10 Essential Vegetables Every Beginner Should Grow

1. Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are more reliable than large beefsteak varieties and produce abundantly throughout the summer. They're relatively disease-resistant and incredibly rewarding.

Plant them in full sun, provide support with cages or stakes, and water consistently. Verdy will remind you when to water based on weather conditions.

2. Lettuce

Lettuce grows quickly (ready in 30-45 days) and doesn't require much space. You can even grow it in containers on a balcony.

Plant in early spring or fall for best results. Harvest outer leaves continuously for a 'cut and come again' approach.

3. Radishes

The fastest vegetable in your garden! Radishes are ready to harvest in just 25-30 days, making them perfect for impatient beginners.

They also help break up soil and can be planted between slower-growing vegetables as markers.

4. Zucchini

Zucchini plants are vigorous and productive—sometimes too productive! One plant can feed a small family all summer.

Give them plenty of space (3-4 feet between plants) and harvest regularly when fruits are 6-8 inches long.

5. Green Beans

Bush beans are especially easy for beginners—they don't need staking and produce heavily for 2-3 weeks.

Plant beans after the soil warms up in late spring. They fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting neighboring plants.

Other Beginner-Friendly Vegetables

Once you master the first five, try adding these to your garden:

• Cucumbers - similar care to zucchini with refreshing harvests
• Swiss Chard - beautiful, nutritious, and more heat-tolerant than spinach
• Peas - sweet and easy to grow in cool weather
• Carrots - require loose soil but are otherwise low-maintenance
• Herbs (basil, cilantro, parsley) - compact, useful, and aromatic

Setting Yourself Up for Success

The key to beginner success isn't just choosing the right vegetables—it's having the right support system. Track your watering schedule, know when to harvest, and get alerts about weather that might affect your plants.

Verdy takes the guesswork out of timing and care requirements, letting you focus on enjoying the process of growing your own food.