Growing Vegetables and Herbs in Small Pots on Your Balcony or Terrace
Growing vegetables and herbs in containers is nothing new, but have you ever considered growing them in small flower pots on your balcony or terrace? It’s possible—you just need to know what works best!
While large containers can accommodate almost any plant (as long as you have enough soil and compost), smaller flower pots present a unique challenge. The truth is that most vegetables won’t thrive in tiny pots simply because they don’t have enough space to develop a proper root system. And with limited space, you can get only a limited amount of plants, so that the yield won’t be excellent, in most cases, anyway.
But don’t worry—there are always exceptions!
If you dream of a terrace filled with edible plants, go for varieties labeled as “dwarf” or “suited for pots”—especially those with shallow roots.
Best Plants for Small Flower Pots
- Chili peppers
- Citrus trees (dwarf varieties)
- Dwarf tomatoes
- Baby carrots (such as Parisien)
- Microgreens
- Leafy greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
- Scallions, onion, and garlic chives
- Strawberries
- Herbs: basil, thyme, oregano, parsley, cilantro, mint, bay leaf tree, etc.
And don’t forget about edible flowers:
- Chamomile
- Nasturtium
- Primulas
- Borage
- Violets
- Elderberry
- Calendula
Choosing the Right Type of Pot
I always recommend terracotta pots because they look beautiful and have a natural ability to absorb and release water. That’s why you might notice white marks on them over time—it’s just calcium from the water. However, they can be fragile, especially in extreme temperature changes, and they’re heavier and pricier than plastic pots.
If you’re looking for a more practical option, plastic pots are lightweight and durable. When choosing one, go for a high-quality plastic that will last for years. Pick natural colors—avoid black pots as they can overheat in the summer and damage your plants’ roots.
For individual plants (especially larger ones), opt for a round flower pot in the correct size. If you want to grow multiple plants together, a traditional rectangular flower box is the best option.
Planting in Small Flower Pots
- You can start from seeds—just be mindful not to overcrowd your pot, as space is limited.
- If buying seedlings, rinse them thoroughly to remove any pests. Check the root system, gently open it up, and remove any netting before planting.
- Use good-quality potting soil with compost.
- Always choose pots with drainage holes and use a saucer or tray to catch excess water.
Choosing the Best Spot for Your Plants
This is where many people go wrong. Finding the correct location on your balcony or terrace is crucial.
Before choosing your plants, consider these factors:
- Is your balcony south- or west-facing? If so, it will get a lot of sun.
- Is there partial shade from nearby trees?
- Is it windy? Drafts can be tough on plants.
If you have a small balcony, your biggest challenge might be insufficient sunlight—most plants require at least six hours of sunlight per day. On the other hand, a large terrace can mean too much sun, which can scorch your plants, or excessive wind, which they don’t like either.
If you want to grow edible plants indoors, keep in mind that a lack of direct sunlight and too much heat from heaters can be problematic for most varieties.
Caring for Your Potted Plants
Taking care of potted plants requires consistency and attention. It might seem more straightforward to keep herbs nearby, but container gardening is more time-consuming than growing plants in the ground. It’s better to start small and take good care of a few plants than to end up with too many struggling ones.
Watering Tips
- Water according to each plant’s needs and the prevailing weather conditions.
- Don’t overwater or let them dry out completely.
- In hot summer months, you’ll likely need to water daily or every other day.
- Always water in the morning or after sunset—never in direct midday sun.
Fertilizing and Maintaining Soil
- In the first year, your soil won’t need much extra attention.
- Use natural fertilizers to boost growth, but be cautious not to overapply them in a small space.
- Annual plants should be removed at the end of the season—either compost them or/replace them with seasonal flowers.
- Check the remaining soil before reusing it to ensure no pests are hiding in it.
For perennial plants, you may need to repot them into a larger container next season or add more soil to accommodate their growth. If you live in a cold climate, protect your pots during winter by covering each separately with white gardening fabric or moving them into a greenhouse.
Every year, I come across some scarab beetle larvae in my flower pots, primarily in those with ornamental plants. These little critters can be harmful to potted plants because they hide in the soil, feeding on debris and the roots of nearby plants. If you notice a plant struggling for no apparent reason, these larvae might be the cause! While they aren’t as destructive—where they have plenty of space to move around—in a confined pot, they can end up devouring an entire plant. Whenever I find them, I gently remove them and relocate them to a natural area far from my terrace.
To keep your potted plants healthy, ensure that you leave some space between the pots. This prevents unwanted shade and excess humidity, which can lead to the proliferation of other pests, fungal diseases, or mold.
If you’re thinking about growing vegetables, herbs, or edible flowers in small pots, go for it! It’s a fantastic way to bring fresh greenery (and ingredients) into your home. With the proper plant selection, pots, and care, you can create a thriving mini garden—even in a small space. Start small, experiment to see what works best in your environment, and, most importantly, enjoy the process!