How to grow vegetables in pots and containers

Growing your own vegetables is one of the most rewarding things you can do in your garden. But what if you live in an apartment or your outdoor spaces aren’t easily accessible, are too shady or lack quality soil?

You can still reap a bountiful homeharvest in almost any space by growing vegies and herbs in pots and containers. Here are some tips on how to grow vegetables this way and the advantages of this method.

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety gear (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

How to grow vegetables in pots or containers

Many traditional garden vegetables can be grown in pots, even the tallest tomatoes. Follow these tips for a thriving kitchen garden.

• Ensure pots are a suitable size for the mature plants. They need to be big enough not to become top-heavy when the plant is fully grown.

• Use a premium-quality potting mix – there are special blends for vegetables and herbs, as well as organically certified options.

• Group plants with similar needs together in one container. For example, leafy crops such as lettuce and spinach grow best with reliable moisture and regular feeding. If in doubt, check their labels or seed packets.

• Grow climbing vegies in larger pots or containers. Securely position a wire trellis or fan in the pot before planting.

• Tomatoes are an ideal choice for growing in pots, and range from climbing, dwarf or bush varieties to tumbling forms for hanging baskets. But bear in mind that most tomatoes require some support as they grow.

• Regular liquid feeding is a must for container-grown herbs and vegies. Choose a nutrient-rich formula that’s packed with beneficial microorganisms to bring potting mix to life. 

What are the advantages of growing vegetables in pots or containers?

When you grow crops in the ground you are much more constrained by existing soil conditions, rainfall, drainage and more. With containers you have a lot more control, as you can select the best potting mix for the plants and balance watering and feeding accordingly.

What should I position my pots and containers?

The ideal spot for your pots and planters is in full sun. However, not having a super-sunny aspect doesn’t mean you can’t successfully grow some vegies. There’s a rough rule of thumb – if you’re growing fruiting plants (think tomatoes, eggplants and the like) they need maximum sun. But leafy plants like lettuce and Asian greens, and roots crops including carrots and beetroot, will still perform well in a partly shaded situation that gets around four hours of direct sunlight.

Can I grow any type of vegetable in a pot or container?

Yes! Apart from the really big ones like pumpkins, you can grow pretty much all of your favourites. The real trick is picking the right containers to suit the crop. For example, large tomato varieties will need a bigger tub to give their roots enough room and keep them stable in windy conditions. A larger container also allows space to add a ‘tomato tower’ for support. You can even grow climbers, such as snow peas, by adding a trellis to your pot.

Are there varieties more suitable for pots and containers?

In the nursery you’ll find many varieties of vegies that have been bred for attributes such as size and shape. Go for forms that are more compact than traditional varieties. You’ll even find plants such as ‘tumbling’ tomatoes that are suitable for hanging baskets.

What size pot or container is best to grow vegetables in?

Match your pots to your crop. A couple of examples include:

• A large, 1.5m-plus tomato plant needs a pot that’s at least 40cm in diameter.

• Full-sized carrots need a pot or container that’s a little deeper than average – at least 35cm.

• Lettuce and smaller leafy greens will grow perfectly well in a classic window box. 

What fertiliser or soil do I need to grow my vegetables?

Use a premium potting mix. These have been blended to provide ideal growing conditions and nutrients. You’ll get even better results by using a mix that has been created especially for vegies. If you want to grow organically, that’s achievable too – just use a mix that has been certified as organic.

Keep in mind...

Wear gloves and a mask when handling mulch, compost and potting mix. Take care when selecting your plants as some can be poisonous to children and pets, and check their suitability for your region, as some may be classified as weeds in certain states and territories. 

Have more space?

Check out our step-by-step guide to starting a vegetable garden.

Photo credit: Sue Stubbs, Adobe Stock.