Top 13 Crops To Plant And Harvest Within 3 Months

Last updated on June 24, 2025

What are the Crops To Plant And Harvest Within 3 Months and harvest? Have you ever thought, “How can I start farming without waiting forever for results?”, ever wished you could start farming without waiting forever for results? I felt the same way. Just a few years ago, eager to get into agriculture but lacking the patience (and budget) for long-term crops, I discovered the power of short-term crops. These are plants you can sow, nurture, and harvest in just three months or less! It’s incredibly rewarding, whether for profit or personal use. This quick-growth approach truly built my confidence and fueled my agricultural journey.

In this guide, I’ll share my experience and actionable tips to help you achieve fresh harvests in no time, exploring some of the best crops to plant for a quick harvest.

What Are Short-Term Crops?

What are short-term crops exactly? They are plants that grow quickly, typically within 60–90 days. This makes them perfect for quick returns on investment or immediate personal use. These farming plants include vegetables, fruits, and herbs that thrive under the right conditions. If you’re starting, they’re a fantastic way to get your hands dirty and see results fast. You’ll find these are quite different from long duration crops examples or long season crops.

Why Choose Crops That Grow Within 3 Months?

When I started farming, limited land, time, and resources were my reality. Fast-maturing crops offered me key advantages, making them the best crop to farm when starting out:

• Immediate results: See your efforts pay off within weeks.
• Low cost of entry: These crops typically require less budget and specialized equipment.
• Steady income: Regular harvests mean consistent cash flow from selling fresh produce.
• Risk-free experimentation: Test different planted crops and techniques without long-term commitment, allowing for quick learning and adaptation. This is how I found the best crop to plant in Nigeria for my context.

My Personal Story: How I Started Small and Grew Big

I began with a small patch in my backyard. My first crops planted were okra and cucumbers. I’ll admit, I made mistakes—like planting too close together—but learning by doing made me a better grower. By my second cycle, I was supplying fresh cucumbers to a local market. The joy of nurturing farm plants and seeing them thrive is unparalleled.

Top 13 Crops To Plant And Harvest Within 3 Months

Growing crops involves more than just planting seeds and waiting for magic. To truly succeed, understanding each crop’s unique requirements, varieties, planting timeline, and care tips is vital. Here are 13 excellent short-term crop choices that demonstrate quick growth, helping you achieve a quick harvest.

1. Cucumber

Quick Facts: Matures rapidly, typically within 40-50 days (6-8 weeks). Harvests can start as early as day 35.

Cucumbers are a highly profitable vegetable, widely used in salads, pickles, and drinks. They grow rapidly with minimal maintenance, making them a safe bet for quick returns. A single vine can produce multiple fruits, yielding a high return on investment. Farmers often sell fresh cucumbers or process them into pickles for added value. Fresh cucumbers last about 7–10 days when properly stored, but quickly lose firmness and freshness beyond that period.

• Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours).
• Varieties:
  • Slicing cucumbers: Thick-skinned, ideal for salads (e.g., Marketmore 76).
  • Pickling cucumbers: Smaller and thinner, perfect for preservation (e.g., Boston Pickling).
  • Seedless or burpless cucumbers: Sweet and easy to digest (e.g., Sweet Success).
• Best Time to Farm: Ideal: Late spring to early summer. Requires: Warm soil (above 20°C or 68°F) and plenty of sunlight.
• Time to Harvest: Harvest within 6–8 weeks of planting.
• How to Grow:
  • Prepare the soil: Use well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
  • Spacing: Sow seeds directly into the ground, 30 cm (12 inches) apart in rows.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. I quickly learned that consistent morning watering truly made a difference in preventing bitterness and promoting juicy fruits.
  • Trellising: Use a trellis to save space and keep fruits clean, which also helps prevent fungal diseases. This was a game-changer for me; it really kept the fruits off the wet ground and minimized rot.
  • Harvesting: Pick when cucumbers are firm and green; avoid leaving them to over-ripen, which makes them bitter.
  • Pest Note: Watch out for cucumber beetles and aphids. I found that a strong spray of water can dislodge aphids, but persistent issues might need neem oil.

