If you’re eager to savor the sweetness of freshly harvested fruits but lack the space to dig or don’t want to strain your back, container gardening is an ideal solution. This approach is perfect for cultivating a small plot or even indoors. However, not all fruits can thrive in containers – it’s essential to know which ones are suitable and which aren’t.
If you’re considering starting a container garden and growing fruits within its confines, then this post is designed specifically with you in mind. Over the next few paragraphs, I’ll be sharing 13 fruits that excel in container cultivation, allowing you to enjoy your harvest on your deck or inside your home.
13 Fruits to Grow in Containers
Strawberries
Strawberries prove to be an ideal choice for container gardening, thanks to their perennial nature, which means you only need to plant them once. As the seasons change, simply bring your strawberry plants indoors during the colder months to shield the roots from frost. This flexibility is especially appealing to container gardeners, as it allows for a more controlled environment and prevents overproduction at one time.
Everbearing strawberries, in particular, offer a unique advantage with two harvests per year – one in June and another in late summer. For optimal results, choose a container that’s at least 18 inches wide to accommodate around 10-12 plants. Additionally, strawberries require excellent drainage and direct sunlight for approximately 8 hours a day. With proper care, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time.
Blueberries
To successfully cultivate blueberries in a container, one crucial aspect is the number of plants required – at least two are necessary for a bountiful harvest. These berries will flourish from June to August. For optimal growth, you’ll need a large container with a diameter of 22 inches and a depth of 18 inches, as well as acidic peat-based soil that provides the perfect environment.
With these conditions met, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying an abundance of blueberries, ripe for the picking – literally!
Figs
While growing figs in containers might seem like an unconventional idea at first, it’s actually a fantastic option. To start, you’ll need a large enough pot – about 16 inches across – but the soil requirements are surprisingly lenient. As long as it drains well, you’re good to go! However, even with their reputation for being non-fussy and drought-tolerant, figs still crave full sun exposure.
Additionally, during the peak summer months when container gardening accelerates water evaporation, daily watering is essential to keep your fig plants thriving.
Tomatoes
While it may come as a surprise, tomatoes are indeed classified as a fruit. This fact becomes particularly relevant when considering their cultivation in containers. As the plants mature and their fruit begins to ripen, they’ll require some form of support to prevent them from becoming too heavy for their stems. A large enough container, however, can provide ample space for tomatoes to thrive. For further insights on growing tomatoes, I recommend exploring the provided links.
Additionally, those seeking inspiration for supporting their tomato plants may find the articles linked below informative: growing tomatoes and tomato trellis/cage ideas.
Pineapple
As I explored the possibility of growing fruit in containers, my enthusiasm was piqued by the prospect of cultivating pineapples. The ease with which this can be done is what truly excites me. By simply cutting off the crown of a pineapple and soaking it in water for 24 to 48 hours, one can initiate the process of growing their own fruit. Once prepared, plant the crown in a gallon-sized container and place it in a sunny spot.
With minimal time and care, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor – literally.
Cantaloupe
I’m excited to share this method for container gardening that I think will yield great results. As an annual gardener, there’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly picked cantaloupe. To replicate the same experience in a pot, you’ll need a spacious container that can accommodate the sprawling vines of the melon plant.
Treat it similarly to how you would if you were growing it directly in the ground – just be sure to provide a sturdy trellis or stake for the fruit to ripen and the vines to climb.
Bananas
You can cultivate dwarf banana plants, which are perennials that only require annual planting and pruning if brought indoors during winter to shield them from frost. To grow these miniature banana trees successfully, you’ll need a large container with proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil. This unique feature allows you to enjoy the benefits of growing bananas without being confined to tropical regions.
The best part is that they are fruits that can be grown in containers, allowing for flexibility and convenience as you move them to locations that suit your needs.
Watermelon
I was pleasantly surprised when I discovered the possibility of growing watermelons in containers. The idea of keeping the vines neatly contained is particularly appealing to me, as it prevents them from spreading throughout my garden. While it’s possible to grow watermelons in any size container, I believe self-watering pots are essential due to their high water requirements.
If you’re considering this method, you can place your containers indoors or outdoors, provided they receive at least one hour of direct sunlight daily. Alternatively, artificial lighting or a sunny windowsill can also meet the plant’s needs.
