Fast-Growing Garden: 60 days to Harvest
June 23, 2026

Fast-Growing Garden: 60 days to Harvest

So you missed the ideal planting window for your garden. Or, maybe you did plant your garden but you’re realizing you have some extra space you want to utilize. Or maybe you live in a northern climate where your growing season is quite short. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of garden crops that can be planted and harvested in 60 days or less. Whether you're trying to fill gaps in your pantry, make the most of a short season, or just stretch your grocery budget a little further, fast-growing crops are worth knowing about.


Why Fast Growing Crops?

While tomatoes, pumpkins, and bell peppers tend to shine the most in home gardens, it’s important not to underestimate the more humble crops that have a quick harvest window. Shorter growing cycles mean less risk for gardeners, and you can even squeeze in multiple rounds in one season. Many fast-growing crops are also container friendly and don't need much space. They tend to be beginner friendly too, helping you build real confidence as a gardener. And with a shorter time in the ground, there are simply fewer chances for pests, disease, or bad weather to cause problems.


Leafy Greens

Lettuce, spinach and arugula are all great options for quick maturing crops. They are cold tolerant, container-friendly, and can even be planted in the off-season (spring or fall) as long as temperatures stay above freezing. 


Some Root Crops

Root vegetables such as radishes, baby carrots and turnips are all able to be harvested just 60 days or less after planting the seed. Don’t overlook that you can eat the greens on most of these crops. Additionally, root crops store very well in a cool, dark place so they are a great crop to store for the winter months. 


Herbs

Perfect for containers and adding flavor to your meals,  basil, cilantro, and green onions are incredibly beginner friendly and easy to grow. While herbs aren’t necessarily going to reduce your grocery budget significantly, they can help to improve the taste of simple meals like rice and beans. 


Fast Growing Vegetables

This broad category of crops has quite a few that can be grown within 2 months. For example, many bush beans, zucchini, and even cucumbers can get at least a few fruits ready to go within that time frame. They may need more time to live up to their full harvest potential but they can be a great addition to short season gardens.


Fun Fact: Did you know cucumbers are technically a fruit? Botanically speaking, any plant part that develops from a flower and contains seeds qualifies as a fruit — which means cucumbers, zucchini, and even squash all fit the bill. In cooking we treat them as vegetables, but in the garden they are playing by different rules.


Tips For Maximizing a 60-Day Garden

-Succession Planting: For crops that mature quickly, plant as many rounds as you can spaced 1-2 weeks apart to get multiple harvests

-Soil Quality: Adding compost to your soil can dramatically improve yields on all sorts of crops.

-Consistent Watering: Uneven watering can slow growth down which can be a big deal in short season gardens.

-Indoor Starts: Start from seed indoors before it is time to plant outside in order to extend the growing season as much as possible.

 

Quick and Easy Garden Wins

Growing your own food doesn’t have to take all summer. Many crops can be ready to harvest in 60 days or less. The crops mentioned here are a great way to build a food source at home. They are also perfect for beginners because you can see fast results and build your confidence. Even a small garden bed or a few containers grow more than you would expect. Start simple! Pick a few to try out and, with this home guide you could be harvesting fresh food sooner than you think.

 

Lara Wadsworth is a freelance horticulture writer with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture and over three years of experience creating engaging content about gardening and plant care. As a wife, mom, and dog lover, Lara understands the importance of balancing a busy life with a thriving garden. She values practical advice and effective strategies that empower beginners and experienced gardeners alike to grow with confidence. Through her writing, she aims to inspire others to enjoy the rewards of gardening, no matter their skill level.

 

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