2. Okra

Quick Facts: Matures within 40–50 days (6-8 weeks), with harvests from day 35.

Okra, also known as lady’s finger, is a heat-loving plant that produces edible pods. This highly lucrative vegetable is commonly used in soups and stews. It’s easy to manage, making it rare to lose money cultivating, whether commercially or in your garden. From one plant, you can harvest dozens of pods over several weeks, yielding huge returns. Farmers can sell okra fresh, frozen, or dried. Fresh okra lasts about 3–4 days before starting to darken, yellow, or rot if not stored properly.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • Clemson Spineless: Popular and high-yielding.
  • Emerald: Slim, dark-green pods.
  • Annie Oakley II: Early-maturing and compact.
• Best Time to Farm: Plant during late spring or early summer, as okra thrives in temperatures between 25–35°C (77–95°F).
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 6–8 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Choose loamy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5–7.5.
  • Planting: Sow seeds directly in rows 1 meter (3.3 feet) apart, with 30 cm (12 inches) spacing.
  • Watering: Water regularly, but avoid overwatering.
  • Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer after the first blooms appear to encourage pod production. I noticed a significant boost in yield when I started giving them a little extra food right before flowering.
  • Harvesting: Pick pods when they’re 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) long for the best flavor and tenderness. My biggest lesson here was to harvest daily or every other day; if you let them get too big, they become tough and stringy, and the plant slows down production! Harvesting regularly encourages more production.
  • Pest Note: Relatively pest-resistant but keep an eye out for stink bugs.

3. Lettuce

Quick Facts: Matures within 30–40 days (4-6 weeks), allowing for fast and frequent harvests.

This highly marketable leafy vegetable is widely used in salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. It’s easy to cultivate and requires less maintenance, suitable for both commercial and home farming. With proper spacing and care, one seed can yield a whole head or a continuous supply of leaves for weeks. Farmers can sell lettuce fresh, bagged, or even processed into salads. Fresh lettuce can last about a week if refrigerated, but it wilts quickly when left at room temperature. These are truly crops that can be harvested in 30 days.

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade (especially in hot climates).
• Varieties:
  • Romaine: Crunchy and flavorful.
  • Butterhead: Soft, tender leaves (e.g., Bibb).
  • Iceberg: Crisp but mild-flavored.
• Best Time to Farm: Grows best in spring or autumn when temperatures are cool.
• Time to Harvest: Harvest in 4–6 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Prepare the soil: Use loose, nutrient-rich soil.
  • Planting: Sprinkle seeds lightly on the surface and cover with a thin layer of soil.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist. I learned that consistent moisture is key to tender leaves; if they dry out, they can turn bitter quickly.
  • Shade: Provide partial shade in hot climates to prevent bolting (going to seed prematurely and becoming bitter). This was crucial for my summer plantings; without it, the lettuce would just bolt before forming good heads.
  • Harvesting: Pick leaves from the outer layers as needed to allow the plant to continue producing, or harvest the entire head.
  • Pest Note: Protect young plants from slugs and snails. I found beer traps surprisingly effective for slugs!

4. Radish

Quick Facts: Matures very quickly, typically within 21-30 days (3-4 weeks). Harvests can start as early as day 21.

This highly profitable root vegetable boasts a fast-growing nature and wide culinary uses. Radishes require minimal effort, making it uncommon to lose money cultivating them. A single seed produces one crisp root, and you can plant and replant in quick succession for continuous harvests. Farmers can sell radishes fresh or process them into pickles. Fresh radishes last about a week in cool storage but become soft and lose their flavor after that. These are excellent 1 month crops options.

