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Vegetable garden container ideas


Vegetable garden container ideas for growing crops in pots |

(Image credit: Future)

There are many draws to vegetable garden container ideas, from their compact nature and flexibility through to the increased yields that each pot can produce. In fact, most vegetables grow well in containers, thriving on the nutrient rich soil and bespoke care that you can provide to each individual crop.

When it comes to creating your vegetable garden ideas, start by choosing varieties that you love to eat. This will help to guide your choice of containers (both material and size) as well as their positioning in your garden layout. 

'The power of pots shouldn’t be underestimated: well-placed containers can transform a garden. They set its style, completing the look and making strong statements,' says gardening expert Leigh Clapp. 'Take some time to consider what would suit your needs and where you may have space for containers in your garden.'

Vegetable garden container ideas 

Vegetable garden container ideas are a great way to maximize the yield of your crop. Cultivating plants in pots lets you curate all elements of the growing conditions, from soil quality and spacing to watering and feeding. Doing this enables you to create the perfect conditions for each plant, helping them to thrive. As a result, many gardeners opt for vegetable garden container ideas over planting their crops directly into the ground.

Once you've selected the vegetables you wish to grow in your vegetable garden container ideas, the next step is to select the pots. There are plenty of different container gardening ideas that will help to inform your vegetable garden design. 'Select your containers for their look as well as functionality. You don’t even have to use plant pots: old baskets lined with plastic, olive-oil cans, coal scuttles, crates, ancient watering cans, chimney pots or industrial salvage can all be adapted for plants, although you do still need to consider practicalities such as the durability, porosity and weight of the container,' advises Leigh Clapp.

Container vegetables – and fruit – are ideal for small garden ideas, balcony garden ideas or roof garden ideas, but they are also a good option for those with bigger plots, as they add interest and height, allow you to plant where soil might be poor, and easily change the layout of your crops year on year. They are also a great option when gardening with children as an easy way to grow crops

1. Add a trough planter for a compact and practical garden idea

(Image credit: Future/Tim Young)

Raised garden bed ideas are the natural choice of vegetable garden container ideas. Transforming unruly beds into a contained space, they are perfect for cultivating a wide variety of crops. However, they are often low to the ground which can make tending them difficult. 

A trough planter, on the other hand, is raised to standing height meaning you can easily harvest and tend your crops without hunching over or kneeling down. The elevated crops are also better protected from ground foraging pests than those in traditional raised beds.

As well as being a practical gardening solution, trough planters also offer the visual benefit of adding height to your plot, whether serving as a garden screening idea or neatly placed on a patio or against a wall. Their compact nature also makes them perfect for small garden ideas.

2. Add potted crops to bring productivity to your patio

(Image credit: Alamy)

Vegetable garden container ideas give you the opportunity to increase the productivity of your patio ideas. From beans and brassicas to tomatoes and pumpkins, there are so many different kitchen garden ideas that can be grown on a patio. Opt for attractive pots that will look pretty as part of your patio display and then pair with your favorite crops. Position your planted pots in a place where the vegetables can thrive. 

‘You don’t have to spend big on landscaping or dig up half your garden for a fancy vegetable patch, add a lot of character to your garden by planting in pots and containers and scattering them around your garden. Use them to line your patio or seating space to add symmetrical vibrance to your outdoor space. You can repurpose household items to give a unique look to your garden, think unwanted furniture, vintage finds or even an old wheelbarrow,' says Jack Sutcliffe, co-founder of Power Sheds .

3. Grow potatoes in a bag

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Potatoes are one of the easiest vegetables to grow and are actually best grown in containers over being grown in the ground. If grown in a border, potatoes spread into all the available soil, not just the small section where planted. This means that when it comes to harvesting, it is nearly impossible to harvest all of the crop. These left potatoes will then start unwanted potato plants in your border the following year. By growing in a bag or pot you can ensure that you don't leave any 'volunteer' potatoes behind to start new plants.  

'Potatoes are a high-yielding plant that will really deliver. Planting potatoes in bags is a great addition to small vegetable garden ideas. Grow bags make harvesting potatoes really easy and it helps with the maintenance of the plant,' says Shelby DeVore, avid gardener and founder of Farminence .

If you want to know where to start make sure you know how to grow potatoes in a container or how to grow potatoes in a bag – you'll be harvesting spuds in no time.

4. Choose the best crops for vegetable container ideas

(Image credit: Andrew Montgomery)

From delicate leafy herbs to root vegetables and fruit trees, there’s no reason why – given a little thought, forward planning and, of course, some tender loving care – you can’t grow varied, productive vegetable garden container ideas, whatever the space or conditions. 

'If I could grow only one type of thing in my vegetable container garden, it would be salad leaves and I recommend new gardeners start with this,' says Great Dixter vegetable gardener and chef Aaron Bertelsen and author of Growing Fruit & Vegetables in Pots . 

'They’re easy to grow, make good use of space and taste much better than shop bought. A couple of pots of cut-and-come again leaves will give you fresh salads for months.' 

Other stars of the vegetable container garden include chard and kale, structural plants such as globe artichokes, and showstoppers like peas and gloriously varied sea kale.

5. Choose the right container

(Image credit: Peter Chatterton)

As well as complementing your garden, it's important to ensure that the vegetable garden container ideas you choose are compatible with the plants you want to grow.

'In general, containers need to be 4in wider and deeper than the root ball,' says Clapp. 'Shallow containers, around 12-16in deep, are suitable for shallow-rooted herbs and annual vegetables, as you can replenish the soil each season when you replant. Larger choices, such as aubergines or tomatoes, do best as one plant per container.'

'The container needs to suit the available space and the style of your property,' says Isabel Palmer, founder and author of The Balcony Gardener . 'From terracotta and stone to galvanized metal, the choice of container material is endless.

'Using a large container has distinct advantages, as it gives vegetable garden container ideas room to grow and works better aesthetically; lots of tiny pots can make a space look smaller and more cluttered.'

