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Container Vegetable Gardening

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By DarleneMarie


Image by Miss Chien @Flickr
Image by Miss Chien @Flickr

Cabbage contains more Vitamin C than oranges, it also contains many other valuable nutrients like iodine, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, potassium. and Vitamin E.

Many assume that just because they live within a limited space like an apartment, condominium or townhouse think they are unable to grow a vegetable garden. However, just the opposite is true. Container vegetable gardening is gaining in popularity as more people become aware of the many varieties of herbs and vegetables easily thrive in containers.

Some choose not to vegetable garden because they believe these types of gardens are not visually appealing. Again, this is very easily remedied: Many vegetables can be incorporated even in containers right into the a flower garden landscape and provide beauty as well as bounty.

Here is a picture of our cabbages.  They are planted in 50 gallon half barrels. 10/08
Here is a picture of our cabbages. They are planted in 50 gallon half barrels. 10/08

Endless Possibilities

Maybe planting a salad container garden is an appetizing prospect—Place a cucumber, parsley, chives and a tomato plant into a large pot. Since their basic water requirements are the same, they will thrive well together. Maybe even a vegetable soup container garden with cabbage, garlic, peas, celery and beans. The possibilities and combinations are endless and limited only by your imagination.

Common Container-Grown Vegetables List
Common Container-Grown Vegetables List

Image by katiedL. @Flickr
Image by katiedL. @Flickr

Choose the Right Container

  • The most important thing to consider when choosing containers is color—light colors are the best choice since dark containers attract heat from the sun, which in turn may damage the root system of the plant.
  • Second, make sure the container has enough holes at the bottom for adequate drainage.
  • Finally, take in to consideration how large the vegetable will be when it reaches maturity.


Maintaining Moisture

Plants in containers require more moisture than those planted in the ground and as the plants grow, they'll need even more water. The ideal soil should allow for rapid drainage as well as being sufficient in retaining moisture.

Plant Spacing

Most seed packets indicate spacing requirements. It is best to plant more seeds than needed into the container, rarely do all seeds germinate. Once sprouted, thin out the plants as necessary.

Image by katiedL. @Flickr
Image by katiedL. @Flickr

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Comments

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shawna.wilson profile image

shawna.wilson  says:
13 months ago

Wow, your cabbages look great! I just planted a winter garden this weekend for the first time, and I really hope something edible grows :)

DarleneMarie profile image

DarleneMarie  says:
13 months ago

Keep trying if you do not succeed at first...it is a labor of love and nothing tastes better than fresh produce, straight from your own garden! Home grown cabbages are so tender...I just love them!

JennifersJumpers profile image

JennifersJumpers  says:
9 months ago

Your cabbage does look great! Nothing tastes better than cabbage out of the garden cooked with smoked turkey wings or necks!

DarleneMarie profile image

DarleneMarie  says:
9 months ago

Yes, nothing tastes better than fresh vegetables - and homegrown cabbage oh sooo good! Thanks for stopping by and commenting.

mamacoots profile image

mamacoots  says:
8 months ago

WOW! Those cabbages are gorgeous. I definitely need to start with a few containers. lol The chart you have here will be really helpful. I'll have to save this page.

DarleneMarie profile image

DarleneMarie  says:
8 months ago

Thanks! Cabbage is just about my favorite! Love to eat it shredded on sandwiches! Thanks so much for your compliments and comments!

JPSO138 profile image

JPSO138  says:
8 months ago

I love this hub. It encourages me to start my own vegetable garden. Really wonderful ideas.

DarleneMarie profile image

DarleneMarie  says:
8 months ago

Thank you JPSO138. Learning to garden is not difficult and provides so much pleasure! I espeically love fresh veggies from my own garden. There is so much satisfaction in that!

dianacharles profile image

dianacharles  says:
7 months ago

These look really good and since I live in an apartment, never thought of growing anything but a few herbs. Must try to be a bit more versatile. Thank you for the germinating ideas ;)

DarleneMarie profile image

DarleneMarie  says:
7 months ago

diana - Yes, it is amazing what you can grow in containers. I appreciate your comments and play on words too!

Dink96 profile image

Dink96  says:
7 months ago

I usually grow some yellow pear, cherry tomatoes and fresh basil in containers here in the desert SW, but have not the past few years. I think I'll take it up again. Have missed digging in the dirt lately and this article has piqued my interest. Thank you!

DarleneMarie profile image

DarleneMarie  says:
7 months ago

Thanks for checking out my Hub and commenting Dink. There's nothing like those fresh herbs and vegies!

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