multiply through pups make them a worthy addition to your garden.
1. Easiest Plants – Herbs
And here we are, at the top spot for the easiest plants – herbs. While not one plant, herbs as a category are a beginner’s best friend. Most are perennial, offering a continuous harvest with minimal effort. From seasoning your dishes to making medicinal concoctions, herbs are the ultimate confidence builders in gardening. Happy Gardening!