6. Nourish vegetable garden container ideas for a bumper harvest

(Image credit: Andrew Montgomery)

Typically there are three compost soil types available: for sowing seeds; for potting on small plants; and for long-term and permanent plantings. Sold alongside these you will also find multi-purpose composts that contain added nutrients, but soil-based mixes are always a better bet. Their structure means they retain nutrients for longer, and they are also more similar to the soil plants grow in naturally. 

Most commercial compost mixes include a slow-release plant food, which lasts between four and six weeks. Then it’s a good idea to feed your containers once a week.  

'I use liquid seaweed, an excellent feed for all crops, simply adding it to the watering can. Despite its name, tomato food is also a great all-round fertilizer, and is available in both liquid and granule forms. Plants also benefit from being top-dressed with organic matter. Sprinkle in a few handfuls of a fertilizer like blood, fish and bone meal. Then add a layer of fresh compost or leaf mould,' advises Aaron Bertelsen.

7. Design raised beds containers to suit your space perfectly 

(Image credit: Yeo Valley Organic Garden)

Raised garden beds are a great choice for vegetable garden container ideas – the main benefit being that you can learn how to build a raised garden bed so that it will fit your space, however large or small, and at a height that suits. 

DIY garden beds tend to be constructed from wood, however, 'there are a number of good materials for raised beds,’ says Your Garden Made Perfect designer Tom Massey . 

‘I like Corten steel for its durability and capacity to be bent or folded into unusual shapes. The deep rust color is also attractive and looks good with other materials such as buff-colored gravel or paving.’ 

Not everyone has the budget for Corten steel though. ‘Mild steel is a good alternative,’ suggests Tom. ‘It’s not as long lasting, but will still outlive timber.’ 

If you do choose timber, use untreated wood to avoid contamination of any edible plants. Untreated oak sleepers are a good option, or more affordable thermo-treated pine. 

8. Grow vegetable garden container ideas in a greenhouse

(Image credit: Future/Annaick Guitteny)

If you're wondering what vegetables to grow in a greenhouse, then be sure to plan well before you start a new growing season. Some gardeners decide to build raised beds or even ground level beds in their greenhouse, but the majority prefer to adopt vegetable garden container ideas, preferring their ease and flexibility.

Of course deciding what to grow can be a challenge – start by considering the best food to grow in a greenhouse and go from there. 'Identify what you want to grow and which varieties of crop will happily co-exist side-by-side,’ recommends Alitex ’s John Lawson. 

A multitude of plants and greenhouse ideas all requiring widely different temperature, light and humidity levels are unlikely to thrive, unless the greenhouse has been designed from the outset to have separate partitioned zones in which different growing environments can be maintained. 

‘Make sure you stick to a routine. Water at the same time every day. Keep an eye out for pests such as slugs, greenfly, whitefly and red spider mite, and act quickly to prevent an infestation.’ 

9. Plant a mix of veg in willow planters

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Willow and wicker planters are perfect for adding a natural look and texture to the patio, and help to soften hard landscaping. 

Here, a variety of vegetables, including zucchinis, brassicas and corn, are cleverly used as companion planting with nasturtiums.

'Nasturtiums help to deter aphids and are often used as a sacrificial plant so aphids and black fly attack them but stay away from your precious vegetables,' says Emma O'Neill from Garden Organic .

10. Plant trailing squashes and pumpkins in large containers

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

For vegetable garden container ideas with impact, consider trailing striking pumpkins and squashes from large planter box ideas.

Trailing vegetables have a soft, romantic look that's ideal for cottage garden ideas. However, they can spread out by as much as 6ft, so need a bit of growing room.

You can also grow pumpkins and squashes vertically in containers, adding support to grow upwards – perfect for small spaces.

In this garden, dwarf sunflowers beautifully complement the colors of the fruit, while the galvanized metal container adds a classic look and will weather over time.

11. Plant beans and other veg in repurposed planters

(Image credit: Peter Chatterton)

Height is an essential component in any backyard ideas, adding balance and structure to the space. Height is just as important when designing vegetable garden container ideas. This is where vegetable garden trellis ideas come into their own.

Growing runner beans and peas can make a striking addition to cottage patio ideas and can be grown up trellis or canes and enjoyed for both their foliage and attractive flowers. 'A wigwam of beans in a container takes up little room and looks pretty in flower,' says Clapp.

'Make use of varieties with unusual flower colors, such as broad bean Crimson Flowered and runner bean Celebration or Painted Lady,' adds Peter Adams, edibles team leader at RHS Rosemoor .

12. Grow tomatoes in pots

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Growing tomatoes as one of your vegetable garden container ideas is perfect, as they are space efficient and enjoyable to tend to on the patio.

There are a few considerations, as you will need to choose a variety of tomato that is suited to the outdoors in your climate. However, there are a huge range to choose from.

Most tomato varieties can be grown in containers, but you will need to bear in mind their ultimate size and growth habit if adding them to a small garden or balcony.

Sungold, Patio and Terenzo are popular cherry varieties for containers, Tumbling Tom is ideal for hanging baskets, Big Boy and Champion are good bush varieties, and Gardener's Delight is perfect for growing as a cordon. 

13. Make a pretty plant display

(Image credit: Polly Eltes)

Crops that can be grown in smaller containers can be used to create a charming display on a plant stand. Here, chilis and herbs have been placed alongside potted geraniums, for a mix of foliage and flowers.

Plant stands are available as both wood or metal, and are ideal for adding vertical interest where a trellis would not be an option. Alternatively, you could repurpose vintage steps to add instant character to your garden.

14. Use a mix of different vegetable containers

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Even if you already have beds in your garden, vegetable garden container ideas can be used to play with height and add a layered effect. 

'I like to use galvanized metal tubs and large zinc planters. A reclaimed onion box or wine crate also makes the perfect container – the warm tones of the wood providing a perfect foil for the plants,' says Palmer. 