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
• Varieties:
  • Cherry Belle: Round, red roots.
  • French Breakfast: Cylindrical with a mild flavor.
  • Daikon: Long, white roots popular in Asian cuisine.
• Best Time to Farm: Plant in early spring or autumn when temperatures are between 10–20°C (50–68°F).
• Time to Harvest: Ready in just 3–4 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Prepare the soil: Use loose, sandy soil for root development. Avoid rocky soil to prevent misshapen roots. This was a hard lesson for me initially; my first radishes were all twisted and forked because of hard soil.
  • Planting: Sow seeds directly into the soil at 1.5 cm (0.6 inches).
  • Spacing: Allow at least 5 cm (2 inches) between seeds to give roots room to expand.
  • Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Just like lettuce, consistent moisture prevents them from becoming too “hot” or woody.
  • Harvesting: Pull radishes when roots are about 2 cm (0.8 inches) in diameter. Don’t wait too long, or they become woody, hot, and split – I learned that the hard way!
  • Pest Note: Flea beetles can be problematic.

5. Spinach

Quick Facts: Matures rapidly, typically within 30–40 days (4-6 weeks), with leaves ready for harvest in about 3 weeks.

This highly lucrative leafy vegetable is prized for its nutritional value and widespread use in dishes. It grows quickly and thrives in a variety of climates, making it rare to lose money cultivating. A single planting can provide multiple harvests if leaves are picked continuously. Farmers can sell spinach fresh, frozen, or dried for soups and smoothies. Fresh spinach lasts about 5–7 days when refrigerated, but it wilts and spoils faster in warm conditions.

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
• Varieties:
  • Savoy: Dark green, crinkled leaves.
  • Flat-leaf: Smooth leaves, easy to clean (e.g., Space).
  • Baby Spinach: Tender, smaller leaves.
• Best Time to Farm: Grows best in early spring or fall. Prefers cooler temperatures around 15–21°C (59–70°F).
• Time to Harvest: Harvest in 4–6 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Prepare the soil: Use nitrogen-rich, well-drained soil.
  • Planting: Sow seeds 2 cm (0.8 inches) deep and 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist.
  • Fertilizing: Add compost or organic fertilizer for better growth, as spinach is a heavy feeder. I noticed healthier, lusher leaves when I enriched the soil with compost before planting.
  • Harvesting: Pick outer leaves when they’re 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) long to encourage continuous growth, or harvest the whole plant. I prefer picking outer leaves as needed; it extends the harvest for weeks from one planting!
  • Pest Note: Watch for leaf miners and aphids.

6. Maize (Corn)

Quick Facts: Matures within 60–90 days (8-12 weeks), with fresh cobs typically ready around day 70.

This highly lucrative grain is a staple food with multiple uses, from fresh consumption to processing. It requires minimal care and grows rapidly, making it uncommon to lose money cultivating. From one seed, you can harvest multiple cobs (typically 1-2 per stalk), making it a high-return crop. Farmers can sell maize fresh, dried, or processed products like flour. Fresh maize lasts about 3–5 days before the kernels lose their sweetness and firmness. Maize is a great example of crops that grow within 3 months.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • Sweet Corn: Juicy and tender (e.g., Golden Bantam).
  • Flint Corn: Hard kernels, great for flour.
  • Popcorn: Small, dense kernels for popping.
• Best Time to Farm: Plant during the rainy season or in spring when temperatures exceed 18°C (65°F). This is a common planting crops example in Nigeria.
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 8–12 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use fertile, well-drained soil with good moisture retention.
  • Planting: Sow seeds in rows, 20 cm (8 inches) apart, with rows spaced 60 cm (24 inches) apart. Plant in blocks for better pollination. Planting in blocks (like a square) rather than long single rows significantly improved my pollination rates, leading to fuller cobs.
  • Watering: Ensure consistent moisture, especially during flowering and kernel development. This stage is critical; I learned that if corn gets stressed for water during silking, you’ll end up with patchy, unfilled cobs.
  • Fertilizing: Add nitrogen-rich fertilizer at planting and mid-growth.
  • Harvesting: Pick ears when kernels are plump and milky (test by piercing one with a fingernail).
  • Pest Note: Corn earworms and armyworms can be issues.

