Published May 16, 2023
Perennial crops can be produced once a year and require no additional effort to be grown again. In addition, these plants can live for a period exceeding two years. As a consequence, the Perennial group includes a wide range of crops.
The origins of perennial agriculture can be traced back 11,000 years. Humans were forced to remain in a specific location due to the favourable crop cycles of those regions. This had a significant impact on civilisation since it constrained them to a single place.
Among the many crops available, five varieties of perennial crops are the most common- Woody Perennials, Herbaceous Perennials, Deciduous Perennials, Monocarpic Perennials, and Evergreen Perennials.
Because perennial crops cover the uppermost layer of soil, they prevent soil erosion. It also helps in reducing carbon emissions and can handle global warming. In addition, because of their high yields, perennial crops can be grown for food security.
Herbaceous plants such as Chrysanthemums, Columbines, Larkspurs, and Primroses are a few examples of perennials. As a result, perennial crops play an important role in contributing to a country's gross agricultural production.
There are a large number of perennial vegetables like Rhubarb, Asparagus, Broccoli, Spinach, Watercress, Yam, Artichoke, Chives, Sorrel etc. These vegetables help in balancing nature and result in higher yields.