'If you crave a little color, then just paint an upcycled container.'

15. Plant a cut-and-come-again lettuce bowl

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Cut-and-come-again lettuce is an essential crop for salad lovers, and an ideal first crop for beginners.

To grow lettuce, simply plant up a few containers using a mixed lettuce seed variety and harvest the leaves regularly, snipping off the older greenery from the outer edges.

If you find pests a problem, a container of this size can be easily be protected with mesh or netting, so only you will enjoy feasting on your home-grown bounty.

Sow a successional crop and you will be in supply of this healthy salad for much of the year.

16. Get a vintage look with upcycled containers

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

One of the most creative vegetable container garden ideas, is to upcycle and paint your own planters. Using bright colors will beautifully offset the foliage of your crops.

In this garden, vintage steel drums have been painted in bright shades and etched with flower designs, but you can achieve any look you want on different types of container, including wooden and terracotta designs. 

Use your upcycled containers to plant climbers such as beans and peas, or low-growing veg such as brassicas, fennel or carrots.

'If you are looking for vintage or unusual pieces, local sales, antiques centers and charity shops are rich hunting grounds. When choosing, always consider the weight-bearing capacity of balconies and roof gardens, if you live in an apartment,' says Palmer.

17. Plant salads and herbs in the center of a table

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Imagine how delightful it would be to eat lunch at this planted table, picking herbs and salad leaves as you go along.

This custom table is designed with a central planter, but you can easily recreate the effect by positioning a long container in the middle of your table. Add color to the display by interspersing the crops with low-growing flowers.

A creative patio design really maximizes the potential to grow vegetables in containers – this one features steps holding baskets of brassicas and planters running around the perimeter.

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Vegetable garden container ideas can be productive and beautiful, with statement foliage used to make a dramatic centerpiece.

'When choosing varieties of vegetables to grow, look for ones with colorful leaves and stems, like beetroot Bull’s Blood, or unusual leaves like curly kales that come in a fantastic array of colors, such as kale Candy Floss,' says Adams.

Squashes and pumpkins tend to have big leaves that can be used to add structure to a garden, but even zucchinis planted at a higher level can create a stunning focal point.

19. Grow microgreens in pots for a quick, easy crop

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you're very limited on space, or lack the patience to wait several weeks or months for your crops to grow, then growing microgreens is the answer.  

These miniature vegetable or herb seedlings are packed with flavor and nutrients, and are ready to harvest in as little as five days.

‘They may be small, but it’s as if all the flavour of the mature plant is concentrated,’ says Alex Mitchell, author of Crops in Tight Spots . 

You can grow microgreens in containers either indoors on a sunny windowsill, or in the garden. They need to be densely planted in order to maximize the crop, and are delicious added to salads and sandwiches.

20. Position pots among the flowers

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Pots don't have to be confined to the patio, and can look lovely nestled in among your flower bed ideas. In fact, taking this approach can offer companion planting benefits, as pots can be moved close to flowers that deter pests.

'Edibles among your flower beds can blend attractively beside other plants, emulating the traditional potager cottage gardens of the past,' says Clapp.

Strawberries are a classic choice for containers as they do best raised off the ground. Here, a vintage chimney pot has been used as a tall planter, and is accompanied by a tomato plant and pot of carrots.

What vegetables grow best in containers?

Most vegetables will grow well in containers, but those that really thrive include many of the summer vegetables that will be usefully to have on hand on the patio as you pass from kitchen to barbecue and back. These include: tomatoes, eggplant, green beans, lettuce, peppers and chilis, radishes, herbs and even squash.

How do you layout a vegetable garden container?

The best way to layout a vegetable garden container is to adopt a laid-back assortment of pots, gathered naturalistically in waves. Also allow your layout to be guided by companion planting ideas so that you can get you the best results in your garden. 

'Positioning close to the kitchen allows you to pop out quickly and grab a quick handful or a larger harvest as needed,' says gardening expert Leigh Clapp

What size container do I need to grow vegetables?

The size of container you need to grow vegetables obviously depends on the type of vegetables you are growing. For small vegetables, such as herbs and lettuce – and dwarf varieties, a two gallon container will be large enough. For mid-sized vegetables, such as peppers, tomatoes, beans and eggplant, you will ideally need a 5 gallon container. 

Is it safe to grow vegetables in plastic containers?

Yes, it is safe to grow vegetables in plastic containers. However, if you are concerned then opt for plant pots that are BPA free as this will ensure no harmful chemicals seep into your food. 

As editor of Period Living, Britain's best-selling period homes magazine, Melanie loves the charm of older properties. I live in a rural village just outside the Cotswolds in England, so am lucky to be surrounded by beautiful homes and countryside, where I enjoy exploring. Having worked in the industry for almost two decades, Melanie is interested in all aspects of homes and gardens. Her previous roles include working on Real Homes and Homebuilding & Renovating, and she has also contributed to Gardening Etc. She has an English degree and has also studied interior design. Melanie frequently writes for Homes & Gardens about property restoration and gardening.

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22 Stunning Container Vegetable Garden Design Ideas & Tips

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Container Vegetable Garden Design Ideas to maximize harvest and make your edible garden less boring.
Here are the best vegetables for containers 

1. Grow Climbers and Vines

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Support climbing vegetables and vines and direct them upward with the help of a trellis or a cage or by any other way.

Such plants use vertical space and are abundant in production. Bitter melon (a unique tropical gourd known for its health benefits), gourds, cucumber, pole beans and other beans, Malabar spinach, vine tomatoes, squashes, peas, if you want to try– pumpkin and melons.

2. Choose Colorful Containers

You can brighten up your container vegetable garden by choosing colorful containers to grow your favorite vegetable and herbs.

3. Use Hanging Baskets

Image Credit: HGTV

Don’t cast out the idea of growing herbs and vegetables in hanging baskets. Tomatoes, strawberries, many other vegetables, and herbs can be grown in hanging baskets successfully. It also creates space!