Currants
As I venture into the world of homesteading, I’m surprised to find myself among the uninitiated when it comes to enjoying a simple pleasure: eating currants. Despite having a treasured recipe for currant jam, I’ve yet to take a bite of these tiny fruits. However, my curiosity is piqued and I’m eager to change that once I get my hands on some currant plants. The prospect of growing them in containers has me excitedly planning for next year’s garden.
With minimal maintenance required – just a large pot, ample water, and compost-rich soil – these versatile bushes are easy to cultivate. Plus, they can be trained to climb up a trellis, making them an attractive addition to any yard. I’m looking forward to exploring the world of currants and discovering what all the fuss is about.
Gooseberries
Gooseberries are another plant option I initially overlooked but am now reconsidering for next year’s garden. The discovery that they can thrive in containers has alleviated my concerns about space constraints, opening up new growth opportunities. If you’re unfamiliar with gooseberries, know that they share similar care requirements with currants. To grow them successfully, you’ll need a substantial pot and can use the same soil and fertilization techniques as those used for currants.
While currants are renowned for their jam-making potential, gooseberries have earned a reputation for producing exceptional pies. For more information on cultivating gooseberries, click here.
Fruit Trees
As I delved deeper into the world of indoor fruit tree cultivation, my curiosity was piqued by the prospect of growing Meyer lemon trees, just as I had years prior. The excitement stems from the fact that virtually any dwarf variety of fruit tree can thrive in a container. This versatility allows for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments, with only a seasonal change in location required.
A wide range of options becomes available, including cherries, peaches, apples, pears, Meyer lemons, limes, and oranges. While I’ve successfully planted my cherry, peach, apple, and pear trees outdoors, I’ve also had success growing limes, lemons, and orange trees indoors, albeit with a few feline-related casualties along the way. Despite this, I’ve developed a knack for cultivating fruit trees in containers, and I’m eager to share more about this experience.
Mulberries
I’m eager to give mulberry cultivation another try next year, now that I’ve discovered they can thrive in pots on my back patio. This means I no longer have any excuses for not giving them a go! As for the specific requirements for growing mulberries, it’s generally recommended to opt for dwarf varieties and plant them in large containers. While this method offers many benefits, there is one important consideration to keep in mind: ripe fruit can leave unsightly stains on your patio or porch.
If you’re planning to grow mulberries in a container, be sure to factor this into your decision-making process. To learn more about the ins and outs of growing mulberries in pots, check out our dedicated guide.
Passion Fruit
Passion fruit is often overlooked due to its perceived requirements. However, with container gardening, the possibilities are endless. No matter where you live, there’s a high likelihood that you can successfully grow passion fruit in a pot. This perennial vine requires minimal maintenance, as it only needs to be planted once. The unique aspect of growing passion fruit is the need for a sturdy trellis to support its heavy harvest.
Unlike other fruits, passion fruit doesn’t require frequent replanting, making it a low-maintenance option for any gardener. With these benefits in mind, let’s dive into some quick tips on cultivating fruits in containers.
Fruits to Grow in Containers Gardening Tips
When it comes to growing plants in containers, it’s easy to assume that they’re self-sufficient and don’t require the same level of attention as their soil-based counterparts. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Most container-grown plants still need plenty of sunlight, with some requiring more than others. But there’s another crucial factor at play: drainage.
Without proper drainage, waterlogged soil can quickly become a recipe for disaster, causing root rot and killing your plants. It’s no surprise then that this is often cited as the number one reason why people struggle to grow plants in containers. Of course, container-grown plants also lack access to nutrients found in well-draining soil. To combat this, it’s essential to feed your plants regularly with fertilizer, especially if you’re growing fruiting varieties.
Overcrowding can also be a major issue, so make sure to give each plant enough space to thrive. When selecting potting soil, remember that more is often better. A good quality potting mix will retain moisture but still drain excess water, preventing root rot. And when it comes to planting multiple species together, some plants are natural neighbors while others can be deadly competitors. Take the time to research which plants make the best and worst neighbors for your desired plant.
Not every plant will thrive in a container, and sometimes they’ll even die off due to disease or nutrient deficiencies. If you notice one of your pots showing signs of distress, quarantine it immediately to prevent the problem from spreading. Finally, be sure to research each plant’s optimal size and growth habits, as well as its specific watering needs.
Some plants are naturally more finicky than others when it comes to moisture levels, so don’t assume that a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach will work.