Discover the joy of growing your own fresh vegetables, even in the smallest of spaces! Container gardening opens up a world of possibilities for urban gardeners and those with limited outdoor areas.
Among the array of options, some vegetables shine as stars of container cultivation, offering both flavor and ease. From the zesty crunch of radishes to the lush abundance of zucchini, these plants bring the garden to your doorstep, no matter how small it may be.
Join me as I explore the delightful realm of container-grown veggies, where each pot holds the promise of homegrown goodness and the satisfaction of a bountiful harvest.
Let’s turn your balcony, patio, or rooftop into a flourishing oasis of fresh, vibrant produce. Get ready to experience the joy of growing your own veggies, one container at a time!
Best vegetables to grow in the containers
Container gardening is an excellent solution for those with limited space, offering the flexibility to grow a variety of vegetables on balconies, patios, or even windowsills. With the right care and selection, many vegetables thrive in containers, providing fresh produce all year round. Here are the best 15 vegetables to grow in containers, along with essential tips for each.
Tomato
Ease of Growth: Tomatoes are relatively easy to grow, provided they get enough sunlight and proper care.
Suitability for Containers: Highly suitable for containers, especially determinate varieties which are more compact.
Variety and Seasonality: Popular container varieties include ‘Patio Princess’, ‘Tiny Tim’, and ‘Bush Early Girl’. Best grown in spring and summer.
How to Grow: Choose a large container (at least 18 inches in diameter).
Use high-quality potting soil with good drainage.
Plant seedlings after the last frost.
Water consistently and provide support with stakes or cages.
Time of Harvesting: Usually 60-85 days after planting, depending on the variety.
Additional Information: Ensure 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer will promote healthy growth and fruit production.
Eggplant
Ease of Growth: Moderately easy to grow, but they need warm temperatures and consistent care.
Suitability for Containers: Suitable, especially compact varieties like ‘Little Finger’ and ‘Fairy Tale’.
Variety and Seasonality: Look for smaller varieties that thrive in containers. Plant in late spring when the soil is warm.
How to Grow:
Use a container at least 12 inches deep.
Fill with well-draining potting mix.
Plant in full sun, after the threat of frost has passed.
Water regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Time of Harvesting: Typically 65-80 days after transplanting.
Additional Information: Eggplants are heavy feeders; use a balanced fertilizer. Support plants with stakes or cages as they grow.
Peas
Ease of Growth: Easy to grow, even for beginners.
Suitability for Containers: Very suitable, especially bush varieties.
Variety and Seasonality: Suitable varieties include ‘Tom Thumb’ and ‘Little Marvel’. Best grown in cooler seasons—early spring or fall.
How to Grow: Use a wide, shallow container (at least 8 inches deep).
Plant seeds 1-2 inches apart.
Ensure they get full sun.
Keep the soil consistently moist.
Time of Harvesting: Usually ready to harvest 60-70 days after planting.
Additional Information: Peas benefit from a trellis or support system. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production.
Green Chilli (Hot)
Ease of Growth: Moderately easy, with proper care.
Suitability for Containers: Well-suited for containers, particularly smaller varieties like Cayenne’ and ‘Serrano’.
Variety and Seasonality: Choose compact varieties for container growth. Plant in late spring or early summer.
How to Grow:
Use a container at least 12 inches in diameter.
Fill with well-draining potting soil.
Plant in a sunny location (6-8 hours of sunlight daily).
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
Time of Harvesting: Typically 60-80 days after transplanting.
Additional Information: Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer enhances growth. Harvest chilies when they reach the desired size and color.
Lemon
Ease of Growth: Somewhat challenging, requiring specific conditions.
Suitability for Containers: Suitable, particularly dwarf varieties like ‘Improved Meyer’ lemon.
Variety and Seasonality: Dwarf varieties are best for container growth. Can be grown year-round in warm climates; otherwise, move indoors during colder months.
How to Grow:
Use a large container (at least 15-20 gallons).
Ensure well-draining potting mix.
Place in a sunny spot (8-12 hours of sunlight daily).