7. Watermelon

Quick Facts: Matures within 80–90 days (10-12 weeks), with harvests possible from day 75.

This highly profitable fruit is a favorite in warm seasons and is widely consumed fresh. It grows quickly and yields large fruits, making it rare to lose money cultivating. One vine can produce multiple fruits, giving a high return on investment. Farmers can sell watermelons fresh or process them into juices and snacks. Whole watermelons can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature, but begin to soften and decay afterward. These fruits that grow in 3 months are highly rewarding.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • Crimson Sweet: Large and sweet with dark green stripes.
  • Sugar Baby: Compact, perfect for small spaces.
  • Yellow Crimson: Yellow flesh with a sweet flavor.
• Best Time to Farm: Plant in late spring or early summer when the soil temperature is above 20°C (68°F).
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 10–12 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use sandy loam soil enriched with organic compost.
  • Planting: Sow seeds in mounds or ridges, spacing them 60-90 cm (2–3 feet) apart.
  • Watering: Keep the soil moist during early growth; reduce watering as fruits mature to enhance sweetness. I learned to back off on the water as the fruits ripened; it concentrates the sugars and makes them sweeter.
  • Pest control: Monitor for aphids and cucumber beetles. Consider companion planting with basil or marigolds to deter pests naturally.
  • Harvesting: Tap the fruit; a hollow sound indicates ripeness. Look for dry tendrils near the stem as another sign. The dry tendril trick was my most reliable indicator of ripeness – saved me from picking unripe watermelons!
  • Yield Note: A single healthy vine can produce 2-4 large watermelons.

8. Ewedu (Jute Leaves)

Quick Facts: Matures quickly, typically within 30–40 days (3-4 weeks), with leaves ready for harvest from day 25.

This highly lucrative leafy vegetable is a staple in many traditional dishes, especially in West Africa. It grows rapidly and requires minimal care, making it uncommon to lose money cultivating. A single plant can produce continuous leaves for weeks when properly pruned. Farmers can sell ewedu fresh or dried for soups and stews. Fresh ewedu leaves last about 3–5 days but wilt quickly if not stored in a cool, moist environment. This is a common 1 month crop in Nigeria.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • Local varieties: Common in West Africa, known for their resilience.
  • Improved cultivars: Developed for higher yields and disease resistance.
• Best Time to Farm: Best planted during the rainy season or with regular irrigation in warm climates.
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 3–4 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter.
  • Planting: Scatter seeds thinly or plant in rows with a spacing of 15 cm (6 inches).
  • Watering: Water daily for lush growth, as it loves moisture. Ewedu thrives on consistent moisture; I found it was one of the thirstiest plants in my garden during dry spells.
  • Weeding: Keep the bed weed-free to avoid competition for nutrients.
  • Harvesting: Cut leaves early to encourage regrowth and prevent the plant from becoming woody. The more I harvested, the bushier and more productive my Ewedu plants became. It’s like a perpetual harvest!
  • Pest Note: Generally hardy, but monitor for common leaf-eating insects.

9. Garden Eggs (Eggplant)

Quick Facts: Typically mature within 60–90 days (8-12 weeks), with harvests starting as early as day 70.

