The crops that save the most money

Not every vegetable is worth the space. The best-value crops are expensive at the store, productive in a small space, and something you actually eat.

Usually great value

• Herbs: basil, parsley, cilantro, chives, mint (in a pot, it spreads)
• Salad greens and lettuce you can cut again and again
• Cherry and slicing tomatoes
• Zucchini and summer squash
• Peppers, especially colored and hot peppers
• Green beans and snap peas
• Kale and Swiss chard

Often not worth the space

• Potatoes, onions and carrots in small gardens (cheap to buy)
• Corn, which needs a lot of room
• Anything your household doesn't eat

General educational information. Growing conditions vary; check with your local Cooperative Extension office. Nickel Harvest isn't paid by any seed company, garden brand or store.