What grows best in container gardens?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Container gardening is ideal for certain crops that thrive in a relatively small amount of soil and reward the grower with delicious harvests. Beginners in gardening should utilize the hardiest crops, which are not too exacting in soil requirements, and whose vines, bushes, or bunches can thrive in a limited space. Beans, peas, radishes, lettuce, and other similar leafy vegetables (as well as herbs) can produce well in pots. Such plants conform most closely to their environment.
Leafy Greens
- Lettuce and spinach grow in 3-gallon pots
- Harvest outer leaves for continuous growth
- Tolerate partial shade conditions
Fruiting Vegetables
- Cherry tomatoes need 5-gallon containers
- Peppers require 6+ hours of direct sun
- Dwarf varieties maximize space efficiency
Many popular herbs, such as basil, thrive well in small containers with good drainage. They are fast-growing and require little attention. Some herbs, such as mint, require planting in separate pots, as their roots can be invasive. Place the pots near the kitchen for easy access to harvest and use in cooking. Cutting back the herbs from time to time helps keep them growing bushier rather than taller.
Flowers also have their place in your container garden. Marigolds repel many pests and attract pollinators, making them easy to care for. Petunias provide color without demanding a lot of attention. They tend to do well in small spaces with limited sunlight. Consider planting them among your veggies for free pest control from nature.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Container Gardening Tips for Beginners