These are a highly lucrative vegetable due to their use in various dishes and snacks. They are hardy and produce fruits continuously for months, making it rare to lose money cultivating. A single plant can yield multiple fruits over its lifecycle. Farmers can sell garden eggs fresh or processed into sauces and snacks. Fresh garden eggs can last up to 10 days in cool storage but start to soften and wrinkle if left exposed. These are good 2 months crops options, especially in Nigeria.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • White eggplant: Traditional variety, egg-shaped and creamy.
  • African garden egg: Smaller, green, or yellow fruits with a strong flavor.
  • Black Beauty: Classic eggplant with glossy purple skin.
• Best Time to Farm: Plant in warm weather (above 20°C/68°F) after the last frost.
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 8–12 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use fertile, well-drained soil.
  • Planting: Start seeds indoors, then transplant seedlings 60 cm (24 inches) apart.
  • Watering: Water regularly but ensure good drainage to avoid root rot. My early experience taught me that while they like water, standing water is a death sentence for garden eggs.
  • Pest control: Use neem oil to combat spider mites and aphids. Consider companion planting with beans or peas to deter pests.
  • Harvesting: Pick fruits when glossy and firm, before they over-mature and become bitter. I always check for firmness; soft garden eggs mean they’re past their prime.
  • Yield Note: A single plant can produce 5-10 fruits in a harvest cycle, with continuous production if regularly picked.

10. Pumpkin Leaves (Ugu)

Quick Facts: Leaves (Ugu) can be harvested as early as 30 days (4-6 weeks), with fruits maturing in 80–100 days.

Pumpkin is a highly profitable leafy and fruit crop because of its dual-purpose use—leaves for soups and fruits for cooking or snacks. It is hardy and high-yielding, making it rare to lose money cultivating. One plant can yield multiple fruits and a continuous supply of leaves. Farmers can sell pumpkin leaves fresh or dried, and fruits can be sold whole or processed into puree or snacks. Fresh pumpkin leaves last about 2–3 days, while fruits can last several weeks if stored properly.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • Telfairia occidentalis: Common in West Africa, prized for its tender leaves (often referred to as ‘Ugu’).
• Best Time to Farm: Plant during the rainy season or provide irrigation in dry months.
• Time to Harvest: Leaves ready in 4–6 weeks, fruits in 10-12 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use rich, loamy soil. Add organic manure for better growth.
  • Planting: Sow seeds in mounds, 1–2 seeds per hole.
  • Watering: Ensure consistent moisture, especially during germination and early growth.
  • Staking: Train vines to climb for better air circulation, ease of harvesting, and potentially higher yield, keeping fruits off the ground. I started staking my Ugu after finding too many leaves getting muddy on the ground; it also makes harvesting much easier!
  • Harvesting: Cut young leaves or tender shoots, leaving some to ensure continued plant health and regrowth.
  • Pest Note: Relatively disease-resistant.

11. Basil

Quick Facts: Matures quickly, typically within 30–45 days (4-6 weeks), with leaves ready for harvest as early as day 25.

This highly profitable herb is popular due to its demand in both culinary and medicinal applications. It grows quickly and can be harvested repeatedly, making it uncommon to lose money cultivating. One plant can provide fresh leaves continuously if pruned regularly. Farmers can sell basil fresh, dried, or as part of herbal blends. Fresh basil leaves last about 2–3 days without refrigeration but can be preserved longer by drying or freezing. Basil is among the fast growing cash crops you can consider.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • Genovese basil: Sweet and aromatic, perfect for pesto.
  • Thai basil: Spicy with an anise flavor.
  • Lemon basil: Citrus-scented for unique dishes.
• Best Time to Farm: Plant in late spring or summer when temperatures are consistently warm.
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 4–6 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use well-drained soil enriched with compost.
  • Planting: Sow seeds shallowly or transplant seedlings 12–15 cm (5–6 inches) apart.
  • Watering: Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
  • Pinching: Pinch off flowers (flower buds) immediately to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from going to seed, which reduces leaf production and flavor. This was my biggest learning curve with basil; if you let it flower, the leaves get bitter and the plant stops producing.
  • Harvesting: Snip leaves regularly (from the top, above a set of leaves) to stimulate new growth.
  • Pest Note: Can attract Japanese beetles or slugs.

12. Kale

Quick Facts: Matures within 50–70 days (6-8 weeks), with tender leaves ready for harvest from day 45.

