5 Crops You Can Grow in Containers

Whether you have a small yard or less than a quarter-acre, you can probably find space to grow some type of vegetable. What you might not have room for is a conventional garden. Fortunately, you can grow container gardens to grow just about anything.

This type of gardening allows you to grow crops in small spaces and even in containers on your deck, porch, or even indoors. Container gardening is a great way to grow small quantities of different crops, as well as flowers. You can even start a container garden to grow herbs.

In this article, we’ll discuss different types of container gardens, the plants you can grow in them, and where you can find ideas for container gardens.

What is a Container Garden?

A container garden is a miniature version of your landscape, designed to grow vegetables or flowers in.

In this type of gardening, you plant small pots (usually 4-6 inches in diameter) filled with soil and then plant the seeds or seedlings in the pots.

You can purchase large, durable pots to start your container garden, or you can use recycled or empty jars, plastic barrels, or recycled cardboard boxes.

When planting in a container, you want to make sure there is enough soil to allow the roots of the plants to grow deep enough to take hold and develop healthy plants.

You can grow several types of container plants, including herbs, vegetables, flowers, and fruit.

How to Start a Container Garden

The most important step in starting a container garden is to decide where you’d like to grow your container garden.

Think about where you have the most space, as well as the light conditions that are best for the plants you want to grow.

Next, you’ll need to decide what size container you’d like to grow your plants in. While it is possible to grow plants in a small container, you’ll need to choose a large container (at least 5 gallons) to give your plants enough room to grow.

When you have decided on the size of the container, you can start looking for containers.

You can purchase new pots, or you can use containers that are already in your house. You can even look in your recycling bin to find discarded plastic containers that are just the right size.

Choosing Plants for a Container Garden

Most vegetables and herbs will grow well in a container, provided you give them the proper care.

Here are some things to consider when choosing which plants to plant in your container garden:

Plant Hardiness – All plants have a hardiness rating, indicating the range of temperatures they can tolerate. Some plants will do well in containers when you have a small space, but others will have a greater range.

Zone Considerations – Be sure to consider the zone in which you live when choosing plants for your container garden. Many plants will only do well in a certain zone, and will not do well if you try to plant them outside their zone.

Sunlight – Many plants will require at least 6 hours of sunlight to grow well.

Soil Conditions – The final thing to consider when choosing which plants to grow in your container garden is the soil type you have. Some plants prefer a rich, loamy soil, while others need a more sandy soil.

5 Crops You Can Grow in Containers

Asparagus

Asparagus is delicious and easy to grow in a container. It can be started from seed or cuttings, and grow rapidly in the spring and summer.

Lettuce

Lettuce is one of the most popular vegetables to grow in containers. It is easy to grow, does well in a variety of soils and light conditions, and provides delicious lettuce for months.

Beets

Beets are easy to grow and can be grown year-round in containers. They can be eaten fresh, juiced, or made into a variety of different dishes.

Onions

Onions can be grown year-round in containers. They require minimal space and little maintenance, making them a great choice for urban and suburban yards.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in containers. They are easy to grow and require very little water, making them a great choice for indoor and outdoor gardens.