All Perennial Foods

Perennial crops play a special role in our local food system and landscape ecology.

They don't have to be reseeded or replanted every year, so they do not require annual plowing or herbicide applications to establish. Perennial crops also can help protect soil, sequester carbon, moderate excess nutrients in the soil and provide habitat for wildlife.

For local producers they can supplement annual crops, fill different niches in the harvest season, and provide various ecosystem services like beneficial insect habitat, shade, or soil protection. 

For eaters and cooks they help ensure food security and can be fun to cook with and prepared into flavorful and unique dishes and condiments. 

Here are some organizations to follow that are devoted to developing and supporting perennial crops and agroforestry in the Midwest.

• Savanna Institute
• Land Institute 
• Forever Green Initiative