The Best 8 Fast-Growing Vegetables In Just 45 Days!

Let’s face it—waiting months for a harvest can test anyone’s patience, especially if you’re just getting started or have a packed schedule. That’s where fast-growing vegetables come to the rescue! They’re perfect for beginners learning the ropes, gardeners short on time, or those of us working with short growing seasons. Whether you’re trying to stretch your food budget or craving the satisfaction of seeing your hard work pay off quickly, these speedy veggies are a real breakthrough. They’re proof that gardening doesn’t have to be a waiting game—it can offer quick wins that boost your confidence and keep you motivated.

What I Will Cover

In this article, I’ll introduce you to some of my favorite fast-growing vegetables that are as rewarding as they are easy to grow. Think crisp radishes ready in just a few weeks, tender greens that seem to grow overnight, and vibrant zucchini that practically appear out of nowhere. Each vegetable I’ll cover has its unique perks—whether it’s a super-short growth cycle, minimal care requirements, or versatility in the kitchen.

By the time we’re done, you’ll have everything you need to start your own speedy garden and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce in no time!

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1. Microgreens – Harvest in Days, Not Weeks

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What Are Microgreens?

If you’ve ever seen those vibrant, tiny greens sprinkled on a fancy dish or piled onto a sandwich, you’ve met microgreens! These are the tender, nutrient-packed baby versions of vegetables and herbs like broccoli, radish, and mustard. Packed with flavor and a punch of vitamins, microgreens are a powerhouse addition to any meal. Don’t let their size fool you—they’re mighty little greens that deliver big on taste and nutrition, making them a favorite among home gardeners and foodies alike.

Why They’re Perfect for Quick Harvests

One of the best things about microgreens is how fast they grow. If you’re eager to harvest something fresh but don’t want to wait weeks or months, these are your go-to greens. In as little as 7 to 14 days, you can be snipping your first crop and adding it to your meals. That’s right—from seed to plate in just two weeks! They’re perfect for impatient gardeners (like me!) or anyone looking to boost their diet with homegrown goodness, even in the dead of winter.

How to Grow Microgreens

Growing microgreens is one of the easiest gardening projects you’ll ever tackle. Start with seeds like broccoli, radish, or mustard—these are some of my favorites for flavor and ease. All you need is a shallow tray, a bit of potting soil or a growing mat, and a sunny windowsill or grow light. Sprinkle the seeds evenly, water gently, and watch the magic happen! Whether you’re growing them indoors or out, microgreens adapt beautifully to any space.

Tips for Maximizing Yield

To get the most out of your microgreens, use a tray with good drainage and spread your seeds evenly to avoid overcrowding. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and make sure your greens get plenty of light to grow strong and vibrant. A south-facing window or an inexpensive grow light works wonders. And here’s a pro tip: harvest your greens with sharp scissors right above the soil line, and you’ll have a crisp, flavorful crop every time!

Get Your Microgreens!

2. Arugula – Peppery Greens in a Hurry

What Makes Arugula Unique?

Arugula is a garden superstar with a bold, peppery flavor that brings a burst of personality to any dish. Whether you toss it into a salad, layer it on a sandwich, or use it to top a pizza, arugula adds a zesty kick that’s hard to beat. Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths—you can enjoy it raw, sautéed, or blended into a vibrant pesto. If you love greens with character, arugula is your perfect match!

Growing Arugula in 30 Days

Growing arugula is a breeze, and you can have a harvest-ready in just 30 days. This cool-season crop thrives in temperatures between 50–65°F, making spring and fall ideal planting times. It loves partial shade, so it’s great for spots that don’t get full sun all day. Plant it in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil, and keep it evenly watered to avoid bitterness. With minimal effort, you’ll soon have a lush bed of spicy greens to enjoy!

Harvesting and Using Arugula

One of my favorite things about arugula is the cut-and-come-again harvesting method. Once the leaves reach about 3–4 inches tall, use scissors to snip what you need, leaving the base of the plant intact. This way, the arugula keeps growing, giving you multiple harvests from the same plants. Use it fresh for the best flavor or store it in the fridge for a few days. Whether it’s in a salad, wrap, or your favorite pasta dish, arugula is a delicious and nutritious addition!

Get Your Arugula!

3. Carrots – Sweet and Crunchy in Record Time

Fast-Growing Varieties

If you’re looking for carrots that don’t make you wait, fast-growing varieties like Nantes or Parisian are your best bet. Nantes carrots are sweet and tender, with a cylindrical shape that’s perfect for slicing or snacking. Parisian carrots, on the other hand, are adorable little round carrots that grow well even in containers or rocky soil. Both types mature quickly, so you can enjoy fresh, homegrown carrots in as little as 45 days. Perfect for impatient gardeners or those working with a short growing season!

Tips for Rapid Carrot Growth

Carrots grow best when they’re pampered a little, and soil preparation is key to speeding things up. Make sure the soil is loose, well-draining, and free of stones—those sneaky obstacles can cause your carrots to grow crooked or stunted. Keep the soil evenly moist with regular watering to encourage steady, uniform growth. Don’t forget to thin out the seedlings early on; overcrowding can slow their development and leave you with tiny, underwhelming carrots.