4. Start One Pot Vegetable Garden

This one-pot vegetable garden idea is perfect if you don’t have space to set up a container garden. It is also useful for those who have a small balcony or open window that receives full sun. We picked up this idea from Sunset, read more there!

5. Try this Vertical Lettuce Planter Idea

We love this project done by Bonnie Plants, and why not? You can grow fresh herbs and greens easily in a limited space by following this idea. They have a step-by-step DIY article on this for you to look at, check out!

6.

Grow Edible Flowers

To add some interest, color, and beauty, it’s a good idea to grow some edible flowers. You can use them in salads to garnish your meal or make sharbat.

Flowers like marigold, calendula, viola, nasturtiums can be tried. The list is long, and you can discover more names here.

7. Give Space to Herbs

Your container vegetable garden may look incomplete if you don’t grow some herbs. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste of your meal always, so it’s a great idea.

You don’t need to grow all the herbs. Consider adding 2-3 plants that you like most and suit your location: Parsley, thyme, mint, sage, oregano, cilantro, and much more to choose from. A window box, a few small containers, hanging baskets can also be used.

8. Tomatoes are Must!

Tomatoes are a wonderful and the most important addition to a container vegetable garden. They look beautiful too. Choose 2-3 varieties and grow a few plants to get a bountiful harvest of homegrown tomatoes. Learn about the best tomato varieties for the container in this post.

9. Add Colorful Varieties

Vegetables and herbs with different textures, attractive foliage, and colors can be an excellent addition to your container vegetable garden; they can add visual interest to it.

Red hot pepper, red-stemmed swiss chard, round midnight basil, fine leaf rosemary with other herbs like lemongrass or thyme can make it look appealing. Here’s an interesting post on colorful vegetables for you to see!

10. Use Unique Planters

Use unique planters to provide virtual interest to your container vegetable garden. You can recycle and DIY your own planters or buy a few in unusual shapes and sizes. There are a lot of DIY ideas available on our website for help.

11. Play with the Height

If you don’t want your vegetable garden to look boring, play with the height. Don’t use planters of similar size and height. Instead, group large and small containers together, this will create a visual appeal.

Tip: Group plants according to their height to create a garden-like surrounding effect. To do this, place tall plants in the back and short and low growing plants like herbs and greens in front.

12. Grow a Lemon Tree

Growing a lemon tree in a pot is not difficult and is probably an intelligent addition to your container vegetable garden. Here’s our step-by-step post on it!

13. Take Help of Vertical Gardening

Lettuces in the window boxes in a balcony

The biggest challenge of limited space gardening is limited space itself. To beat this, take the help of Vertical Gardening. Use shoe racks, bookshelves, and plant holders to keep more pots.

If you’re a balcony gardener, railing planters and hanging planters are a must. Besides, there are many other unique vertical gardening ideas available here.

14. Start with the Productive and Easiest Container Vegetables

Try succession planting for continuous harvest and grow the most productive and easiest container vegetables for a successful harvest. Here’s our article on it.

15. Try this One Pot Herb Garden Idea

Image Credit: Southern Living

Growing herbs is easy to grow along with other vegetables you’re growing. We found this One-pot herb garden idea on Southern Living fascinating for urban gardeners. See the full post here!

16. Stake ’em Up!

Staking is also a good way to grow vegetables like tomatoes easily in containers in a tight spot. You can train the plant to grow vertically, saving a lot of space. If you have a sunny balcony, patio, or rooftop, all you need is a large container to grow multiple plants together and enjoy a fresh, homegrown harvest.

17. Make a Salad Table Garden

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A Salad Table is an ingenious way to grow plants like spinach and lettuce. Just find a sunny spot and keep the table there, simple! You can easily get them ready-made from the market or make one for yourself at home.

Check out some impressive Salad Table ideas here

18. Try Raised Beds

Instead of growing veggies on the ground, you can grow them in raised beds instead. They are easy to maintain this way, compared to a traditional garden–If you have a back problem, want to control the quality of the soil, or looking to improve the drainage.

Here’s everything you need to know about making Raised Beds

19. Go the Hydroponic Way

Want to grow vegetables hydroponically? Check out some of the best DIYs here. You can also use PVC pipes for this purpose. One similar DIY is here to watch on YouTube.

View these hydroponic vertical garden ideas here

20. Grow Exotic Vegetables

Finding fresh, exotic veggies like Black tomatoes, Romanesco Broccoli, Mexican Sour Gherkin, Dragon Carrot, Red Perilla, and Thai Basil can be a tough job at the supermarket–so why not grow them at your home?

Here are the most exotic vegetables and herbs you can grow in containers

21. Make a Movable Garden

If your garden doesn’t get all the sunlight it needs, do not let that stop you from growing veggies. DIY a movable garden, which is basically a raised bed on wheels. This way, you can grow vegetables and move them around accordingly, where they get the right sun exposure to thrive well.

Check out some amazing movable garden ideas here

22. Save Space by Making a Herb Tower

Yes! You read that right! You can grow herbs in a tower form to save space and plant multiple of them together.

Have a look at some impressive herb tower ideas here

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13 ideas on how to make an unusual flower container with your own hands

Do not rush to get rid of, at first glance, unnecessary things. Many of them can easily become an excellent material for making original flower vases that can be used to decorate a garden, veranda or balcony.

Sometimes for inspiration it is enough just to look around, and now the idea itself comes to mind! Look in a closet, a garage, a kitchen drawer with unnecessary utensils - for sure, among the "trash" there is something from which you can easily make a beautiful "designer" container.

1. Wine corks

You have been collecting bottle caps for several years, but still haven't figured out what to make from them? In the meantime, all this "good" only does what it successfully collects dust and takes up space on the shelf. Use corks as a material to create a textured flowerpot. Find a suitable container, glue wine corks on the outside (you can also use small wooden blocks), then paint the flowerpot in your favorite color. Monochromatic "spiky" flowerpots, for example, white or black, look spectacular.

