Horticultural Classification of Vegetables in Agriculture (Part 1)

Vegetable Classification Based on Life

In agriculture, vegetables are also classified on the basis of the life cycle they exhibit. On life cycle basis, there are three types of vegetables. These are Annual vegetables, Biennial vegetables and Perennial vegetables.

Annual Vegetables or Annuals: Those vegetables, that complete their one life cycle i.e. from seed to stem and leaves, then vegetables and again seed in one or single growing season are called as Annual vegetables. More precisely, the vegetables in which all organs like roots, stems and leaves die at the end of the season are called as Annual vegetables. In agriculture, these vegetables are either selected for summer or fall season. Good examples of Annual vegetable are Tomatoes and Peas.

Biennial Vegetables or Biennials: The vegetables that need two growing seasons from seed to flowering are known as Biennial vegetables in agriculture. During the first season of their life cycle, biennial vegetables are harvested and flowers are not seen. In the second growing season, they produce flowers and seeds. After seeds, the mother plant dies. This means, Biennial vegetable are only edible during first season of their vegetative growth. They become inedible during second season. So in horticultural sciences, these are treated as annuals also. Examples of Biennial vegetables include Cabbage, Parsnip, Kohlrabi, Chard, Collard, Leeks, Onions etc.

Perennial Vegetables or Perennials: The vegetables that have a life cycle of more than 2 years are known as Perennial vegetables. These vegetables have long span of time. In some cases, the top portion of the plant dies and in the favorable conditions of next year, they grow again. Perennial vegetables are also grown as ground cover to control erosion.

Before growing Perennial vegetables in your vegetable garden or agriculture fields, think strategically. Plant them in a manner so that they don’t create any disturbance while land preparation and management for annuals plants or crops. Perennial vegetables need regular pruning to control excessive or unnecessary growth and to remove dead parts. Examples of Perennial vegetables are Rhubarb, Horseradish, Globe Artichokes, Asparagus etc.

Also Read: Horticultural Classification of Vegetables in Agriculture (Part 2)

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