Pick the right plants and pots, and you might grow a bounty of vegetables in containersheres how.
Here are our tips on how to get the best results when you grow vegetables in pots.
Other options include hanging baskets or a self-watering planter box.
Credit: Brie Passano
For better air circulation and draining, elevate the containers on bricks or other materials.
Weight:venture to choose a lightweight container, especially if you plan on moving your vegetable garden around.
Once it’s planted, it can get pretty heavy, especially after watering.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
There are some key things to keep in mind.
As they grow, thin them out so the outer leaves barely touch neighboring plants in the pot.
You also dont want taller plants blocking the sun from smaller plants.
Credit: Brie Passano
In general, though, pots should be at least 10 inches wide.
Shape:Feel free to think beyond the typical round flower pot.
Half barrels, plastic-lined bushel baskets, andwindow boxescan work just as well.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Something as simple as a wire cage inserted into the container at planting time will work.
Use larger, heavier containers for trellised plants to minimize the risk of tipping.
Like most other container gardens, your vegetables will do best inpotting mixesmade for containers.
Credit: Scott Little
Water the soil just before planting.
Sow seeds:Sow seeds according to the seed package directions.
Because not all seeds will germinate, plant more than you need and then thin the excess later.
Credit: Ed Gohlich
Buy plastic tags to help with the identification of each plant.
Fertilize:Sprinkle a balanced, organic fertilizer in the soil, either before or after planting.
Water:At planting time, water gently but thoroughly to settle the seeds or transplants.
Remove or treat any plants that showsigns of disease or insect damage.
Make watering your vegetable container garden easier byinstalling a drip-irrigation system.
It can automatically irrigate your vegetables for you.
Pick your crops as soon as they reach a size where you will enjoy them.
Most vegetables are more productive if you harvest early and often.
Letting plants “go to seed” will often cause a drop in fruit set.
Top Vegetables for Containers
Below are the basic instructions for growinga variety of vegetables in containers.
Note that the suggested planting instructions are for optimal growth.
it’s possible for you to often grow vegetables in smaller containers with acceptable results.
With a little TLC, youll have a home-grown harvest ready to throwon the grillor in yourfavorite vegetable dishes.
Growing Vegetables in Containers.
University of New Hampshire Extension.
Growing Vegetables in Containers: Home New York Botanical Garden.
Growing Vegetables in Containers.
University of Florida Extension.
