Containers are not just for smaller gardens, they can be an attractive addition to larger gardens, especially if you position them close to your kitchen door where you can grab a quick handful of the freshest veg possible. From carrots and salads to peppers, potatoes, herbs and beans there isn't much that won't grow well in a container.
Container choice
You can use almost anything you like as a container for growing vegetables. Garden centres and DIY stores have a huge range of containers in all shapes and sizes.
Materials
Clay and terracotta: Looks very attractive, but tends to dry out more quickly than plastic. Clay and terracotta pots are also prone to cracking caused by frost. Look out for frost-proof pots, or stand pots on 'feet' over winter to prevent them becoming waterlogged, therefore reducing the risk of frost damage.
Plastic: Pots are lighter than clay and don't dry out as much as clay or terracotta. There is now a wide range of plastic pots available, some even look like terracotta pots.
Metal: This is a very popular material, with a modern look. They are frost-proof and won't dry out like clay. The problem is they heat up quickly in summer, and likewise, are very cold in winter. The other potential problem is rust.
Wood: Half barrels are popular for growing fruit trees in. Wood has a problem in that it does rot. You can extend the lifespan of a wooden container by lining it with plastic sheeting with holes in the bottom.
Other: Empty compost bags are good for growing potatoes in. Other household items, like old pots, baths, jars and tins also make quirky containers.
Drainage
No matter what type of container you use, make sure there is adequate drainage. Most shop-bought containers will come pre-drilled, but if not, you will need to drill holes in the bottom.
Size
If you’re planting a single specimen, choose a container that is just large enough to hold the roots without them being crushed.
Salads and herbs thrive in relatively shallow containers. A depth of as little as 15cm (6in) can give good results.
More demanding plants such as legumes, onion family and of course, root vegetables do better if you can provide a soil depth of 30-45cm (12-18in) or more, and will avoid you having to water and feed so frequently.
Growing media/compost
Most crops will grow perfectly well in a multi-purpose compost, either peat based or peat free. Soil-based composts, such as John Innes No 3, are easier to maintain and water but heavier and relatively expensive. Mixing composted manure into the compost in the lower half of the container is a very effective organic fertiliser or add a controlled-release fertiliser, such as Osmocote, before planting.
More about fertilisers