This highly profitable leafy vegetable is popular due to its status as a superfood in healthy diets. It thrives in most climates and grows quickly, making it uncommon to lose money cultivating. A single plant can provide a steady supply of leaves over several months when harvested properly. Farmers can sell kale fresh, frozen, or dried for soups, salads, and smoothies. Fresh kale leaves last about 5–7 days in cool storage but wilt quickly in warm conditions.

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
• Varieties:
  • Curly kale: Most common with ruffled leaves.
  • Lacinato (Dinosaur kale): Dark green, tender leaves.
  • Red Russian: Mild and colorful.
• Best Time to Farm: Grows best in early spring or fall when temperatures are between 10–20°C (50–68°F).
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 6–8 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use rich, well-drained soil with compost.
  • Planting: Sow seeds directly or transplant seedlings 30 cm (12 inches) apart.
  • Watering: Water regularly to keep leaves tender and prevent bitterness.
  • Fertilizing: Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2–3 weeks, or side-dress with compost.
  • Harvesting: Pick outer leaves as needed, leaving the central bud to continue producing. Regular harvesting promotes continuous growth and a longer yield. I loved how long my kale plants kept giving me harvests just by picking the outer leaves; it truly feels like a continuous supply.
  • Pest Note: Cabbage worms can be a problem. I found hand-picking cabbage worms daily was the most effective method for my small patch.

13. Carrots

Quick Facts: Matures within 70–80 days (8-10 weeks), with some smaller varieties ready for harvest as early as day 60.

This highly marketable root vegetable is prized for its versatility in salads, soups, and snacks. They grow quickly and require minimal space, making it rare to lose money cultivating. Each seed produces a single carrot, but you can stagger planting for continuous harvests. Farmers can sell carrots fresh, frozen, or processed into juices and snacks. Fresh carrots last about 2–3 weeks when stored in a cool, humid place but lose crunch and flavor if left exposed. Carrots are excellent vegetables that grow in 3 months.

• Sunlight: Full sun.
• Varieties:
  • Nantes: Sweet and cylindrical.
  • Imperator: Long and tapered, great for deep soil.
  • Chantenay: Short and wide, perfect for clay soil.
• Best Time to Farm: Plant in early spring or late summer for cooler growing conditions.
• Time to Harvest: Ready in 8–10 weeks.
• How to Grow:
  • Soil preparation: Use loose, sandy soil free of stones to avoid misshapen roots. A raised bed can be ideal for carrots. My biggest take-away here was that truly loose, stone-free soil is non-negotiable for straight, beautiful carrots.
  • Planting: Sow seeds directly into rows and thin seedlings to 5 cm (2 inches) apart once they sprout.
  • Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; inconsistent watering can lead to splitting.
  • Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep soil temperature consistent.
  • Harvesting: Pull carrots when they’re of the desired size (check by gently brushing soil away from the crown). Don’t let them stay too long or they may split and lose flavor. I learned to pull a test carrot every now and then to gauge the size before harvesting the whole row.
  • Pest Note: Carrot rust flies are a common pest.

By understanding the unique requirements of each crop, you can maximize yields and enjoy a successful harvest list. Use this guide as a roadmap, experiment, and learn with each growing season. Whether you’re growing for your family or profit, these short-term crops are an excellent way to get started!

Steps to Grow Short-Term Crops Successfully

Growing short-term crops can be a rewarding venture if done correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success with your crops to plant:

1. Select the Right Crop

Choose crops that suit your local climate, soil type, and market demand. Prioritize fast growing crops like okra, cucumber, or leafy greens that mature within 30–90 days. This makes them perfect short duration crops.

2. Prepare the Soil

Test the soil to determine pH and nutrient levels; most short-term crops thrive in neutral to slightly acidic soils (pH 6.0–7.0). Clear the land of weeds and debris. Enrich the soil with compost or organic manure to enhance fertility and structure.

