How to grow vegetables in containers
When we think of growing vegetables, we might think of vast farmer’s fields, or large veggie patches in the back garden. However, did you know many vegetables can happily grow in containers?
From shallow planters to larger pots, window-boxes and even hanging baskets, growing veggies in containers means you can have access to fresh tasty vegetables whenever you need them (or just get a craving for them!), no matter what size of garden you have
Have a go at growing your own vegetables this spring by following our guide to container growing, you’ll soon have a bountiful collection of tasty veggies to tuck into all spring and summer
KNOW YOUR VEG
Carrot Early Nantes
Growing carrots in planters or patio containers is a great way to begin your grow-your-own journey at home - it makes a fun growing project for children too. Choose a container deep enough to accommodate the growing roots. These carrots are ready to pick after around 8 -10 weeks
Tomato Tumbling Tom
Ideal for growing in hanging baskets and window boxes for a non-stop supply of sweet cherry tomatoes on trailing stems. Irresistible to little and big fingers alike!
Lettuce Valmaine Cut and Come Again
Ideal for shallower containers, this fast-maturing seed mix includes a sweet tasting lettuce that’s delicious in salads and sandwiches. With regular cropping and successive sowings, it provides a continuous harvest, and it can be sown all year round if it's protected from the cold during the winter months
YOU WILL NEED:
Vegetable seeds of your choice
Good quality vegetable or multi-purpose compost
Liquid fertiliser such as seaweed extract
Plant labels
Gardening gloves
Step By Step Guide
Fill a container of your choice with vegetable or multi-purpose compost and water gently. Shallow containers are good for salad crops, while deeper pots work best for root crops like carrots. Hanging baskets and window boxes are ideal for herbs or trailing tomatoes
To grow your vegetables from seed, sow them evenly across the surface of the soil then cover with a fine layer of compost. Add a label so you remember what you’ve planted! This is the most economical way to grow lots of vegetables.
Alternatively, and for quicker results, plant ready-to-grow vegetable seedlings, which are available to buy in pots and strips. This is a great option for growing vegetables that prefer warm environments, like tomatoes, courgettes or chillies - or for those with not enough space or time to sow seeds
Keep your planted container under cover in a bright sunny spot protected from the cold. When all risk of frost has passed, move it outside to a sheltered spot
Water regularly to keep the compost moist. After about six weeks, feed the plant weekly with a liquid fertiliser to ensure strong and healthy growth
Pick your vegetables when they're ready, emptying and replanting your containers for an additional late season crop
OUR GARDENING EXPERT’S TOP TIP: Sow or plant little and often for a continual supply of tasty veg