Vegetables & Herbs
Container Vegetable Gardening
Congratulations on choosing to grow vegetables and herbs! Container gardening is perfect for urban spaces like balconies, patios, or small yards.
Container Gardening Tips:
- Use containers with drainage holes to prevent root rot
- Choose appropriate-sized containers for each plant type
- Fill with high-quality potting mix, not garden soil
- Place in locations with adequate sunlight (most vegetables need 6+ hours)
- Water consistently - containers dry out faster than ground soil
- Fertilize regularly as nutrients deplete more quickly in containers
Repurposed Containers
You don't need expensive pots to start a container garden! Consider these options:
- 5-gallon plastic buckets (add drainage holes)
- Plastic storage tubs
- Large yogurt or food containers
- Reusable grocery bags
- Old wooden crates
Easy Vegetables & Herbs for Beginners
Tomatoes
Cherry or determinate varieties work best in containers. Need support cages or stakes.
Basil
Grows easily in small containers. Pinch off flower buds to keep leaves producing.
Lettuce & Greens
Quick-growing and can be harvested multiple times. Good for shallow containers.
Peppers
Both hot and sweet peppers do well in containers with at least 3 gallons capacity.