Container Sizes

Which container size for which plant - a visual guide

Illustrated guide to container garden sizing and plant placement

The general rule: bigger is almost always better with containers. Tomatoes and peppers need at least 5 gallons - I prefer 7 to 10 gallon fabric pots. Herbs are happy in 1 to 3 gallon containers. Lettuce and greens do well in wide, shallow containers (at least 6 inches deep). Carrots and root vegetables need at least 12 inches of depth. Strawberries love hanging baskets or stackable planters. If you're growing on a balcony, remember that a full 10-gallon pot is heavy - make sure your space can handle the weight and consider fabric grow bags, which are lighter than ceramic or terracotta.

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