2. Concrete slabs

If you've recently completed your landscaping and garden paths, you probably still have concrete slabs for your path. This strong and durable material will make beautiful minimalist flower containers. Take 5 tiles of the same size and join them together with a special construction adhesive. If desired, you can paint the container in any color, but even without paint it will look original.

3. Concrete blocks

Continuing the topic of concrete, we would like to add that there is an easier way to make a flowerpot using the material left over from construction work, which is probably hiding somewhere in the corner of your yard. As a matter of fact, the composition of concrete containers will look great just in the corner or against the wall of the house. Paint the blocks with spray paint (because it's convenient, and spray paint has a brighter color scheme), arrange the containers however you like, and plant the plants.

4. Cans

It's really hard to find something as functional and "reusable" as a tin or coffee can! Long proven to be an excellent container for worms (those that are taken with them on a fishing trip), an excellent ashtray and a modest pencil holder, the tin never ceases to amaze and appears before us as a stylish piece of furniture. Slightly bend the jar with a hammer, then paint with golden spray paint.

5. Glass jars

Do not lag behind tin and their glass counterparts, of which there are plenty on any balcony, mezzanine or in the pantry. Of course, glass jars are useful for preparing blanks from the crop harvested at the site, but why not select a couple of jars for the design of the dacha from the inviolable "glass" stock? Here paint will help you again: choose a color scheme, paint the inside and outside of the jars. You can use a stencil to make a pattern on the flowerpot (see photo above).

6. Car tires

Yes, yes, those same tired rubber tires are also on our list of flower container ideas. But don't make a face at the mention of these words in a conversation about site design. Here, as in any other case, the main thing is not to "overdo it": paint the tires, but do not make patterns - the "native" wheel texture will be enough. Place such containers in one place, having thought over the composition.

If you are against "tire" design and are going to get rid of old tires, do not in any case burn them, but rather take them to a specialized center for recycling.

7. Log or log

A garden container can be made not only from a log or a log, but also from a stump, driftwood and other natural wooden materials with an interesting shape. To do this, clean the log you like from debris, carefully remove the core, fill it with earth and plant flowers.

8. Old furniture

Of course, you shouldn't put all the old furniture in the garden, but a nice chest of drawers, a chair or a table with drawers will become a charming decoration if you plant low flowers in them. Before filling the boxes with earth, treat the wooden furniture with a special protective agent.

9. Unused crockery

Let's say you've already decorated your garden with an old table stylized as a flowerpot (or vice versa, it's up to you!). Why not put some cracked cups from your favorite service on this table? Metal objects also look good: a teapot, a coffee pot, a saucepan. A colander can be used as a hanging planter, pre-painted with paint.

10. Chandelier

An ordinary chandelier looks just as good as a metal colander as a hanging planter. You can’t plant many plants in such a container, but how impressive such a decoration looks! Monochromatic painting will make the chandelier pots brighter and more original.

11. Paint can

We are back to the banks again - and where without them! This time the container will be larger than in the case of the tin and glass jar. If after painting work you still have cans of paint, add (if necessary) a few "streaks", cut a drainage hole and plant a flower in a flowerpot.

12. Broken tiles

Broken ceramic tiles are an excellent decoration material. To make a beautiful flowerpot, find a container (like an unsightly flower pot) and arm yourself with glue. Break the tile (if necessary) into smaller pieces, wash and dry the base pot. Using glue, fix the pieces of tile on the surface of the pot, then varnish the product.

13. Rope

Jute rope, twine or other material in the right hands can transform any container. Pay attention to the image on the left below (see photo above) - by the way, this is a tire unloved by many! You will need glue, a base container and a rope: smearing the surface and the rope with glue, wrap the base and let dry.

We hope we were able to inspire you to create unusual flower containers. We will be glad to see photos of your beautiful "crafts" in the comments to the article!

Ideas for container gardens and orchards on a small plot. Container growing plants, mobile design. Cucumbers in containers

Hello dear friends!

The quality of flower seedlings, as well as vegetable crops, depends on many factors - seed germination, illumination, moisture schedule, soil composition. Not the last role is played by the chosen ones. The choice is now very large. Size, shape, material - all these indicators vary depending on the garden culture and the skills of the gardener.

Peat Pots

These disposable containers are very convenient to use. They are filled with soil, the seeds are covered, moistened and exposed to light. Upon reaching the desired size, the seedlings are transplanted to the garden along with the pot. Pressed peat is not an obstacle to growing roots, and over time it breaks down into useful nutrients for plants. Peat pots are ideal for use by novice gardeners, although more experienced summer residents who already have the skill of transplanting seedlings prefer to use just such containers.

Peat containers come in different sizes, so it is important to choose the right one for each crop. Too tight containers will not allow the roots to develop normally, and too spacious will take up extra space and require more planting soil. Smaller seeds are planted in smaller containers, for example, celery - in pots No. 5, No. 8 is suitable for tomatoes and peppers. Larger seeds and seedlings (pumpkin, watermelon) require peat pots No. 9. Read also about growing young plants .

Plastic containers for growing seedlings

They also come in different shapes and sizes. These can be cassettes, individual cups or large containers for several seedlings. Individual cups are, of course, preferable, as they make it possible to create a certain microclimate for a young plant and reduce the risk of accidental injury to the root system during transplantation. Plastic containers, when handled with care, can be reused, which is a small but budget saving. However, the height of such containers is insignificant and rarely exceeds 15 cm, so large tall seedlings in such conditions have a hard time.

Plastic containers should be thoroughly rinsed before use and must be disinfected in a strong solution of potassium permanganate, bleach or copper sulphate. In the bottom you need to make a small hole that will protect the roots of the seedling from stagnant water.

