Cut and come again vegetables are those which can be harvested at seedling, semi-mature and mature stages of growth. They can be sown directly in the garden plot in rows or used as under plantings for larger vegetables. Many may also be planted in containers.
Most vegetables which fall under the heading of cut and come again are leafy greens. However, vegetables like squash and cucumbers can also be considered cut and come again. If these are harvested regularly, they continue to provide fruit over a very long period.
This plant is one which most people are familiar with. It has a spicy, earthy, nutty flavor and is used to add zing to salads. Leaves are dark green and can be cut several times through the growing season. Grow in average garden soil in full sun. Water regularly but do not overwater.
A winter broccoli planted in late winter or very early spring. After the main stem is cut this favorite provides many side shoots throughout the rest of the season. The variety ‘Broccoli de Cico’ is a pleasant tasting Italian broccoli which produces many side shoots after main shoot is cut. Grow in well drained fertile soil in full sun. Water regularly for continuous side shoots.
Cut main stem when it reaches about 15 inches tall. Check the stem for new leaves and cut near one of the lowest leaf nodes to stimulate new growth. This is a favorite in Asian cooking. Grow as you would other broccoli.
A very flavorful gourmet green. Corn Salad has tender leaves that are shiny, elongated and oval-shaped with a minty flavor. Wonderful added to fresh salads. Grow in average garden soil in full sun. Average water needs. This plant has survived in the wild for thousands of years so it is not too fussy about growing conditions.
According to WH Foods, Kale is very nutritious, has powerful antioxidant properties and is also considered an anti-inflammatory. Leaves can be cut early and often for use in salads. Mature leaves are not as good in salads and should be cooked. Grow in well drained, fertile soil in full sun and water regularly.
Commonly known as Japanese Mustard Spinach it is traditionally used in Japanese cooking as early as three to four weeks after planting. Several cuttings can be made from this plant throughout the season. Grow in average garden soil in full sun. Average water needs.
Loose-leaf lettuces are easy to grow and can be cut over and over again throughout the growing season. Many lettuces will grow through winter with a little protection from hard freezes and may therefore be enjoyed all year long. For bright green leaves try the varieties; ‘Green Salad Bowl’ which has long leaves with deep cuts in sides and ‘Can Can’ which has frilly leaves. Adding red to the salad bowl is easy with ‘Merlot’ and ‘Red Salad Bowl’. The French lettuces; ‘Sierra’ and ‘Loma’ are favored for their crispness. Lettuce like cool weather and will bolt when weather warms. Grow in rich soil in full sun or partial shade and give plenty of water regularly.
Very tasty dark green leaves are sweet and mild with a little ‘bite’. This is a good choice for people who dislike the strong flavor of arugula. Several cuttings can be made from this plant during growing season. Grow in average garden soil in full sun and water regularly.
This plant is a leafy type of chicory and is also known as Italian chicory. It is spicy and some consider it bitter when eaten raw in salads. The red leaves with white veins can be cooked to diminish bitterness. Leaves are very tasty when grilled with other vegetables and meats. Grow in well drained, fertile soil in full sun and water regularly.
Much like radicchio, chard is bitter when mature and leaves should be cooked, sautéing with other vegetables is easy and makes a nice side dish. Brightly colored young leaves are delicious in salads. Grow in average garden soil in full sun and water regularly.
There are many other vegetables which can be cut throughout the growing season, Many are winter hardy which means they will provide fresh greens right through the cold months of the year.
For more information on growing Asian greens see “How to Grow Asian Greens in Containers.“
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