Container Gardening for Beginners: The Complete Guide

What is Container Gardening?

Let’s start with the basics.

Container gardening involves growing plants, especially vegetables, herbs, and fruits, in containers rather than directly in the ground. It’s an ideal method for people with limited outdoor space, poor soil, or a desire to grow food closer to home.

Whether you're working with a patio, balcony, porch, or sunny corner of your yard, container gardening makes it easy to grow your own produce without needing a whole garden plot.

Containers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including plastic, terracotta, metal, and wood. By pairing the correct container with the right soil and plant choice, you can grow a surprisingly large amount of food in a remarkably small footprint.

It’s also an excellent option for anyone whose native soil doesn’t support the plants they want to grow. Containers allow you to control your growing conditions while staying in sync with your local climate.

Tip: Use this zone chart map to find what grows best in your region.

Quick Recap: What to Remember

Container gardening doesn’t require a green thumb — just the proper setup. Here’s what to remember:

• Choose the correct container: Bigger is usually better. Make sure it has adequate drainage.
• Pick the right plants: Start with tomatoes, herbs, greens, or compact vegetables. Grow what you like to eat.
• Use quality potting mix: Avoid garden soil. Use a lightweight, nutrient-rich mix designed for containers.
• Water smart: Water deeply, check daily, and use a self-watering container if possible.
• Feed your plants: Use a slow-release fertilizer and dolomite lime at planting.
• Match your light: Most veggies need 6–8 hours of sun. Use a sun calculator or these growing guides if you're unsure.
• Start small, learn fast: Whether with seeds or seedlings, a few containers are all you need to gain confidence.

7 Benefits of Container Gardening

Container gardening brings fresh food to your doorstep. With the proper containers, you can grow a variety of vegetables, herbs, and even fruits. Then you can harvest and eat it right from your own home.

Here are seven reasons to try container gardening:

1. Flexibility
   Move your plants to follow the sun, avoid extreme weather conditions, or create a better microclimate for them—no digging required. You can grow year-round.
2. Space-Friendly
   Perfect for balconies, patios, and small yards. Even a sunny windowsill can become a mini herb garden.
3. Soil Control
   Poor native soil? No problem. Containers let you tailor the soil to precisely what your plants need.
4. Lower Maintenance
   A smaller scale makes watering, feeding, and pruning easier. You can focus on plant health instead of battling weeds or prepping garden beds.
5. Pest Management
   Containers make it easier to monitor and isolate plants, reducing the risk of widespread pest or disease problems.
6. Accessibility
   Great for gardeners of all ages and physical abilities. Use elevated planters to avoid bending or kneeling.
7. Grow What You Love
   Create a salad garden with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Create a pizza-themed planter featuring basil, oregano, and sweet peppers. Containers give you endless combinations.

The Best Plants for Gardening Containers

Grow What You Eat

The best plants for container gardening are the ones you enjoy eating or cooking with. Herbs, vegetables, and even fruits can thrive in containers, provided you match them to your growing conditions, including sun exposure, climate, and the amount of care you can give.

Here’s what grows best in containers for fresh, homegrown produce:

Herbs

Herbs are ideal for container gardens. They don’t need much space, and you can harvest them as needed. Great choices include:

• Basil
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Parsley

Plant them individually in small pots or mix several in one box.

Learn more about how to grow herbs in containers.

Vegetables

Many vegetables thrive in containers, especially when using a system designed for yield and drainage. Top performers include:

• Tomatoes
• Peppers (sweet and hot)
• Cucumbers
• Summer Squash
• Lettuce
• Spinach
• Kale
• Radishes
• Beans
• Carrots (choose shorter varieties)

Get 10 tips for growing tomatoes in containers.

Fruits

You can grow certain fruits in containers, too, especially smaller or dwarf varieties. Consider:

• Strawberries
• Blueberries (acidic soil required)
• Blackberries
• Container-friendly melons (in large boxes with support)

Learn more about how to grow strawberries and blueberries in containers.

Decorative Plants

Although container gardening is typically focused on produce, you can still incorporate flowers like marigolds or nasturtiums. They’re edible, attract pollinators, and look great. But if your goal is food, make them secondary.

Tip: When in doubt, grow what you like to eat and what grows well in your zone. Focus on plants that will yield multiple harvests or provide steady production throughout the season.

