Growing Vegetables In Containers And Limited Space

Not everyone has a large garden, or a space where they can raise vegetables. Some have only small yards, or even just a balcony.

In some cases they may want more space, for growing a few extra crops to expand their existing vegetable garden. Whatever the reason, growing vegetables in containers is a great way to solve the problem.However, vegetables in containers and will require regular maintenance and good soil fertility.

Containers are a great way for kids to get involved too. They love growing and watering things and this is a great way to let them join in without getting too dirty. They are also more likely to eat a vegetable if they have helped to grow it, so it`s also a good way of promoting healthy eating.

Some of the best crops for containers are those that mature quickly such as beetroot, radish and lettuce, as well as other vegetables like tomatoes and peppers.

Depending on the size of container and depth of soil available most vegetables can be grown  in containers, even potatoes, and carrots. It`s certainly worth having a go.

Key Points In Container Growing
 

• The soil must be fertile, good quality, well aerated, and free draining.
• Any container / pot must have holes in the bottom for drainage, otherwise the soil could become waterlogged.
• Make sure the container is wide enough and deep enough to accommodate the vegetables you wish to grow.
• Make sure pots and containers are strong and sturdy.
• Watering is critical. Hot and / or windy weather dries them out quickly.
• Site containers in place where they receive plenty of light.
• Site containers away from exposed areas or wind funnels.

 
Types Of Container
Well, virtually anything can be used, as long as it is adequate for the vegetable you wish to grow. From a single lettuce in a pot through to potatoes in a barrel. Old tyres, wooden containers, old sinks, buckets, chimney pots, you name it most everything as long as it can hold compost, has drainage, and is strong and safe, it will do for growing your vegetables.

Limited Space
As already mentioned, containers are great for gardens with limited space, but there are ways of growing vegetables in an existing garden which probably has no room for a designated vegetable patch.

Incorporating vegetables into your borders and beds amongst existing flowers and plants is easily done. People sometimes forget that vegetables can also be of interest for their flowers, leaf colour and shape which add contrast against existing flower schemes.

Even if there is little space try a few smaller vegetables in between.

Hanging Baskets and Window Boxes
Yes, similar to containers, but often not considered as places to grow vegetables, hanging baskets and window boxes are viable for producing smaller vegetables. With hanging baskets there are trailing varieties of tomatoes that do very well, and who`s to stop you from growing radishes or lettuces in your window box!.

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