3. Get Quality Seeds or Seedlings

Source seeds from reputable suppliers to ensure high germination rates. Choose improved or hybrid varieties for better yields and disease resistance.

4. Plant at the Right Time

Follow the recommended planting season for each crop:

• Okra and maize do well during the rainy season. (In Nigeria, this typically means April/May to July, and often a second, shorter season in September/October). This highlights the best time for farmers to start planting crops.
• Space the seeds or seedlings properly to allow for adequate growth and airflow.

5. Water Consistently

Provide sufficient water, especially during germination and early growth stages. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal diseases. Consider a drip irrigation system or hand-watering deeply early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.

6. Apply Fertilizers and Mulch

Use organic or inorganic fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium as needed. Mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

7. Control Pests and Diseases

Monitor crops and harvest regularly for signs of pests like aphids or diseases like blight. Use natural remedies, like neem oil, or approved pesticides in controlled amounts. Beyond neem oil, consider using insect netting for vulnerable young plants or practicing companion planting to naturally deter pests.

8. Harvest at the Right Time

Harvest crops and their harvesting time as they reach maturity to ensure maximum freshness and market value. Avoid delays in harvesting to prevent quality deterioration.

How to Make Money Selling Crops to Plant and Harvest Within 3 Months

Making money from short-term crops is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to venture into agriculture. With a little planning, your garden can become a steady source of income. This is a great way to find a crop that can make you rich in short time. Whether you’re farming on a large scale or just starting small in your backyard, these practical tips will help you turn those crops harvest into cash.

1. Start with Market Research

Before planting a single seed, you need to understand your market. Who are your buyers? What crops are in demand?

• Visit local markets and talk to vendors. Ask: “What are people asking for that you sometimes run out of?” or “What sells well even when prices are a bit higher?”
• Check trends—if you notice kale and basil are on every health-conscious person’s shopping list, prioritize those.
• Find out if certain crops sell better in specific seasons.
• Pro Tip: If unsure, begin with widely loved 3 crops like okra, cucumber, and garden eggs, which sell consistently year-round. Also, research demand by checking local Facebook groups, WhatsApp communities, or agricultural forums.

2. Grow High-Quality, Fast-Maturing Varieties

The secret to repeat buyers is quality. Opt for high-yield, disease-resistant varieties. For example:

• Cucumber: Hybrid types like Poinsett or Marketer grow fast and taste better.
• Basil: Sweet basil varieties are a hit with chefs and foodies.
• Healthy, vibrant produce sells itself. Customers will even pay extra for fresh, attractive crops that you produce.

3. Sell Fresh and in Bulk

Freshness is everything. No one wants wilted vegetables or overripe fruits.

• Harvest in the morning when crops that can be sold are fresh and cool.
• Sell to wholesalers or markets immediately after harvesting to maintain quality.
• If you have a surplus, offer discounts to bulk buyers like supermarkets or restaurants. This builds relationships and guarantees steady income.

4. Explore Value-Added Products

Not all crops sell immediately. That doesn’t mean they should go to waste! You can process them into value-added products:

• Tomatoes: Make tomato paste or sauce (if you add tomatoes to your crop list, or consider other fruit crops).
• Garden Eggs: Turn them into eggplant chips or spreads.
• Basil: Create dried herb mixes or basil oil.
• Processed goods sell for higher prices and last longer, giving you more ways to make money.

5. Target Specialty Markets

Don’t just rely on local markets. Explore niche opportunities like:

• Health-conscious customers: They love kale, spinach, and basil.
• Restaurants and caterers: Sell premium-grade produce like cherry tomatoes (if applicable) and herbs directly to them. Create a small sample basket of your best produce to showcase quality.
• Farmers’ markets: Perfect for organic or freshly picked vegetables. Highlight “organically grown” or “pesticide-free” if applicable, as this is a huge selling point.

6. Use Social Media for Direct Sales

Everyone’s online, including your potential buyers. Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp to showcase your short term plants, share harvest updates, and take online orders.