Plastic bags

For growing seedlings, you can successfully use milk and kefir bags. They are bulkier than plastic cups and are suitable for larger items. Their height can be adjusted depending on the size of the seedlings grown. But since there are containers for growing seedlings do not hold their shape well, they should be placed tightly together and placed in a tall tray or box. In the lower part of such containers, it is also necessary to make three or four holes for seepage of excess water, and disinfect before filling the substrate.

See you, dear friends!

Ecology of life. Homestead: Even those who have balconies or very small terraces can grow "vegetables from the garden" to the table with the help of a simple container garden. There is an opportunity to do gardening even on the windowsill!

The container garden is an interesting topic that I came across. I have known container gardens for a long time, but somehow I didn’t think about growing vegetables and herbs in containers, considering gardening to be the prerogative of land owners.

But no, everything is not so categorical! Even those who have balconies or very small terraces can grow "vegetables from the garden" to the table with the help of a simple container garden. There is an opportunity to do gardening even on the windowsill!

There are special techniques for growing vegetables in boxes and for owners of plots of land - such vegetable growing makes it easier to cultivate the land, cultivate beds and increase crop yields.

One of the popular methods for growing vegetables in containers is the Mittlider method of growing vegetables in boxes. This method is applicable for people with a plot of land, a large balcony or loggia (growing vegetables on the windowsill will be discussed later)

Plant boxes are recommended to be installed in sunny places. In the shade of buildings, under trees, in lowlands (where there may be problems with drainage), containers with vegetable plants should not be installed. Vegetable plants growing under trees or in the shade of houses will not bear fruit well. Do not put boxes in places where rainwater flows and stagnates.

Boxes can be made from different materials: wood, brick, concrete, cinder blocks. You can even make boxes from old sleepers in which the creosote has already lost its toxicity (you can’t make fresh ones!).

Pots for growing vegetables at home

The simplest and most affordable containers for growing vegetables on a windowsill or balcony are pots. These can be ceramic and plastic bowls, as well as other containers, such as metal ones.

Pots for growing herbs, onions, lettuce can be as deep as 5 centimeters! For plants with a developed root system - tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, containers no smaller than 20 centimeters deep will be required.

Oddly enough, the simplest container for growing vegetables is a plastic bag with soil! It is enough to fill several garbage bags folded into each other with a substrate and tie the edges, cut holes for seeds or seedlings, and you can grow an excellent tomato crop in them!

Please note that you can plant 3 tomato plants or 5 strawberries in a small 30 liter garbage bag. Do not forget to make holes in them to drain excess moisture, they should be at the bottom of the bag.

For filling containers, the following nutrient mixture is recommended: 2.5 parts of compost, 2 - humus, 2 - soddy soil, 1.5 - peat, 1 - perlite, expanded clay, slag or crushed polystyrene foam and 1 - mineral fertilizers (per 10 kg a mixture of 30 g of superphosphate and 10 g of urea and potassium salt).
Growing cucumbers on a balcony

Cucumbers can be grown on a trellis on a balcony. The essence of this method is that the aerial part of the plant is attached to a vertical support along which the plant will curl. Any device that can support the weight of the plant with fruits will do.

Great skill is not needed to create such supports: just stick into the containers in which the cucumbers are planted, pegs up to one and a half meters long, and pull three rows of wire at a distance of fifty centimeters. Then, from the top row of wire, lower a twine or rope to the cucumber seedlings and tie it to the two lower wires, and fasten the lower edge of the twine or rope in the ground at the base of the seedlings with a hook made of wire. It is also necessary that the seedlings catch the antennae on the twine or rope.

One of the main advantages of growing cucumbers on a trellis is that the ground part of the cucumber will be more air-blown, which will contribute to a smaller temperature difference, which contributes to a stable moisture regime, which prevents the appearance of downy mildew on cucumbers. Also, experience shows that growing cucumbers on a trellis prolongs and increases the fruiting of cucumbers and simplifies the process of planting care. published

It happens that there is no place left for a greenhouse on the site, or you have fundamentally decided to abandon it. In the conditions of the Non-Black Earth Region, this means that traditional "greenhouse" vegetables will have to be dispensed with, because they are more capricious and demanding of heat than ground crops. But you can still grow them by replacing the greenhouse with containers. On a small patch of land, or even in its absence (on a veranda, balcony or loggia), you can grow a quite tangible crop of "southerners", spending much less effort on it than on greenhouse chores.

There are many crops that can be successfully grown in containers. First of all, these are tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, as well as spicy herbs (basil, rosemary, oregano, thyme, marjoram, sage, lavender and others). Various containers can be used as containers: flowerpots, pots, boxes or even double plastic bags. It is better to choose pots, flowerpots and boxes with a double bottom: in the top there are drainage holes for draining excess water, the bottom plays the role of a pallet.

Cucumbers in containers

For growing in a small amount of soil, varieties with certain qualities are suitable: relative drought resistance, shade tolerance, powerful root system ( F1 Balcony,  F1 Balagan,  F1 City Cucumber,  F1 Calendar,  F1 Hummingbird,  F1 Swallowtail, etc.). The compact dimensions of plants of these varieties (short internodes, medium-sized leaves, while the main stem is long) allow efficient use of a limited volume of capacity. And numerous small, long-lasting greens of excellent quality can be harvested for a long time, even if fruit collection is carried out irregularly.

Seeding

With the onset of stable warm weather (the optimum temperature for germination of cucumber seeds is +24 ... + 26 ° C), dry or germinated seeds can be sown immediately in pots or flowerpots. The seeds are laid out to a depth of 1.5-2 cm in well-moistened soil and covered with moist soil or peat sifted through a sieve, slightly compacting it (but not watering). In the case of sowing germinated seeds, the peat sprinkled on top is not compacted. The temperature of the soil should not fall below 18-20 ° C - otherwise the growth of seedlings will slow down.