Learn 10 tips for container gardening success.

How to Select a Gardening Container

With numerous gardening containers available on the market, you may wonder how to select a suitable one for your garden. First, you’ll need to consider these seven factors for choosing a suitable gardening container:

What is the Best Size for a Garden Container?

Size matters. The container must be deep and wide enough to support the plant’s root system and hold enough soil to retain moisture between waterings.

Always choose a container that’s slightly larger than you think you need, especially for fast-growing or deep-rooted plants. Larger containers also dry out more slowly, which means less frequent watering.

Container Size vs. Crop Type

According to the Farmer’s Almanac, most vegetables need at least 12 inches of soil depth to grow well. Here's a quick guide:

1. Small containers (under 2 gallons): Best for herbs like basil, parsley, or chives.
2. Medium containers (2–3 gallons): Suitable for leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, or arugula.
3. Large containers (5+ gallons): Needed for fruiting plants like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and squash.

Tip: A 5-gallon container is the minimum for a tomato or squash plant to thrive.

Learn more about how deep your planter box should be.

What is the Best Material for a Garden Container?

Garden containers are available in a variety of materials, each with its own pros and cons, depending on your space, climate, and the type of plants you're growing.

Here are some insights to help you choose:

Plastic Planters

Pros: Lightweight, affordable, durable, and retains moisture well. Ideal for beginners and hot climates.
Cons: Not always the most attractive option. Cheap plastic can degrade in full sun over time. Look for a durable plastic material.

Clay / Terracotta Pots

Pros: Naturally beautiful and breathable, this material is ideal for plants that prefer drier soil, such as herbs.
Cons: Heavy, fragile, and prone to drying out quickly. They’re not ideal for vegetables that require consistent moisture.

Metal Planters

Pros: Sleek, modern, and durable.
Cons: Heats up fast in the sun, which can damage plant roots. They may also rust over time. Plants may need more frequent watering.

Wood Planters

Pros: Classic look, excellent insulation for roots, and often deep enough for larger plants, such as tomatoes or peppers.
Cons: Can rot if not sealed or treated; heavier and may need a liner or replacement after a few seasons.

Tip: If you're growing produce, prioritize function over appearance.

How Important Is Drainage in a Garden Container?

Drainage is non-negotiable. Without it, plant roots can become waterlogged, leading to root rot, the #1 killer of container-grown vegetables. Make sure your container has drainage holes and avoid anything that traps water at the bottom (unless it’s a sub-irrigated, self-watering system like EarthBox planter boxes, which have a built-in reservoir and overflow).

Should I Worry About the Container's Style?

Only after you've met the plant’s needs. If you're growing produce, function takes priority over fashion. That said, edible gardens can still be visually appealing.

For example, mix leafy greens with compact herbs for visual texture. If aesthetics matter to you, ensure the container also meets your size and drainage needs first.

Does Portability Matter?

It can be handy if you're gardening in a small space, dealing with seasonal shifts in sunlight, or moving containers indoors during extreme weather conditions. Look for lightweight materials or containers with built-in wheels for easy transportation. Otherwise, it will be very difficult to move a fully planted container as it can weigh over 80 pounds.

How Much Should I Spend on a Garden Container?

If you're just getting started, you don't need to invest big. You can grow a great container garden with basic, affordable materials.

However, if you're committed to long-term growth, it pays to invest in higher-quality containers that won’t crack, rot, or degrade over time. Durability saves money in the long run. Dedicated container gardening systems are also engineered to produce bigger yields, providing a better return on your investment.

How Durable Should a Container Be?

For outdoor or year-round use, prioritize durability.

• Plastic, metal, and fiberglass last longer with less maintenance.
• Wood looks great and insulates well, but can rot if untreated.
• Terracotta can crack in freezing temps.

Select materials based on your local climate, budget, and desired lifespan of the container.

Remember, plants grow fast. A tiny seedling today might become a full-size tomato vine in a month. When in doubt, choose a container that's bigger than you think you need. You’ll thank yourself later.

Best Gardening Containers for Growing Produce

There are many container styles to choose from, but if your goal is growing produce, some work better than others.

Here are the most practical types of gardening containers for vegetables, herbs, and fruits:

Planter Boxes

Large, rectangular boxes are ideal for growing multiple plants in one space. They are great for salad gardens, tomato setups, and companion planting.