Water consistently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Time of Harvesting: Usually 6-9 months after flowering, depending on the variety.
Additional Information: Regular pruning helps maintain size and shape. Fertilize with a citrus-specific fertilizer for optimal growth.
Radishes:
Ease of Growth: Radishes are relatively easy to grow. They have a bushy growth habit and require moderate sunlight.
Suitability for Containers: Radishes are suitable for container gardening, as they have shallow roots. A container with a depth of around 6-8 inches should be sufficient.
Variety and Seasonality: There are many varieties of radishes available, including Cherry Belle, French Breakfast, and Easter Egg. They are cool-season crops, typically planted in spring or fall.
How to grow: Growing radishes in containers is easy and rewarding.
Start by selecting a container with good drainage and filling it with well-draining potting mix.
Sow radish seeds about half an inch deep and an inch apart, then water thoroughly.
Place the container in a sunny spot or under grow lights.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Radishes typically mature in 3-4 weeks.
Harvest them when they reach the desired size by gently pulling them from the soil.
Time of Harvesting: Radishes are usually ready for harvest within 3-4 weeks after planting, depending on the variety.
Additional Information: Radishes prefer well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Avoid overcrowding in the container to allow proper root development.
Lettuce:
Ease of Growth: Lettuce is generally easy to grow, with a bushy growth habit. It prefers cooler temperatures and partial sunlight.
Suitability for Containers: Lettuce is well-suited for container gardening, especially loose-leaf varieties. A container with a depth of 6-12 inches should be adequate.
Variety and Seasonality: There are various types of lettuce, including Butterhead, Romaine, and Loose-leaf. Lettuce can be grown in both spring and fall.
How to grow: Growing lettuce in containers is simple and space-efficient.
Begin by selecting a container with drainage holes and filling it with nutrient-rich potting soil.
Scatter lettuce seeds evenly over the soil surface, then lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil.
Water gently to keep the soil consistently moist.
Place the container in a location with partial sunlight or dappled shade.
Ensure adequate airflow to prevent disease.
Harvest leaves when they reach desired size, allowing new growth to continue.
Time of Harvesting: Lettuce leaves can be harvested when they reach the desired size, typically within 30-70 days after planting.
Kohlrabi:
Ease of Growth: Kohlrabi is moderately easy to grow, with a bushy growth habit. It prefers full sunlight and consistent watering.
Suitability for Containers: Kohlrabi can be grown in containers, but it requires a larger container due to its bulbous root. A container with a depth of at least 12 inches is recommended.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties of kohlrabi include Early White Vienna and Purple Vienna. It is a cool-season crop, typically planted in early spring or late summer.
How to grow: Growing kohlrabi in containers is straightforward and space-saving.
Start by choosing a container at least 12 inches deep with drainage holes.
Fill it with well-draining potting mix enriched with compost.
Plant kohlrabi seeds ¼ inch deep and 3 inches apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial sunlight.
As the plants grow, thin them to allow proper spacing.
Harvest when the bulbs reach 2-3 inches in diameter, typically within 6-8 weeks after planting.
Enjoy fresh, crisp kohlrabi in your salads or stir-fries!
Time of Harvesting: Kohlrabi bulbs are harvested when they reach 2-3 inches in diameter, usually within 6-8 weeks after planting.
Additional Information: Kohlrabi thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. Regular fertilization can promote healthy growth and development of bulbs.
When planting kohlrabi seedlings, it’s crucial not to bury them too deep in the soil to prevent the bulb from forming properly and to avoid potential rotting issues.
Pak Choi and Tatsoi:
Ease of Growth: Pak choi and tatsoi are relatively easy to grow, with a compact growth habit. They prefer full sunlight and regular watering.
Suitability for Containers: Both pak choi and tatsoi can be grown in containers, especially smaller varieties. A container with a depth of 6-8 inches should suffice.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties include Joi Choi, Toy Choi, and Tah Tsai. They are cool-season crops, suitable for planting in spring or fall.
How to grow: Growing Pak Choi and Tatsoi in containers is a breeze.
