When it comes to gardening, not everyone has the time or patience to wait months for a harvest.
Whether you’re a beginner, short on growing season, or just eager to enjoy homegrown produce as soon as possible, choosing fast-growing vegetables can help you reap the rewards of your hard work in record time.
Some vegetables grow so quickly that you can begin harvesting in just a couple of weeks, making them perfect for continuous planting, small gardens, raised beds, and container gardening.
This guide covers the top 15 fastest growing vegetables you can harvest in no time, including their average harvest times, ideal growing conditions, and tips to get the best yields.
1. Radishes (18–30 days)
Radishes are one of the quickest vegetables to grow, with some varieties ready to harvest in as little as 18 days. They thrive in cool weather and can be planted in both spring and fall.
Sow directly into loose soil
Space 1 inch apart
Keep soil moist for best flavor
Varieties like ‘Cherry Belle’ and ‘French Breakfast’ are reliable and quick to mature.
2. Arugula (20–30 days)
Also known as rocket, arugula is a peppery leafy green that grows fast and can be harvested within three to four weeks.
Prefers cool temperatures
Great for cut-and-come-again harvest
Best grown in partial sun during hot months
Snip young leaves as needed to enjoy tender, zesty greens in salads and sandwiches.
3. Lettuce (30–50 days)
Leaf lettuce varieties grow quickly and can be harvested in stages. You can begin picking baby leaves in as little as three weeks.
Grows well in containers
Prefers cooler temps but tolerates some heat
Needs consistent moisture
Try varieties like ‘Buttercrunch,’ ‘Red Sails,’ or ‘Black Seeded Simpson.’