• WhatsApp Business: Set up a catalogue of your available crops, prices, and delivery options. This is extremely popular for small businesses in Nigeria.
• High-Quality Photos: Use good lighting to showcase freshness, and consider including a picture of your garden to build trust.
• Example Caption: “Just harvested these fresh, crunchy cucumbers! Perfect for your salad or smoothies. DM to order now!”

7. Partner with Local Grocery Stores and Supermarkets

Approach small stores and supermarkets to supply them with fresh produce regularly. Start with smaller, independent stores first, as they are often more flexible than large chains. Once they trust the quality of your crops, they’ll keep coming back for more.

8. Offer Home Delivery Services

People love convenience. Offer to deliver fresh produce straight to their doorsteps. You can even create subscription boxes for weekly deliveries of assorted vegetables and herbs. Calculate delivery fees realistically (e.g., per zone or a flat fee) to ensure profitability.

9. Reduce Costs and Maximize Profits

Keep your expenses low by:

• Using organic fertilizers and compost from kitchen waste to create free, nutrient-rich soil amendments.
• Learning about seed saving for open-pollinated varieties to reduce annual seed costs.
• Growing crops that can be cultivated without heavy pesticides, like ewedu or okra.

10. Diversify Your Income Streams

Why stop at just selling crops?

• Host small farming workshops for beginners.
• Rent out part of your farm for others to grow their plant crops.
• Start a YouTube channel or blog to share your farming journey and tips. You can monetize it later!

11. Timing Is Everything

Time your plant and harvest cycles to align with high-demand seasons. For example:

• During festive seasons, demand for certain produce, such as tomatoes, peppers, and leafy greens, sells like hotcakes.
• Plant basil and kale in anticipation of health trends at the beginning of the year when people are focusing on fitness.
• Consider cultural events and holidays too, as demand for specific ingredients may surge. This is key for understanding harvest season months.

12. Build Strong Relationships

Networking is key to growing your business. Build lasting relationships with buyers, vendors, and even other farmers. Offer consistent quality and reliable delivery, and you’ll earn their trust—and more business.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Farming short-term crops can be tricky if you’re new to the process. Here are common mistakes and how to sidestep them:

1. Poor Soil Preparation

Mistake: Skipping soil testing and preparation.

Solution: Always test your soil and enrich it with organic matter as needed.

2. Planting at the Wrong Time

Mistake: Planting crops during off-season or extreme weather conditions.

Solution: Research the ideal planting periods for each crop and align them with the local climate.

3. Overcrowding Plants

Mistake: Planting seeds too close together.

Solution: Follow the recommended spacing guidelines for each crop to ensure proper growth and air circulation.

4. Inconsistent Watering

Mistake: Overwatering or underwatering crops.

Solution: Water plants consistently, adjusting based on rainfall or dry spells, and checking soil moisture before watering.

5. Ignoring Pest and Disease Management

Mistake: Neglecting regular inspection for pests and diseases.

Solution: Conduct regular checks and take preventive measures, like applying organic pesticides or using companion planting.

6. Delayed Harvesting

Mistake: Waiting too long to harvest.

Solution: Harvest crops as soon as they reach maturity to maintain quality and freshness.

7. Inadequate Market Research

Mistake: Growing crops without assessing market demand.

Solution: Research market trends to determine the most profitable crops to plant in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions – Crops To Plant And Harvest Within 3 Months

Conclusion – Crops To Plant And Harvest Within 3 Months

Growing short-term crops transformed my view of farming. Not only did I gain fresh produce for my family, but I also discovered a rewarding side hustle. If you’re ready to dig in, start small, choose crops that excite you, and learn as you grow. Trust me, the journey is as fulfilling as the harvest itself! This list of 2 months crops in Nigeria and other short-term options provides a great starting point for anyone looking to plant and harvest quickly.

Have you tried growing short-term crops before? What will be the first short term crop you try to plant? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!