Zach Galifianakis reveals the 5 best vegetables to grow for beginners – but there’s a catch

Look, it’s not every day that a Hollywood comedian becomes one of the most talked-about names in home gardening. Thanks to his new Netflix series, though, Zach Galifianakis has proven he can handle a trowel every bit as well as a punchline (and then some).

In This Is A Gardening Show, Zach has offered us a very different approach to the world of horticultural TV series. Rather than take everything incredibly seriously and bamboozling us with Latin plant names, he's gone for a vibe that's equal parts thoughtful and humorous, giving even novice growers confidence to get their hands dirty.

Now, in an exclusive, Zach has shared the five vegetables (and, fine, other edible plants) that he a) loves growing, and b) believes are perfect for beginners. These aren’t just any easy crops; they’re all as satisfying to grow as they are to eat, and each comes with his signature wry commentary.

Zach Galifianakis's favorite vegetables to grow

At first glance, the list seems deceptively simple; think plants that are forgiving, fast to establish, and tasty as hell. As always in life, though, there’s a catch.

'It all depends on where you live,' says Zach, noting that your USDA Planting Zone is everything when deciding what to plant. And there's one more thing to consider, too. 'Space is needed for most of what I suggest. Still, with some creativity, tomatoes and even grapes can take minimal space.'

Basically, if you're working with a small garden or containers, you’ll need to plan carefully to get the best results. Still, whether you’re a complete novice or a curious gardener looking for inspiration, Zach’s picks are here to remind us that gardening can be approachable, fun, and even a little unexpected... just like the man himself.

1. Pumpkins

First on Zach Galifianakis's list of the best vegetables to grow? Pumpkins, obviously (yes, we know they're technically a fruit).

'If you have the space, these orange spheres can be a rewarding harvest. Easy to maintain, and the payoff is glorious,' he says.

He's not wrong! There’s something undeniably joyful about harvesting your own perfect pumpkins, whether for a pie, a lantern, or just the sheer spectacle of them sprawling across the garden. Try Burpee's Connecticut Field Pumpkin seeds and get growing.

2. Corn

Next up is a crowd-pleaser, always: corn.

'Where I live has some of the most pleasing sweet corn I’ve ever tasted. If you live in a zone where corn thrives, try it,' says Zach. 'I grew a very small amount last year, but you could eat it straight off the stalk. Like candy.'

Corn feels like summer on a plate, and it’s one of those crops that really makes you appreciate patience, sun, and a little hands-on care. Go for Sweetness Corn Seeds from Burpee if you want something that packs a seriously sweet punch.

3. Asparagus

'It's my first year growing asparagus, so I’m no expert. However, I like the idea of planting a food and it coming back every year for the next 15–20 years,' says Zach of this amazing vegetable to grow.

'It’s a perennial, so with good care it magically appears. Like my acne through high school.'

Now, asparagus is a slow-burn favourite, but one that rewards long-term commitment; plant it once, and it becomes a recurring treat year after year. Something like Mary Washington Asparagus Seeds is a good place to start.

4. Tomatoes

Who doesn't love growing tomatoes, quite frankly? 'Not that much space is needed, as these can go vertical,' says Zach. 'I have noticed tomatoes volunteer up often, so I have them no matter what. It's a beautiful plant. And my suggestion here is start early indoors on a windowsill.'

A classic for beginners, tomatoes are versatile, forgiving, and surprisingly easy to grow, even in a small garden or a sunny balcony. Super Sweet 100 Tomato Seeds produce fruits right up until the first frosts, so they're a winning variety in our eyes.

5. Grapes

Grapes may feel ambitious, but their sculptural quality and sweet rewards make them worth the effort. Just be sure you have a trellis or support to show them off properly.

'Honestly, this is such a fabulous specimen. A work of art from nature that offers up so much pleasure for those lucky enough to grow them,' promises Zach.

Opt for Reliance Seedless Grape Bare Roots and get started quicker. You won't regret it (grapes from seed can be tough).

Shop Seed Sowing Essentials:

Ultimately, what makes Zach Galifianakis’s favorite vegetables to grow so appealing isn’t just their beginner-friendly nature, but the way they invite you to slow down and enjoy the process.

Yes, fine, some need a little more space than you might expect. Still, with a bit of planning (and perhaps a willingness to let your garden grow a little wilder), they offer something far more rewarding than convenience alone.

Why? Well, because growing your own isn’t just about the destination: it’s about the (sorry) journey. The first shoots pushing through the soil, the quiet ritual of watering, the pride of picking something you’ve nurtured yourself... you get the picture.

Gardening can be joyful, generous, and just a little bit magical, if only we be a little more Zach about it. Enjoy.

This Is A Gardening Show will be available to stream via Netflix from April 22.