How to Know When They’re Ready

Carrots can be a little shy about telling you they’re ready, but there are signs to look for. After about 45 days, check the tops of the carrot shoulders peeking out of the soil. If they’re the size you want, gently tug one out to see how it’s doing. Nantes and Parisian varieties are often ready when they’re around 4–6 inches long (or a cute, round size for Parisian). If they look good, it’s harvest time! Freshly pulled carrots taste sweeter than anything you’ll find in the store.

Learn more about how I grow my carrots by clicking here!

Get Your Carrots!

4. Lettuce – Crisp and Fresh in a Flash

Why Lettuce Is a Quick-Win Crop

If you’re craving a gardening success story in record time, lettuce is your answer! With leaf varieties ready to harvest in just 30–45 days, it’s one of the fastest crops you can grow. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, lettuce is a dependable choice that delivers fresh, crisp greens in no time. Plus, its versatility in the kitchen—think salads, wraps, and sandwiches—makes it an essential addition to any garden.

Best Types to Plant

When it comes to choosing lettuce, you can’t go wrong with Buttercrunch, romaine, or loose-leaf varieties. Buttercrunch is a favorite for its tender texture and buttery flavor, while romaine offers a satisfying crunch and works perfectly for Caesar salads. Loose-leaf varieties, like oakleaf or green leaf, are some of the fastest-growing options and are ideal for frequent harvests. Each type brings its unique qualities to the table, so why not grow a mix for variety?

Tips for Faster Growth

To speed up your lettuce-growing journey, start by planting the seeds shallowly—just a quarter-inch below the soil. This encourages quicker germination, so you see those little sprouts pop up sooner. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as lettuce loves even hydration. Once your plants are growing, practice regular harvesting by snipping the outer leaves. This not only gives you fresh greens, but also keeps the plant producing more for weeks to come. A win-win for your garden and your meals!

Get Your Lettuce!

5. Radishes – The Ultimate Speedy Vegetable

Fast and Easy to Grow

Radishes are one of the quickest and easiest vegetables you can grow, with a harvest time of just 20–30 days! If you’re looking to get your garden off to a fast start, radishes are the perfect crop to plant. Whether you’re an impatient gardener or simply want a quick reward, these spicy little roots are ready to harvest before you know it. Plus, they thrive in almost any garden space, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Radishes love cool temperatures, making them an ideal crop for early spring or fall planting. They grow best in soil that is well-drained and loose, which allows their roots to expand properly. Make sure to avoid heavy, compacted soil, as it can stunt their growth and lead to misshapen radishes. Consistent watering is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, ensuring your radishes grow quickly and develop that crisp, refreshing flavor.

Creative Uses for Radishes

Radishes are so much more than a salad topping! While they’re delicious and fresh, there are so many creative ways to enjoy them. Try roasting them with a bit of olive oil and seasoning for a sweet, mellow flavor. Pickling radishes is another great option, giving them a tangy bite that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just as a snack. You can also add them to stir-fries, and soups, or even use them as a garnish for a pop of color and crunch. The possibilities are endless!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While radishes are generally easy to grow, they can have a few challenges. Bolting, or going to seed too early, is a common issue when temperatures get too hot. To avoid this, try planting radishes in early spring or late summer when the weather is cooler. You may also encounter pests like flea beetles, which can cause small holes in your radish leaves. To combat this, consider using row covers to protect your plants or apply natural insect deterrents like neem oil. With a little care and attention, you can keep your radishes growing strong and healthy!

Get Your Radishes!

6. Spinach – Nutrient-Dense and Fast-Growing

Why Spinach Should Be in Your Garden

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium, making it a must-have for any garden. Not only is it incredibly good for you, but it’s also ready to harvest in just 30–40 days, which means you don’t have to wait long to enjoy the benefits. Whether you’re tossing it into salads, blending it into smoothies, or sautéing it as a side dish, spinach is versatile and a fantastic addition to your meals. Plus, it grows quickly, so you can enjoy fresh, homegrown greens in no time!

Growing Tips for Success

For the best results, start your spinach early in the season when temperatures are still cool. Spinach thrives in these conditions, growing quickly when the weather is between 50–60°F. It’s also important to water your spinach consistently, as uneven moisture can cause it to bolt (go to seed prematurely), which can make the leaves bitter. A little extra attention to the basics—like providing rich, well-draining soil and steady watering—will help you grow lush, flavorful spinach that’s perfect for your kitchen.

Prolonging the Harvest

The great thing about spinach is that you can harvest it multiple times with the cut-and-come-again method. This means you can snip the outer leaves when they’re big enough to use, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. By regularly harvesting, you encourage the plant to produce more leaves, giving you a continuous supply of fresh spinach throughout the growing season. This method is a significant advantage for those of us who want to enjoy homegrown spinach without waiting for a full regrowth cycle!

Get your Spinach!

