Growing vegetables on a city terrace in pots can be a rewarding and relatively simple way to enjoy fresh produce. Here are some vegetables that are generally easy to grow in containers:
Tomatoes: Compact or bush varieties work well in pots. Choose determinate varieties for a more controlled growth.
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Herbs: Basil, mint, parsley, chives, and oregano are excellent choices. They don't require much space and can thrive in small containers.
Lettuce and Salad Greens: Loose-leaf lettuce, spinach, and arugula are quick-growing and can be harvested multiple times.
Radishes: Radishes have a short growing season and can be grown in shallow containers. They are quick to mature and add a crisp texture to salads.
Bell Peppers: Compact varieties of bell peppers are well-suited for container gardening. They require a sunny spot and well-draining soil.
Cucumbers: Choose compact or bush cucumber varieties, and provide them with a trellis for support. Regular watering is essential for cucumber plants.
Green Onions: These are low-maintenance and can be grown in small pots. They regrow quickly after harvesting.
Cherry Tomatoes: Smaller tomato varieties, especially cherry tomatoes, are well-suited for containers. They produce abundant fruit and can be grown in hanging baskets.
Carrots: Choose shorter carrot varieties, and use deep containers to accommodate their root growth. Ensure the soil is loose and well-draining.
Kale: Kale is a hardy leafy green that can be grown in pots. It's resistant to pests and cold temperatures.
Strawberries and small fruit trees like lemons are space savers and can often share the same pot. Both will overwinter in a sunny window inside.
When growing vegetables in containers, consider the following tips:
Quality Soil: Use a high-quality potting mix with added organic matter for better water retention and nutrient availability.
Sunlight: Most vegetables require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Ensure your terrace receives adequate sunlight.
Watering: Container plants may require more frequent watering, especially during hot weather. Check the moisture level regularly and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to provide essential nutrients to your container plants.
Before starting, check the specific requirements of each vegetable and adjust your terrace gardening plan accordingly.
What is the return on investment per plant type
Determining the return on investment (ROI) for growing vegetables on a city terrace in pots depends on various factors such as the cost of seeds or seedlings, soil, containers, water, fertilizer, and the market value of the harvested produce. Additionally, personal preferences, local market conditions, and the level of care given to the plants can influence the results.
Here's a general perspective on the potential ROI for some common container-grown vegetables:
Herbs (e.g., basil, mint, parsley): Herbs are often relatively inexpensive to start from seeds or small seedlings. Since they're used in smaller quantities, the cost per serving is low, making herbs a cost-effective choice.
Tomatoes: While tomato plants may require larger containers and more care, they can yield a substantial amount of fruit. The ROI depends on factors such as the cost of the tomato variety, container size, and local market prices for tomatoes. A typical Plant Start may cost 3-5 dollars and a plant will yield 5-10 pounds of tomatoes worth several dollars per pound.
Lettuce and Salad Greens: These crops are quick to grow, and if harvested continuously, they can provide a steady supply. However, they might not yield as much monetary value compared to some other vegetables. These produce all season and are often cheaper and easier than buying bagged salad at 5.00 a tub.
Bell Peppers and Cucumbers: Both peppers and cucumbers starts run 3-5 a plant but they typically produce a good yield per plant. The ROI depends on local market prices and the quantity produced. A typical plant will produce 5-10 peppers or cucumbers per plant (value of 2 each) and generally produce all season.
Root Vegetables (e.g., carrots, radishes): The ROI for root vegetables can be influenced by the cost of seeds, container size, and local market prices. Root vegetables often have a lower market value per pound compared to some other vegetables. These are cheap to grow and easy. And cheap to buy at the store so a toss up? But, growing potatoes in a bucket is very rewarding... lots of potatoes for no work.
Cherry Tomatoes and Small Fruiting Plants: Compact varieties of tomatoes or small fruiting plants like lemon trees can yield a good number of fruits in a relatively small space, making them potentially very cost-effective.
It's important to note that the primary benefit of growing vegetables at home often goes beyond financial considerations. Factors such as the joy of gardening, access to fresh and organic produce, and the environmental impact of reducing transportation and packaging contribute to the overall value.
To estimate your potential ROI, consider researching local market prices for the vegetables you plan to grow, tracking your expenses, and keeping a record of your harvest. Keep in mind that the non-monetary benefits of home gardening can outweigh the financial aspects for many people.
