10 Best Vegetables to Grow in Small Spaces

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As more people become interested in gardening, space constraints can be a limiting factor. However, with proper knowledge and planning, growing vegetables in small spaces like balconies is possible.

Here are 10 of the best vegetables to grow in small spaces.

Lettuce

Lettuce is a very versatile green. It is easy to grow and can be grown in tight spots. Its shallow roots make it perfect for container gardening or growing on balconies or window sills. You can choose from different types like loose-leaf, Romaine, or butterhead.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a kitchen staple and well suited for the small space garden. Grow them in hanging baskets or containers with a trellis. Virtually any balcony garden will count cherry tomatoes among its top picks, as they are high-yielding and compact.

Spinach

Spinach is another fast-growing vegetable that can be easily grown in containers or vertical gardens. It is a nutrient-dense leafy green packed with vitamins and minerals. Spinach grows best in partial shade, perfect for balconies or small areas with limited sunlight.

Peppers

Peppers come in various colors, shapes, and spicy flavor scales, making them a popular choice for home gardeners. They are suitable for planting in a pot on the balcony or windowsill, provided they receive sunlight for at least 6 hours per day.

Radishes

According to the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, IFAS, radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables and can be ready to harvest in just 3-4 weeks from sowing. Their shallow roots make them ideal for container gardening. You can also find radishes in multiple colors and types, which adds visual appeal to your small-space garden.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are climbing vines that grow up trellises or cages. Their shallow roots make them good in pots. Cucumbers do better in hot weather and need light and water to multiply their yield.

Green Onions

Green onions are among the easiest and most practical plants you can look after, even in a small space. They are suitable for small containers or a good jar recycling initiative on your windowsill. These green parts are continuously harvestable, providing an effortless and steady stream of fresh onions for your cooking.

Carrots

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Carrots are another vegetable that can be grown in pots or containers with properly draining soil. They also tend to flourish in vertical gardens, making them a good option for those with little room to spare. Baby carrots are in vogue as they grow faster and take up less room.

Beans

Green beans and snap peas are both excellent for growing in small spaces. They can be allowed to climb on trellises or trails in hanging pots. They give generous harvests and are simple to grow, making them appropriate for starters.

Herbs

An article by The Louisiana State University Agricultural Center reports that herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley are perfect for small-space gardening because they grow great in tiny pots or recycled containers. These herbs are added to food items to add aromatic flavors and have medicinal properties. If you place the herb garden on your balcony or windowsill, you can also benefit from its scent for your living room.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.