7. Squash – Quick-Growing Summer Varieties

Fast-Growing Varieties to Try

If you’re looking to add squash to your garden and want quick results, zucchini, and pattypan squash are fantastic choices. Zucchini is known for its rapid growth and abundant harvest, often ready in as little as 50–60 days. Pattypan squash, with its cute, scalloped edges, also matures quickly and adds a unique shape to your garden. Both types thrive in the right conditions, giving you lots of tender, delicious squash to enjoy. Plus, they’re super versatile in the kitchen, perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing!

How to Speed Up Squash Growth

To speed up your squash growth, start by planting your seeds in warm soil—ideally around 70°F or higher. Squash plants love full sunlight, so choose a spot that gets at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day to help them grow quickly. It’s also essential to space the plants properly, giving each one enough room to spread out. Crowded plants can stunt growth and increase the risk of disease. By providing optimal growing conditions, your squash will thrive and give you an abundant harvest in no time!

Harvesting Young Squash

One of the best tips I can offer when growing squash is to harvest them while they’re still young and tender. When you pick squash at the right size, usually when they’re about 4–6 inches long, they’re much more flavorful and tender compared to older, larger squash. Plus, harvesting early encourages the plant to produce more, meaning you get a continuous supply of fresh squash. This approach not only ensures the best eating quality, but also helps keep your plants producing all season long!

Get Your Squash!

8. Tomatoes – Quick-Yielding Varieties

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

When it comes to fast harvests, cherry and grape tomatoes are perfect choices for any garden. Varieties like Tiny Tim and Sungold are particularly well-known for their quick turnaround, often ready to pick in just 50–60 days. These smaller tomatoes grow fast and pack a ton of flavor into every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh, in salads, or snacking straight off the vine, they’re a great way to get that homegrown tomato flavor without the long wait. The best part? These varieties can even thrive in containers if you’re short on space!

How to Speed Up Tomato Growth

If you’re eager for a quicker tomato harvest, starting with transplants rather than seeds is the fastest route to harvest. Transplants give your plants a head start, meaning you’ll get fruit much earlier. When planting, consider using supports like cages or stakes to help your plants grow upward instead of sprawling out. This not only saves space, but also keeps the plants healthy by preventing the fruit from sitting on the ground, which can lead to rot or pest problems. With a little care and the right support, your tomatoes will grow faster and produce more!

When to Harvest

Knowing when to harvest your tomatoes is key to enjoying that sweet, tangy flavor. For fast-maturing varieties like Tiny Tim and Sungold, you’ll want to look for signs of ripeness—a deep, rich color (usually red or golden yellow, depending on the variety), and a slight give when you gently squeeze the fruit. Don’t wait too long, as overripe tomatoes can start to spoil or lose their sweetness. Picking them at the perfect stage ensures they’re at their peak flavor and texture, giving you the best-tasting tomatoes possible. Plus, it encourages the plant to keep producing more!

Get Your Tomatoes!

Conclusion

Summing Up the Speedy Harvests

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these fast-growing vegetables! From radishes that you can harvest in just 20–30 days to zucchini and tomatoes that grow quickly and reward you with fresh produce, these plants are perfect for those who want results in no time. Each vegetable has its unique benefits—spinach provides essential nutrients, arugula adds a bold flavor to your dishes, and microgreens are packed with vitamins. Whether you’re new to gardening or an experienced grower, these quick harvests are perfect for getting started and enjoying homegrown produce faster than you thought possible!

I Encourage You to Start Growing!

I know the idea of starting a garden can feel a little intimidating, but the beauty of fast-growing vegetables is that they offer quick wins! Start small—maybe with just a few varieties of lettuce or radishes—and watch how easy it can be to grow your own food. You don’t need a huge garden space to get started; container gardens work perfectly for most of these crops. And don’t be afraid to experiment! Gardening is all about trial and error, and seeing something grow from a tiny seed to a full harvest is incredibly rewarding. So, get your hands in the dirt, and let these speedy growers inspire you!

Share Your Success!

I’d love to hear about your own gardening journey! Share your experiences, tips, or questions in the comments below, and let’s learn from each other. If you’re looking for more helpful gardening advice, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for regular updates, tips, and inspiration. Plus, if you’re ready to take your garden to the next level, download my free PDF gardening guide (Stay Alive with Your Survival Garden: Grow Food In 30 Days!) to help you make the most of your space and grow like a pro. I can’t wait to hear about your gardening successes and help you every step of the way!

Resources: Here are some helpful resources for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I grow fast-growing vegetables indoors?

Absolutely! Vegetables like microgreens, lettuce, and spinach grow well indoors with sufficient light. Use a sunny windowsill or grow lights to ensure they thrive.

2. What’s the easiest fast-growing vegetable for beginners?

Radishes are an excellent choice for beginners. They germinate quickly, require minimal care, and are ready to harvest in just 20–30 days.

3. Do I need special soil for these vegetables?

Most fast-growing vegetables thrive in loose, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Adding compost or a balanced fertilizer can boost growth.

4. How can I keep harvesting these vegetables longer?

Use a cut-and-come-again method for leafy greens like lettuce and spinach. For root crops, stagger your plantings every couple of weeks for continuous harvests.