Container Gardening

Small-space gardening · UK guide

Container gardening

Great ideas for growing vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruit in pots, tubs, grow bags and other small spaces.

You do not need a garden to grow useful and beautiful plants. A balcony, patio, doorstep, courtyard or sunny windowsill can all become productive growing spaces when you choose the right containers and crops.

Getting started with containers

Choose the right position

Most vegetables need plenty of sunlight, so place containers where they will receive as much light as possible. Remember that the sun moves throughout the day.

Use suitable containers

Pots, troughs, tubs, grow bags and recycled containers can all work. Make sure they are strong enough and have drainage holes in the bottom.

Think about size

Larger containers hold moisture for longer and give roots more room. Smaller pots are useful for herbs, salad leaves and compact crops.

Use good compost

Choose a good-quality growing medium and avoid filling large containers with ordinary garden soil, which can become heavy and compacted.

Remember drainage

Raise pots slightly from the ground and check that water can drain freely. Waterlogged compost can damage roots quickly.

Plan for watering

Containers dry out faster than garden soil, particularly in warm or windy weather. Check them regularly and water thoroughly when needed.

Start with what you use most

Herbs, salad leaves, tomatoes, strawberries and chillies are all useful choices for container growing. Choose crops that you will actually eat or enjoy looking at.

Good crops for small spaces

Herbs

Grow parsley, chives, mint, thyme, basil and coriander close to the kitchen. Remember that mint is best kept in its own pot.

Salad leaves

Lettuce, rocket, mustard leaves and mixed salads grow quickly in shallow containers. Sow little and often for a continuous supply.

Tomatoes

Bush tomatoes are well suited to pots and hanging baskets. Larger varieties need a strong container, support and regular feeding.

Strawberries

Strawberries grow well in pots, towers and hanging baskets. Keep fruits off wet ground and protect them from birds.

Radishes

Radishes are quick-growing and do not need a deep container, making them useful for balconies and small patios.

Potatoes

Early potatoes can be grown in large tubs or specialist potato bags. Add compost as the plants grow and make sure the container drains well.

How to keep container plants healthy

  • Check containers regularly for dry compost.
  • Water deeply rather than giving a small splash.
  • Feed fruiting and flowering plants when necessary.
  • Remove dead leaves and faded flowers.
  • Support tall plants before they become top-heavy.
  • Protect containers from strong winds.
  • Raise pots to improve drainage.
  • Refresh compost between growing seasons.
  • Move tender plants into shelter before hard frost.

Make the most of vertical space

Grow upwards

Use canes, trellis or sturdy frames for climbing beans, peas, cucumbers and compact climbing crops.

Use shelves and stands

Raised shelves can create extra growing space, but make sure they are stable and will not block light from lower plants.

Small spaces can still produce plenty

You do not need dozens of pots to grow successfully. A few well-chosen containers, good compost and regular care can provide fresh herbs, salad leaves, fruit and vegetables throughout the growing season.