Vegetables That Grow On Trees
Vegetables are a key ingredient in healthy diets and are abundant in many backyards and home gardens. But surprisingly, some vegetables can even be found growing directly on a tree!
Fruits vs. Vegetables
It’s important to distinguish between fruits and vegetables. While they are both nutritious and provide a number of vitamins and minerals, fruits are usually considered as delicious snacks and desserts, while vegetables are typically thought of as ingredients for dishes. Technically, fruits are defined as a seed-bearing structure that develops from the ovary of a flowering plant. This means that many vegetables which are widely enjoyed raw, such as tomatoes and avocados, are technically considered fruits.
Trees That Bear Vegetable Produce
Below are some of the vegetables that can be found growing on trees:
- Tomatoes – Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium and can be found growing on trees in warmer climates. The fruits are typically picked while they are still slightly green as they will ripen after being picked.
- Okra – Okra, also known as ladies’ fingers, is popularly used in Indian and African dishes. Okra pods grow directly on tree branches and can be harvested when they reach a similar length as a pencil.
- Avocados – Avocados are one of the more popular fruits-that-are-vegetables and grow directly on trees. They can be harvested when they are still firm or when they are close to ripening; they will ripen after being picked.
- Jicama – Jicama is a root vegetable grown in Mexico and other Latin American countries. The root is edible and sweet and can be found on trees that can grow up to 11 feet tall.
Tips for Growing Vegetables On Trees
While it’s possible to grow a few vegetables on trees, they may need extra care to ensure that the fruits are safe to eat. Here are some tips for growing vegetables on trees:
- Check for signs of disease and insect infestation. Both of these can affect the safety of the fruits or vegetables.
- Choose vegetables that are known to be drought-tolerant and can cope with heavy winds if you live in an area with a more extreme climate.
- Fertilize trees regularly to ensure that the vegetables are getting the essential nutrients they need to survive.
- Harvest vegetables when they are ripe and ready to be eaten. Overripe fruits can be dangerous to consume, so it’s important to keep an eye on the produce.
Conclusion
Surprisingly, there are a few vegetables that can be found growing directly on trees. Tomatoes, okra, avocados and jicama are among the most popular choices and they can provide a nutritious addition to any meal. However, extra care should be taken to ensure that the fruits and vegetables are safe to eat.
