In today’s world, wasting food feels like tossing money—and resources—straight into the trash. But your kitchen scraps don’t have to go to waste. With a little effort, many common vegetables can grow back into something edible and fresh. It’s a simple way to reduce waste, save money, and build a more sustainable kitchen right from home.
Regrowing vegetables from kitchen scraps doesn’t require a garden or even a green thumb. A sunny windowsill, a jar of water, and a bit of care can go a long way. Plus, it’s satisfying to see new life sprouting from what you once planned to throw out. Whether you want to cut back on waste or stretch your grocery budget, this method offers both environmental and practical benefits.
Here are 20 vegetables to regrow from kitchen scraps—starting with five that are both useful and easy to grow.
1. Onions
Onions are a great place to start if you’re new to regrowing vegetables. When you slice off the root end of an onion, save it. Let the bottom dry out for a day, then plant it in soil root-side down. Keep the pot in a sunny window and water it lightly. Within weeks, green shoots will appear and a new bulb will start to form. It’s a low-maintenance way to get a steady supply of fresh onions at home.