Begin by selecting a container with drainage holes and filling it with well-draining potting mix.
Plant Pak Choi and Tatsoi seeds ¼ inch deep and 4-6 inches apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial sunlight, especially in hotter climates.
As the seedlings emerge, thin them to maintain proper spacing.
Harvest leaves when they are young and tender, typically within 4-6 weeks after planting, for delicious additions to salads and stir-fries.
Time of Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested when they reach the desired size, typically within 4-6 weeks after planting.
Beetroot:
Ease of Growth: Beetroot is relatively easy to grow, with a bushy growth habit. It prefers full sunlight and consistent watering.
Suitability for Containers: Beetroot can be grown in containers, but it requires a deeper container due to its taproot. A container with a depth of at least 12 inches is recommended.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties of beetroot include Detroit Dark Red, Chioggia, and Golden. It is a cool-season crop, suitable for planting in early spring or late summer.
How to grow: Growing beetroot in containers is simple and rewarding.
Begin by selecting a container at least 12 inches deep with drainage holes.
Fill it with well-draining potting mix enriched with compost.
Plant beetroot seeds ½ inch deep and 2-3 inches apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide full sun or partial shade.
As the plants grow, thin them to 4-6 inches apart to allow room for bulb development.
Harvest when the beets reach 1-3 inches in diameter, typically within 8-10 weeks after planting. Enjoy fresh, nutritious beets in your salads or roasted dishes!
Time of Harvesting: Beetroot roots can be harvested when they reach 1-3 inches in diameter, usually within 8-10 weeks after planting.
Additional Information: Beetroot prefers loose, well-drained soil. Mulching can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Bush Beans:
Ease of Growth: Bush beans are relatively easy to grow, with a compact growth habit. They prefer full sunlight and regular watering.
Suitability for Containers: Bush beans are excellent for container gardening, especially dwarf varieties. A container with a depth of 8-10 inches should be sufficient.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties of bush beans include Blue Lake, Provider, and Contender. They are warm-season crops, suitable for planting after the last frost date.
How to grow: Growing bush beans in containers is a straightforward process.
Begin by selecting a container at least 8-10 inches deep with drainage holes.
Fill it with well-draining potting soil.
Plant bush bean seeds 1-2 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide full sun.
As the plants grow, support them with stakes or a trellis if needed.
Harvest beans when they are young and tender, typically within 50-60 days after planting. Enjoy fresh, crisp beans straight from your container garden!
Time of Harvesting: Bush beans can be harvested when the pods are firm and crisp, usually within 50-60 days after planting.
Swiss Chard:
Ease of Growth: Swiss chard is relatively easy to grow, with a bushy growth habit. It prefers full sunlight to partial shade and regular watering.
Suitability for Containers: Swiss chard can be grown in containers, especially compact varieties. A container with a depth of 8-10 inches should suffice.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties include Bright Lights, Fordhook Giant, and Rainbow. Swiss chard is a cool-season crop, suitable for planting in spring or fall.
How to grow: Growing Swiss chard in containers is simple and space-saving.
Begin by selecting a container at least 12 inches deep with drainage holes.
Fill it with nutrient-rich potting soil.
Plant Swiss chard seeds ½ inch deep and 4-6 inches apart.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial sunlight.
As the plants grow, thin them to maintain proper spacing.
Harvest outer leaves when they reach 6-8 inches tall, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Enjoy the colorful and nutritious addition to your salads and sautés!
Time of Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested when they reach the desired size, usually within 6-8 weeks after planting.
Cucumbers:
Ease of Growth: Cucumbers can be moderately challenging to grow, depending on the variety. They have a vining growth habit and prefer full sunlight and consistent watering.
Suitability for Containers: Cucumbers can be grown in containers, but they require trellising and support due to their vining nature. A container with a depth of 12-18 inches is recommended.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties include Marketmore, Straight Eight, and Bush Champion. Cucumbers are warm-season crops, suitable for planting after the last frost date.
How to grow: Growing cucumbers in containers is a rewarding endeavor.