The minimum amount of substrate for one plant is 5 liters, in a smaller volume the soil will dry out a lot during the fruiting period. Any loose earth, peat (horse, lowland), compost, various peat-soil mixtures are suitable. Moisture-retaining additives (for example, garden gel) can be added to the soil. The containers are filled with soil mixture, without adding 5-6 cm to the top edge. During the growing season, as the soil shrinks, it can again be added to the original level. To speed up the start of fruiting, it is better to plant pre-grown seedlings in containers. The optimal age of seedlings is 10-20 days (plants with 2-3 true leaves). But older plants can also be planted. If the seedlings of ordinary cucumber varieties begin to “fall sideways” (overgrow) in the phase of 5-6 true leaves, then in “container” cucumbers, due to the strong stem and small leaves, young plants can stand upright and with 6-8 true leaves.

Growing methods, shaping

Cucumbers grown in containers must be tied to supports. They are placed on the sides of the balcony or along the wall. Each plant, as it grows, will need to be wrapped around twine - a vertical twine attached from above to a stationary support. In open areas and verandas, it is very convenient to use a mobile trellis - these are boxes, pots or flowerpots with a lattice structure already attached to them, replacing the trellis wire. Plants in them can be easily transferred from place to place at any age. A mobile trellis can be in the form of a U-shaped contour made of wood or metal, fixed to the sides of the flowerpot, it can be in the form of a ladder or other structure. Plants are allowed along the very contour or twine is tied to the contour, wrapping the stems around them (as in a greenhouse).

Cucumbers on mobile trellises need to be shaped. Since their height is lower than in the greenhouse, the plants are treated differently from the greenhouse ones. The lower 2-3 stem nodes are completely blinded (ovaries and side shoots are removed). In the next 1-2 nodes, the ovaries are left, and the side shoots are plucked. Above the stem, the side branches are left, pinching them to the middle of the height of the trellis by 2 sheets, and higher - by 3-4 sheets. Shortening the side shoots accelerates the growth of the stem in height, enhances the filling of greens.

The top of the stem can be formed in different ways: pinch it when the plant reaches the maximum height of the trellis, pinch it over the 3-5th node above the trellis, or, by carefully twisting or bending the stem over the upper crossbar, release it down and then pinch it at a height of 50- 60 cm from the surface of the pot or flowerpot. If you need to enhance the decorative effect, you can leave rather long side shoots at the bottom of the stem.

Maintenance

Caring for plants in containers is practically the same as caring for plants in a greenhouse. It should be remembered that cucumbers consume a large amount of water, so watering should be plentiful and regular. Plantings will also have to be fed more often than in the ground, about once every 5-7 days. For top dressing, it is better to use ready-made complex water-soluble mixtures, better mixed organomineral ones.

"Chamber" tomatoes

Undersized dwarf varieties are best suited for container growing. Tall tomatoes in boxes or pots often do not have enough nutrition for normal growth. In addition, they require special shaping. But some tall tomato varieties are still suitable for container culture. These are the so-called small-fruited cherry (cherry) and cocktail tomatoes with small fruits, 15 g and 35-40 g, respectively. Plants of this group are very unpretentious, besides, they bear fruit early.

Ready tomato seedlings are planted in containers. Sowing time for insulated balconies and loggias is the beginning of March, for open ground - the end of March - the beginning of April. As soon as weather conditions allow (for glazed balconies, loggias and verandas - in early to mid-April, for open areas - in early May), the plants are placed in a permanent place. With a sharp decrease in temperature to minus the plants are covered with covering material or brought into the room. The optimum temperature is 25-28 °C during the day and 15-16 °C at night.

Watering and fertilizing

Tomatoes tolerate bright sun well and suffer from lack of light. Only in very hot weather should the plants be covered from direct sunlight. Tomatoes should be watered rarely, as the soil dries up (no more than twice a week), but plentifully, completely wetting the soil. It is better to water in the morning with warm water (20-25 ° C). If the tomatoes are planted in boxes, you need to water the soil around the bush, and not under the bush. After watering, the soil must be loosened. Simultaneously with the loosening of the soil, the plants spud, which contributes to the formation of new roots. If the soil has settled, you can sprinkle a layer of fresh peat or nutrient mixture on top.

Tomatoes are fed with a solution of mineral fertilizers, if necessary (weak growth), you can use organic matter, for example, mullein (1:5) at the rate of 1 liter of solution per plant.

The first feeding with complex mineral fertilizers (30 g per 10 l of water) is carried out a week after planting the seedlings. The rest of the top dressing is done at intervals of 10-12 days, mainly during the fruiting period. Good results are given by foliar top dressing, i.e. spraying the leaves with a weak nutrient solution. They contribute to better growth and development of plants and prevent shedding of flowers.

Shaping

It is better to form low-growing tomatoes in 2-3 stalks, for which, in addition to the first stepson, the second one is also left. Tall tomatoes are formed into one stem, cutting off all stepchildren.

The stems of tomatoes are brittle, therefore, as the seedlings grow, the plants are tied to stakes or to a trellis. Some tall varieties can be grown in hanging planters. If, for example, 2-3 shoots are left at the top of the stem of a cherry tomato, they will hang down very picturesquely. Standard tomatoes are not suitable for this method of cultivation, they have a strong stem, consisting of short internodes, which maintains an upright position for a long time.

Shoots developing in the leaf axils must be removed during the entire growth period. Without pinching, the plants turn out to be thickened, poorly illuminated and “fatten”. A good harvest from such bushes cannot be harvested. To avoid infection of plants with viral diseases, stepchildren do not cut, but break off with their fingers, trying not to damage the main shoot and leaves and leaving columns 2-3 cm high. Yellowed leaves, as well as leaves covering the fruits of the lower brushes of the plant, when these brushes are fully formed, should be removed in a timely manner.

Planned fruiting

Tomatoes are a self-pollinating crop. They do not need artificial pollination, but for better fruit set in cloudy and calm weather, you can slightly shake the flower brushes several times a day during the flowering period so that pollen from the upper flowers spills onto the lower ones. After tying the bulk of the fruit, pinch the top of the main shoot. At the same time, all flower brushes are cut off, since the fruits on them will not have time to form.

