10 Quick Growing Plants for Impatient Little Gardeners | Kids Growing City

Do you have an impatient gardener at home? Maybe you're eager to see some green sprout from the soil, or perhaps you're working with a short growing season. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just dipping your toes into the world of gardening with your children, finding vegetables that grow quickly can be a game-changer. That's why we've put together this list of 10 quick-growing plants that are perfect for impatient little gardeners.

What Does "Quick Growing" Really Mean?

When we talk about quick-growing vegetables, we're referring to plants that have relatively short growing cycles. These are the veggies that go from seed to harvest in a matter of weeks rather than months. For kids, this means they get to see tangible results for their efforts in a short amount of time, keeping their enthusiasm high and their interest piqued.

Seasonal Timing of Each Plant

Understanding the seasonal timing of each plant is crucial for successful gardening. While some vegetables thrive in the cooler months of spring and fall, others prefer the heat of summer. By selecting the right plants for the right season, you can maximize your harvest and keep your little gardeners engaged year-round.
Now, let's dive into our list of 10 quick-growing plants:

1. Radishes

• Radishes are root vegetables known for their crisp texture and peppery flavor. They are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, typically maturing in about 3-4 weeks after planting. Radishes prefer cooler temperatures and can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring or late summer. They are versatile in the kitchen and can be eaten raw in salads, pickled, or cooked in various dishes. Kids can see tangible results of their efforts in a short time, keeping them engaged and excited about gardening.

2. Green Beans

• Green beans, also known as string beans or snap beans, are tender, elongated pods with tiny seeds inside. They are quick to sprout and mature, typically ready for harvest in 50-60 days after planting. Green beans come in both bush and pole varieties, with pole beans needing support for climbing. They thrive in warm weather and should be planted after the danger of frost has passed, usually in late spring or early summer. For our little gardeners, seeing the beans grow and develop quickly can be incredibly rewarding, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

3. Lettuce

• Lettuce is a leafy green vegetable prized for its tender leaves and mild flavor. It is one of the easiest and fastest-growing vegetables, with some varieties ready for harvest in as little as 3-4 weeks. Lettuce prefers cooler temperatures and can be planted early in the spring or late in the summer for a fall harvest. There are several types of lettuce, including looseleaf, romaine, and iceberg, each offering a unique texture and flavor profile. Children can enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting fresh, crispy leaves for salads and sandwiches in no time.

4. Spinach

• Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green vegetable known for its dark green, crinkled leaves. It is quick to mature, with some varieties ready for harvest in about 4-6 weeks. Spinach prefers cooler temperatures and can be planted early in the spring or late in the summer for a fall harvest. It is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to salads, soups, and smoothies. Its rapid growth rate is ideal for kids who want to enjoy nutrient-packed greens without the long wait.

5. Arugula

• Arugula, also known as rocket or roquette, is a leafy green vegetable with a peppery, slightly bitter flavor. It is quick to sprout and mature, typically ready for harvest in 3-4 weeks. Arugula prefers cooler temperatures and can be planted early in the spring or late in the summer for a fall harvest. It adds a unique flavor to salads, sandwiches, and pizzas and is often used as a garnish. Making it perfect for the kids eager to add a peppery kick to their salads and dishes.
  

6. Snap Peas

• Snap Peas are edible podded peas with plump pods and sweet, crunchy peas inside. They are quick to sprout and mature, typically ready for harvest in 60-70 days after planting. Snap Peas prefer cooler temperatures and can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring. They are delicious eaten fresh off the vine or added to stir-fries and salads. Kids will love watching the vines climb and the pods plump up, providing a satisfying harvest.

7. Scallions

• Scallions, also known as green onions or spring onions, are young onions harvested before the bulb has fully formed. They are quick to sprout and mature, typically ready for harvest in 60-70 days after planting. Scallions can be planted early in the spring or late in the summer for a continuous harvest throughout the season. They add a mild onion flavor to salads, soups, and stir-fries and can be used as a garnish. Providing a quick-growing option for adding flavor to our little gardeners dishes.

8. Baby Carrots

• Baby Carrots are miniature carrots harvested when they are still small and tender. They are quick to mature, typically ready for harvest in about 30-40 days after planting. Baby Carrots prefer cooler temperatures and can be planted early in the spring or late in the summer for a continuous harvest. They are sweet and crunchy, perfect for snacking, roasting, or adding to salads. Kids will delight in pulling up the small, tender carrots from the soil.

9. Radish Microgreens

• Radish Microgreens are the young, tender shoots of radish plants harvested when they are just a few inches tall. They are incredibly quick to grow, typically ready for harvest in just 7-10 days after planting. Radish Microgreens can be grown indoors year-round and are packed with nutrients and flavor. They add a spicy kick to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies and are a popular choice for homegrown sprouts. Kids will enjoy seeing the rapid growth and vibrant green leaves emerge in a matter of days.

10. Herbs (Basil, Cilantro, Dill)

• Basil, Cilantro, and Dill are aromatic herbs prized for their fresh flavors and culinary versatility. They are quick to sprout and mature, typically ready for harvest in 3-4 weeks after planting. Herbs prefer warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight, making them ideal for growing indoors or outdoors in the summer months. They can be used fresh or dried to add flavor to a wide range of dishes, including pasta sauces, salads, marinades, and soups. Children will appreciate the rapid growth and the ability to add fresh flavor to their meals in a short amount of time.

By choosing these quick-growing plants, impatient gardeners—especially children—can experience the joy of gardening without the frustration of long waiting periods. Witnessing the rapid growth and abundant harvests of these plants will keep them engaged, excited, and eager to continue their gardening journey.