Begin by selecting a large container, at least 18 inches deep, with drainage holes.
Fill it with nutrient-rich potting soil.
Plant cucumber seeds or seedlings about 1 inch deep and 12 inches apart.
Provide a trellis or stake for vertical support as the vines grow.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide full sun.
Harvest cucumbers when they reach desired size, typically within 50-70 days after planting. Enjoy fresh, crisp cucumbers straight from your container garden!
Time of Harvesting: Cucumbers are typically harvested when they reach 6-8 inches in length, usually within 50-70 days after planting.
Additional Information: Cucumbers benefit from consistent moisture and regular fertilization. Pruning can help manage vine growth and promote fruit development.
Bell Peppers:
Ease of Growth: Bell peppers can be moderately challenging to grow, depending on the variety. They have a bushy growth habit and prefer full sunlight and consistent watering.
Suitability for Containers: Bell peppers can be grown in containers, especially compact or patio varieties. A container with a depth of 12-18 inches is recommended.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties include California Wonder, Big Bertha, and Mini Bell Blend. Bell peppers are warm-season crops, suitable for planting after the last frost date.
How to grow: Growing bell peppers in containers is straightforward and space-efficient.
Begin by selecting a container at least 12 inches deep with drainage holes.
Fill it with well-draining potting soil mixed with compost.
Plant bell pepper seedlings or seeds about 18 inches apart.
Place the container in a sunny location, providing at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
Harvest peppers when they reach full size and color, typically within 60-90 days after planting. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of homegrown bell peppers!
Time of Harvesting: Bell peppers can be harvested when they reach full size and color, usually within 60-90 days after planting.
Zucchini:
Ease of Growth: Zucchini is relatively easy to grow, with a bushy growth habit. It prefers full sunlight and regular watering.
Suitability for Containers: Zucchini can be grown in containers, but it requires a larger container due to its sprawling nature. A container with a depth of 18-24 inches is recommended.
Variety and Seasonality: Varieties include Black Beauty, Golden, and Cocozelle. Zucchini is a warm-season crop, suitable for planting after the last frost date.
How to grow: Growing zucchini in containers is convenient and rewarding.
Begin by selecting a large container, at least 24 inches deep, with drainage holes.
Fill it with nutrient-rich potting soil mixed with compost.
Plant zucchini seeds or seedlings about 1 inch deep and 36 inches apart.
Place the container in a sunny location, providing at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist.
Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
Harvest zucchini when they are 6-8 inches long, typically within 50-70 days after planting. Enjoy the fresh, flavorful addition to your meals!
Time of Harvesting: Zucchini is typically harvested when the fruits are 6-8 inches long, usually within 50-60 days after planting.
Additional Information: Zucchini plants are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Adequate spacing between plants in the container can prevent overcrowding and disease development.
Final takeaway!
In the realm of container gardening, the best vegetables are those that offer both flavor and convenience. From radishes to zucchini, these versatile plants transform small spaces into bountiful gardens. With dedication and care, urban gardeners can enjoy a continuous harvest of fresh, homegrown produce year-round.
I’ve addressed all your concerns about best vegetables to grow in containers. If you’re curious about other cool farming methods or the best veggies and herbs for your home garden, check out my other articles in the related post section below or the recent post section at the top-right.
Misty S is the founder and lead writer at GrowOrganicGreens.com, a comprehensive gardening resource dedicated to helping people cultivate beautiful and sustainable gardens. She has a Master’s degree in Economics and specialized studies in agricultural economics, horticulture, and soil science. Drawing from her extensive knowledge and experience, Misty shares practical gardening tips on soil preparation, organic manure composting, fertilizers, plant care, and indoor gardening, making her advice accessible and helpful to gardeners of all levels.
Despite having an high-demanding 9-5 job, Misty dedicates her personal time to researching and exploring various gardening topics. Her keen interest in gardening has grown into a passion, driving her to help new gardeners and anyone interested in starting their gardening journey.
Follow Misty’s work and the latest gardening insights and updates on Pinterest. You can reach out to Misty at mistysblogging@gmail.com.