To accelerate the development of fruits, you can also use a technique called "tearing the roots." The plant is taken by the lower part of the stem and carefully pulled up, as if trying to pull it out of the soil in order to break off the small roots. Then the tomato is watered and spud.

Medical examination

In healthy, strong plants, the upper leaves can be slightly curled during the day, and straighten out at night - this is the norm. If the leaves of tomatoes are directed upwards at an acute angle and do not twist either day or night, flowers and ovaries fall off, then dry soil, high temperature, poor ventilation and low light of plants can serve as the cause.

With frequent watering and the introduction of a large amount of nitrogen and organic fertilizers into the soil, the plants "fatten" - powerful bushes grow with a thick stem and mighty stepchildren, however, as a rule, a very weak flower brush with a small number of flowers is formed. To straighten such plants, they are not watered for 7-10 days. In addition, to stun growth, it is necessary to make foliar top dressing with superphosphate (3 tablespoons per 10 liters of water). Tomatoes are watered with this solution at the rate of 1 liter per plant.

Court Pepper

Special varieties of sweet pepper are suitable for container culture - with a compact bush and small juicy fruits of various shapes and colors (Watercolor, Karat, Curiosity, Treasure Island, Mysterious Island, Etude, Yarik, etc.).

Seeding

Pepper seeds are sown in late March - early April, laid out in small (0.2 l) pots filled with 2/3 of nutrient soil (the earth must be poured as the stem grows and stretches). The grown seedlings are transplanted with a lump of earth into a large container. For normal growth, adult plants need a pot of 3-5 liters.

Pepper must be fed. Already in the phase of 1-2 pairs of true leaves, the plants are shed with a fertilizer solution (10 g of ammonium nitrate, 25-30 g of superphosphate, 15 g of potassium sulfate and half a tablet of micronutrient fertilizers per 10 liters of water or ready-made complex fertilizer). Top dressing must be repeated at intervals of 10-12 days during the entire growing period.

Plant care

After planting seedlings, watering should be frequent, but not very plentiful. As the fruit ripens, the need for water increases. Irregular watering at such a time leads to the appearance of cracks in the fruit. After watering, the soil is loosened, but carefully, since the root system of the pepper is not deep.

At high air humidity, especially in case of overheating, pepper pollen becomes unviable. Therefore, closed loggias and glazed balconies where peppers are grown must be ventilated on hot days and, if necessary, shaded, covering the plants from direct sunlight.

The optimum air temperature for plant growth is 24-28°C on sunny days, 20-22°C on cloudy days, 18-20°C at night, soil temperature 18-20°C. Low daytime air temperatures contribute to the appearance of short deformed fruits.

To improve fruit set, the bushes during flowering should be periodically shaken slightly. It is better not to plant sweet and hot peppers next to each other, since during pollination, the pollen of bitter pepper can get on the sweet one and the fruits will be bitter.

Plants in containers do not need special shaping. At the beginning of flowering, you just need to pinch the crown (first in branching) bud. This will speed up the tying of the next buds. For better ventilation and lighting, it is necessary to remove all shoots that have fruited and directed inward to the plant.

Bushes must be tied to a support (peg, trellis) so that they do not break off under the weight of the pouring crop.

To protect against pests, peppers in a container are treated with the same preparations as when grown in a greenhouse. For the prevention of viral diseases, spraying with skim milk is effective, especially in the first half of the growing season (1 liter of milk per 10 liters of water + 5 drops of iodine tincture) 5-7 times in seven days. The film formed as a result of processing prevents the introduction of infection.

Spice "wanderers"

It is often more convenient to grow outdoors in containers than in the ground. Many of them, such as mint and lemon balm, tend to spread in the garden, so the limited space of the pot or box, restraining the growth of the root system, contributes to the formation of compact bushes. In one container, it is quite possible to combine vegetables and spices, for example, tomatoes (pepper) with basil or coriander. Most herbs are unpretentious, they do not require a large amount of nutrients, they only need regular watering and good lighting. Plants will look good and produce more new shoots if they are trimmed regularly. You need to harvest by pinching off individual branches to give the shoots the opportunity to quickly grow back.

10/06/2016

Agriculture is one of the few areas of entrepreneurial activity that, even in the most difficult crisis period, is profitable and pays off quickly. The secret of the success of the agricultural business is simple - food products are always in the highest demand among the population, and this group of goods is the last to fall into the savings zone. Obviously, a particularly high demand for vegetables, fruits, herbs, mushrooms and other groups of agricultural products is observed in large cities (megacities) with a large population. At the same time, the conditions for doing this business in an urban location are difficult. A universal solution to this problem will be the arrangement of greenhouses with an optimal internal microclimate, for which converted containers are perfect.

The Foot Container company offers its customers the conversion of universal container blocks into greenhouses of various profiles, with the possibility of creating optimal microclimate conditions. Re-equipment in our company takes place on the most favorable terms and in the shortest possible time.

Technology for converting a container into a greenhouse

The technology of converting a cargo container block into a greenhouse depends primarily on the purpose of the future premises for growing agricultural products. Depending on the environmental conditions that are necessary for growing a particular type of vegetables, fruits, berries and herbs, a greenhouse is equipped and equipped. Twenty-foot containers of the DC and HC types are best suited for this purpose. In addition, quite often they are subjected to refurbishment.

There are several general rules and manipulations that are necessary for arranging an ideal greenhouse:

As a result of this comprehensive approach to maintaining microclimate parameters, plant growth in the greenhouse occurs quickly and naturally. In addition, when equipping a greenhouse, it is possible to install automatic sensors for turning on and off equipment (heating, air conditioning, ventilation, etc.) when certain parameters of temperature, humidity and purity of the air are reached.

Modern technologies make it possible to equip a place for growing plants using the latest high-performance methods, in particular the scientific achievements of hydroponics. When equipped with vertical hydroponic installations, it is possible to achieve maximum yield and proper rational use of space.

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