• Best for: Tomatoes, greens, herbs, peppers
• Pro tip: Choose a self-watering version like the EarthBox® for fewer watering worries and better yields.

Grow Bags

These fabric containers are breathable, foldable, and surprisingly effective. They promote healthy roots and are ideal for crops such as potatoes or carrots.

• Best for: Root crops, bush beans, compact peppers
• Pros: Lightweight, reusable, easy to store in the off-season

Self-Watering Containers (Sub-Irrigated Planters)

These have a built-in reservoir that provides water to the plant from below, making them perfect for beginners or those in hot climates.

• Best for: Any thirsty crop such as tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants
• Why it works: Delivers consistent moisture, reduces stress on plants

Pots and Planters

Suitable for single plants or small groupings. Be sure they’re deep enough and have drainage holes.

• Best for: Herbs, small greens, single pepper or tomato plants
• Watch out for: Shallow pots that dry out too fast

Elevated Planter Boxes

Raised containers that reduce bending and can fit in tight patios or decks.

• Best for: Seniors, accessible gardening, small edible gardens
• Bonus: Easy to move or reposition with seasons

Tip: Prioritize containers that hold at least 5 gallons, have drainage holes, and are easily accessible for watering and harvesting. If in doubt, opt for a self-watering system as it eliminates the guesswork.

How to Plant in a Garden Container

Once you've chosen your plants and container, it’s time to plant.

Should You Start with Seeds or Seedlings?

This is one of the first decisions new gardeners face.

• Seedlings are easier and more forgiving for beginners. They’re also faster, giving you a head start on the season.
• Seeds are more affordable and offer a wider variety, but they require careful watering, consistent warmth, and patience.

Tip: Regardless of which option you choose, always harden off young plants before moving them outdoors full-time. Gradually expose them to sunlight, wind, and outdoor temperatures over 7–10 days to avoid transplant shock.

How to Plant Your Container Garden

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Prep Your Container
   Ensure it has proper drainage holes. If not, drill them to prevent root rot.
2. Fill with Potting Mix
   Use high-quality potting mix designed for containers (never garden soil). Fill your container about two-thirds full.
3. Add Your Plants
   Remove the seedlings from their nursery pots, gently loosen the roots, and replant them at the same depth they were growing previously.
4. Don’t Overcrowd
   Follow spacing guidelines. Overplanting stunts growth and limits airflow.
   Use a placement chart if you're using a system like EarthBox®.
5. Top Off with Soil
   Once your plants are in place, fill in around them with more potting mix. Press gently to eliminate air pockets.
6. Water Thoroughly
   Give your plants a deep soak to help them settle in and establish a strong root system.

Where Should You Place Your Container Garden?

Your container garden's success depends on the environment you provide. Most vegetables require at least 6 to 8 hours of full sun, making sunlight tracking a crucial first step.

“Sunlight isn’t optional,” notes Mark Bolt (VP of EarthBox). “It’s essential. Six hours is the bare minimum for most crops to perform.”

Sunlight Requirements by Plant Type

Light Requirements

• Fruiting crops such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers: 8+ hours
• Leafy greens, including lettuce, spinach, arugula: 4–6 hours
• Root vegetables like radishes and carrots: 6+ hours

Tip: Use a sun calculator app or observe your space every 30 minutes to track actual exposure.

Temperature and Microclimate

Containers heat up faster than garden beds. In hot climates:

• Move containers to partial shade during intense afternoon sun
• Avoid dark-colored or metal containers that can overheat roots
• Be cautious of reflected heat from walls, decks, or pavement

In cooler areas, place containers where they get maximum warmth and protection from wind.

Why is Drainage Important in Container Gardening?

Drainage is one of the most critical (and overlooked) factors in container gardening. Without it, your plants’ roots can drown, rot, or suffocate — even if the top layer of soil looks perfectly fine.

Proper drainage does three things:

1. Prevents waterlogging
   It allows excess water to escape, so roots aren’t sitting in soggy soil.
2. Keeps oxygen flowing
   Saturated soil cuts off air pockets, which starve roots of oxygen and lead to root rot, especially at the bottom of the container.
3. Flushes out salt buildup
   Tap water and fertilizers leave behind salts. Without drainage, those salts accumulate and damage your plants over time.

