10 Container Gardening Myths Busted

EarthBox container gardening systems

When I first dipped my toes into container gardening, I felt like I was cheating. I didn’t have a “real” garden — just a few planter boxes and plastic pots on a sunny balcony. I figured I’d be lucky if I got a few herbs and maybe some sad tomatoes.

Fast forward a couple of seasons, and I’m harvesting salad greens weekly. My peppers are thriving, and my cherry tomatoes cover the plant.

If you’ve ever thought container gardening isn’t worth the effort — or doesn’t work — I’m here to bust some myths. Let’s delve into the most common misconceptions and why they don’t hold water (pun intended).

Myth #1: You won’t get much yield from containers.

Truth: You can grow a ton of food in garden containers — no backyard required.

Tomatoes, peppers, leafy greens, herbs, beans, even eggplants — all thrive in container gardens. They only need enough space and the right conditions. The key is using the right-sized container, good-quality potting mix, and frequent watering (more on that later).

If you're wondering how to select the best planter boxes, read this blog.

You can get an impressive harvest right from your patio or windowsill. Herbs, for example, are a perfect addition to container gardens.

Myth #2: Container gardening is only for people with no yard.

Truth: Even gardeners with in-ground gardens use containers!

Make no mistake, container gardening is a godsend for those with limited garden space. They still have the option of growing produce even on a small patio space.

But planter boxes, terra cotta pots, and even fabric grow bags are great for:

  • Extending your growing season
  • Testing out new varieties without disturbing your garden soil
  • Creating mobile microclimates — move your containers to follow the full sun

Garden containers are incredibly versatile, no matter your garden setup.

Myth #3: Container gardening is too much work.

Truth: With a few clever tweaks, container gardens can be incredibly low-maintenance.

Yes, container-grown plants often require more frequent waterings, but you can make it easy:

  • Use a high-quality potting mix designed to hold moisture.
  • Add mulch on top of your potted plants to reduce evaporation.
  • Try self-watering garden containers or set up a drip irrigation system for effortless watering of your plants. EarthBox, for example, has self-watering planter boxes that remove the guesswork on when to water.
  • Water in the early morning to beat the heat

Myth #4: You can’t grow big or root veggies in containers.

Truth: Oh yes, you can — with the proper depth and setup.

Root crops, such as carrots, beets, radishes, and even potatoes, can thrive in deeper garden containers. Just ensure they’re deep enough to allow for proper root growth.

Pro Tip: Use grow bags or 5+ gallon plastic pots with suitable drainage holes. Always ensure that your containers have holes in the bottom to prevent waterlogging and excess water buildup.

Myth #5: You need fancy pots or matching planters.

Truth: If it holds soil and drains, it can work.

Sure, terra cotta pots look pretty, but don’t rule out upcycled containers, food-safe buckets, or even tote bins. The key is to ensure they have holes in the bottom — you want excess water to escape, avoiding soggy roots.

Don’t let aesthetics stop you from growing something amazing.

Myth #6: Container soil is too expensive.

Truth: It can be, but there are budget-friendly ways to fill your pots.

Instead of using expensive potting soil alone:

  • Reuse last year’s soil with compost and slow-release fertilizer
  • Mix your own using compost, garden soil, and perlite
  • Layer the bottom of large containers with sticks or leaves to save on potting mix volume

Pro Tip: You can reuse the potting mix at least 8-10 growing seasons with the EarthBox container gardening system. Discover the best soil for garden containers.

Myth #7: Container gardening isn’t ‘real’ gardening.

Truth: If you’re growing food or flowers and nurturing plants, you’re a gardener.

Don’t let anyone gatekeep your green thumb. Whether your plants are in raised beds, window boxes, or plastic pots on a fire escape, you’re growing something. That absolutely counts.

Myth #8: You can’t grow anything without full sun.

Truth: Many herbs and leafy greens thrive with partial sun.

Sure, tomatoes and peppers love full sun, but lettuce, spinach, parsley, and chives will thrive with 4 to 6 hours of light. Use container mobility to your advantage — move your potted plants around as needed.

Myth #9: All you need is garden soil in a pot.

Truth: Don’t ever do this to your plants.

Garden soil from the ground is too dense for containers — it won’t drain properly and can cause root rot. Always use potting mix or potting soil designed for container gardens. A mix is lighter and better at holding moisture while still allowing air flow for root growth.

Myth #10: Watering once a week is sufficient.

Truth: In hot weather, garden containers may need daily watering.

Because containers are above ground and often in sunny spots, they require more frequent watering, especially smaller ones. Check soil moisture daily by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil. Dry? Time to water.

Final Thoughts on Container Gardening Myths

Container gardening is real, it’s productive, and it’s a total game-changer. That's especially true if you’re short on space, new to gardening, or want more control over your growing environment.

Start with a few herbs or one cherry tomato plant. You’ll be amazed at how much you can grow in just a few planter boxes or terra cotta pots.

To ensure your success, consider EarthBox planting boxes. They're a proven solution for container gardening success. In addition, they make things easy with their ready-to-use planter box kit. You get everything you need to start your container garden -- add soil and your plants.

Have a myth you've heard (or believed yourself)? Drop it in the comments below — and share this with a friend who's ready to grow their first potted plant this season.

 

Container Gardening Questions Answered

Here are some common questions about container gardening to help you avoid mistakes. They might even debunk some other myths. Think of this as your quick-reference guide — from drainage holes to potting soil, we’ve got you covered.

Q: Do I need drainage holes in all my containers?

A: Yes, absolutely. Containers must have drainage holes to let excess water escape. Without proper drainage, roots can become waterlogged and rot. If your container doesn’t come with holes, drill or poke some in the bottom before planting.

Q: Can I use garden soil in my planter boxes or pots?

A: Not recommended. Garden soil is often too dense and can compact in garden containers, resulting in poor drainage and stunted root growth. Use a lightweight potting mix or potting soil designed for potted plants — it will retain moisture without suffocating roots.

Q: How often do I need to water container plants?

A: It depends on the weather, the size of your gardening container, and the type of plant you're growing. Generally, containers require more frequent waterings, especially in hot weather. Check soil daily — if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water. Smaller pots tend to dry out faster than larger ones.

Q: What are the best vegetables for container gardening?

A: Many vegetables do great in containers! Start with:

  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Lettuce and spinach
  • Peppers
  • Radishes
  • Herbs (basil, thyme, parsley)

Use garden containers that are at least 12 inches deep, and select compact or container-friendly plant varieties whenever possible.

Q: Do plastic pots work, or do I need terra cotta?

A: Both work! Plastic pots retain moisture more effectively and are lighter, making them ideal for use in hot or dry climates.

Terra cotta pots are breathable and help prevent overwatering, but dry out faster. That can be good or bad depending on your watering habits. Choose what works best for your growing season and climate.

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