Spring is the perfect time to get your garden growing, and if you’re looking for fast results, planting quick-growing plants is the way to go. Whether you want to fill in gaps in your garden or enjoy fresh veggies and colorful flowers quickly, plenty of options will thrive when planted early in the season. Here are 25 fast-growing plants to start in early spring that will give you satisfying results quickly!
1. Radishes
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables you can plant in early spring. In just 3-4 weeks, you can harvest these crunchy, peppery roots. Radishes grow well in cool soil, making them perfect for early spring planting. They can be planted in small spaces or even containers, and they don’t require much care, making them ideal for beginners or gardeners looking for a quick return on their efforts.
2. Lettuce
Lettuce is another quick-growing plant that thrives in early spring’s cool temperatures. You can grow varieties like Romaine, Butterhead, or Leaf lettuce, which all mature in about 4-6 weeks. Lettuce loves the cool spring weather and grows quickly, offering you fresh, crisp leaves for salads and sandwiches. It’s perfect for small gardens or raised beds, and you can harvest leaves as they grow for continuous enjoyment.
3. Spinach
Spinach is an easy-to-grow leafy green that produces results in just 4-6 weeks. It thrives in cooler temperatures, making it an ideal crop for early spring planting. Spinach doesn’t require much space; you can grow it in containers, garden beds, or even hanging baskets. It’s perfect for adding to salads, soups, and smoothies, and it grows quickly, providing a bountiful harvest in no time.
4. Peas
Peas are another excellent spring crop, and they grow fast! In about 60 days, you can enjoy fresh, sweet peas straight from your garden. They are perfect for climbing, so you can grow them on a trellis to save space. Peas can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked, and they thrive in cooler spring temperatures. Their vines grow quickly, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious crop in no time.
5. Green Beans
Green beans are fast-growing and easy to plant, making them a great option for beginners. These plants grow quickly in the spring sun and provide fresh beans in about 50-60 days. Beans can be grown on vines, making them great for vertical gardening or trellises. They require minimal care once established, and you’ll have plenty of beans to harvest by mid-summer.
6. Arugula
Arugula is a peppery green that grows quickly, making it a fantastic addition to any spring garden. It matures in just 3-4 weeks, offering a fast turnaround for home gardeners. Arugula grows well in cool temperatures and can be harvested multiple times throughout the season. Its spicy leaves are perfect for adding flavor to salads, sandwiches, and pizzas.
7. Mustard Greens
Mustard greens are fast-growing and ideal for early spring planting. You can expect a harvest in about 4-6 weeks. These leafy greens thrive in cooler temperatures, and they are perfect for adding a spicy flavor to salads, stir-fries, or soups. Mustard greens grow quickly and are an excellent choice for gardeners looking for fast-growing, nutrient-dense plants.
8. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only beautiful but fast-growing as well. These flowers bloom in as little as 4-6 weeks and are perfect for adding vibrant color to your garden. They thrive in poor soil and can tolerate drought, making them a great choice for low-maintenance gardening. Nasturtiums are edible and can be used in salads or as garnishes, adding a peppery flavor to your dishes.
9. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are classic, fast-growing plants that will greatly impact your garden. Many varieties of sunflowers can grow from seed to bloom in as little as 60-70 days. These cheerful flowers love the sun and can grow quickly, providing beauty and a stunning display of color. Plant sunflowers early in the spring for a burst of summer joy in your garden.
10. Marigolds
Marigolds are colorful, cheerful flowers that grow quickly, often blooming in as little as 6 weeks. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil and are perfect for brightening garden beds, borders, or containers. Marigolds are also known for their pest-repelling properties, making them a natural companion plant for other vegetables and flowers.
11. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are another fast-growing vegetable that thrives in the spring. These vines can grow quickly, producing fruit in as little as 50-70 days, depending on the variety. Cucumbers grow best in warm soil, and they thrive when given plenty of sunlight and water. Once established, cucumbers grow rapidly and provide a refreshing harvest in no time.
12. Calendula
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a fast-growing flower that can bloom in as little as 6 weeks. These bright, yellow, and orange flowers thrive in the sun and can be grown in almost any soil. Calendulas are beautiful and beneficial for your garden, as their petals can be used in medicinal teas and oils. These flowers are perfect for creating a colorful, low-maintenance garden.
13. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a leafy green that grows quickly and produces beautiful, colorful stalks. This plant matures in about 50-60 days and thrives in cooler temperatures, making it perfect for early spring planting. Swiss chard is highly nutritious and can be harvested as baby greens or allowed to mature for larger leaves. It’s great for adding color and flavor to salads and cooked dishes.
14. Beets
Beets are fast-growing root vegetables that can be ready to harvest in as little as 50-60 days. These vibrant vegetables are perfect for early spring planting and thrive in cooler soil temperatures. You can enjoy both the roots and the greens of beets, making them a versatile addition to your garden. Beets grow quickly and can provide both a nutrient-rich crop and a beautiful burst of color in your garden.
15. Peppers
Peppers can be a bit slower to start, but they grow quickly once they are established. With the right conditions, peppers can produce fruit in about 60-80 days. Start them early in the spring to enjoy a long harvest season. Peppers love the warmth, and with plenty of sunlight, they will grow quickly and yield vibrant, flavorful fruits for your dishes.
16. Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is a favorite fast-growing vegetable that can be harvested in about 60-90 days. Corn thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for planting early in the spring. Sweet corn grows quickly, providing an abundant harvest by mid-summer. It's also a fun plant for kids to grow, as the tall, sturdy stalks impact the garden.
17. Kale
Kale is a hardy, fast-growing green that thrives in early spring. In just 50-60 days, you can begin harvesting kale leaves. This plant grows quickly and continues producing even after it has been picked. Kale loves the cooler temperatures of spring and will add a rich, nutrient-packed green to your garden. It’s perfect for salads, smoothies, or as a cooked vegetable.
18. Fennel
Fennel is a fast-growing herb that thrives in early spring. It can be ready to harvest in 60-90 days and is perfect for adding a mild, licorice-like flavor to your meals. Fennel grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, and it can be used in both culinary and medicinal applications. Its feathery fronds and aromatic bulbs add beauty and flavor to any garden.
19. Okra
Okra is a fast-growing vegetable that thrives in the heat of early spring and summer. In about 50-60 days, okra plants produce beautiful flowers, followed by pods that can be harvested for cooking. Okra is heat-tolerant and perfect for warmer climates. It grows quickly and produces high yields, making it a great addition to any spring garden.
20. Lettuce Mixes
Growing lettuce in mixes of different varieties can be a great way to get quick results. With a blend of different types of lettuce, you can have a steady harvest in just 4-6 weeks. These lettuce mixes are perfect for early spring planting, as they grow quickly in cool weather and can be harvested as baby greens. Enjoy fresh salads in no time with minimal effort.
21. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a fast-growing, nutritious vegetable that thrives in the warm early spring weather. They can be harvested in about 90-120 days depending on the variety. Plant them early in the spring to give them enough time to grow before the summer heat. Sweet potatoes are versatile, offering a delicious crop of roots and vines for your meals and garden.
22. Zucchini
Zucchini is a popular, fast-growing vegetable that thrives in early spring. In just 50-60 days, you can enjoy fresh zucchini in your garden. Zucchini grows quickly and produces an abundant harvest, making it perfect for small gardens. It’s versatile and can be used in various dishes, from stir-fries to baked goods.
23. Tomatoes
Although Tomatoes may take a little longer to get started, they grow quickly once they are in the ground. Depending on the variety, tomatoes can be ready to harvest in 50-80 days. Start them early in the spring for a long, fruitful harvest. Tomatoes love the warmth, and with the right care, they’ll yield plenty of delicious fruit by mid-summer.
24. Chives
Chives are a fast-growing herb that will thrive in your early spring garden. They’re perfect for planting in small spaces or containers and will provide fresh, flavorful greens in just 3-4 weeks. Chives grow well in full sun and well-drained soil, and their mild onion flavor adds depth to salads, soups, and other dishes.
25. Cilantro
Cilantro is an herb that grows quickly and is perfect for early spring planting. It matures in just 3-4 weeks, allowing you to enjoy fresh cilantro leaves in a short amount of time. Cilantro loves cooler temperatures, so it’s ideal for early spring when the weather is still mild. It’s perfect for adding flavor to salsas, salads, and various dishes.
Fast-Growing Plants for Quick Results This Spring
These fast-growing plants will give you quick results whether you want to fill your garden with vibrant flowers or enjoy fresh vegetables. From leafy greens like lettuce and kale to vibrant flowers and herbs, these plants thrive in early spring and are perfect for starting your garden quickly. Plant these options now, and enjoy a bountiful harvest or colorful blooms in no time!