Tip: Always elevate your containers off hard surfaces using pot feet, bricks, or a plant stand. This keeps the drainage hole clear and functioning correctly.

What's the Best Soil for Container Gardening?

Soil is one of the most critical ingredients in your container garden. It's where your plants get their water, nutrients, and root support. And in containers, you only get one shot to get it right.

Check out this video for tips on selecting the right growing media.

Avoid garden soil. It compacts, drains poorly, and lacks the structure container plants need.

“Your potting mix isn’t just dirt,” says Bolt. “It’s your plant’s entire environment in one box. If you skimp here, your plants will show it.”

Always use a high-quality potting mix designed for container gardening. It’s specifically formulated to be lightweight, well-draining, and rich in organic matter.

A good potting mix should include:

• Peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention and aeration
• Perlite or vermiculite for improved drainage
• Compost or organic matter to feed your plants

Tip: Many premium potting mixes include a starter fertilizer, but you’ll still need to supplement it as the season progresses.

Read more about the best soil for container gardening.

How Often Should You Water Container Plants?

Watering is the make-or-break factor in container gardening. Because containers dry out more quickly than in-ground gardens, especially in warm or windy conditions, consistent watering is crucial for maintaining healthy, productive plants.

“If there’s one thing that trips up new container gardeners, it’s watering,” notes Bolt. “Too much or too little can take your plants out fast.”

Here’s how to water containers correctly:

• Check soil moisture daily.
  Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, check again later. A moisture meter is an excellent tool for beginners.
• Water early in the day.
  Morning watering helps plants stay hydrated during peak heat and gives leaves time to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of disease.
• Water deeply.
  You want water to reach the entire root zone. Continue watering until water starts to come out of the container’s drainage holes.
• Avoid shallow watering.
  Frequent, light watering encourages weak, shallow roots. Instead, water less often but more thoroughly to build more vigorous plants.
• In hot weather, increase frequency.
  During heatwaves or midsummer conditions, some plants may require water once or even twice a day — especially in small or porous containers.

Tip: Consider using a self-watering container, such as an EarthBox. It maintains ideal soil moisture and significantly reduces the risk of over- or underwatering.

How to Fertilize Container Plants

In container gardening, nutrients are a finite resource. Unlike in-ground gardens, there’s no natural ecosystem replenishing what plants use up. Since containers drain freely, some nutrients are flushed out with each watering.

That’s why container plants need consistent, intentional feeding.

Start With a Balanced, Slow-Release Fertilizer

At planting time, mix in a slow-release granular fertilizer labeled for vegetables. This gives plants a steady supply of nutrients over several weeks.

• Look for a balanced NPK ratio (like 7-7-7 or 14-14-14) unless you're targeting a specific need like higher phosphorus for fruiting.
• Mix it into the top few inches of soil or layer it according to product instructions.
• Many high-quality potting mixes already include a starter dose. Check the label.

Supplement With Liquid Fertilizer as Plants Grow

As plants mature and begin to flower or fruit, they may require more nutrients than slow-release fertilizers can supply alone. This is where liquid fertilizer steps in.

• Apply a water-soluble fertilizer like fish emulsion, liquid seaweed, or synthetic blends every 2–3 weeks.
• Always dilute according to the label. More isn’t better.
• Water plants first before applying liquid fertilizer to avoid root burn.

Common Fertilizing Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfeeding: Can burn plants or cause excess leaf growth at the expense of fruit.
• Underfeeding: Leads to slow growth, yellowing leaves, and poor harvests.
• Feeding dry soil: Always water before applying liquid fertilizer.

Start Container Gardening on the Right Foot

If you’re a beginner looking to join the crowd of container gardeners, check out EarthBox®, a leader in container gardening products since 1994. Our planter boxes and accessories are top-rated and a favorite among container gardeners.

We even offer the #1 planter box kit, with everything you need to start container gardening:

• Self-watering planter box with wheels
• Pre-measured fertilizer
• Pre-measured dolomite lime

All you have to do is add potting mix and select plants you want to grow: peppers, tomatoes, herbs, blueberries, you name it.

Need help getting started? Watch this video to see how easy it is to garden with containers.

EarthBox is your wise choice for container gardening success.