My partner and I want to start growing herbs and vegetables in planters on our apartment balcony. We’re both beginners with no prior experience. What are some good herbs and vegetables to start with? We live in East Tennessee.
Many vegetables thrive in 5-gallon containers, including:
Cucumbers
Zucchini
Various types of peppers
Eggplants
Different kinds of tomatoes (slicers, grape, paste)
String beans or other bush bean varieties
I think a 5-gallon container is too small for zucchini. A 7-10 gallon container would be better.
Usually, the bigger the pot gives you a bigger plant because the roots are not as restricted. I quite agree that a 7-10 gallon is better but I was thinking about space availability on the OP’s apartment balcony.
You can grow a variety of herbs and vegetables on your balcony, such as:
Sage, cilantro, rosemary, oregano, thyme, basil, chives, mustard, or lemongrass
Mints like spearmint, peppermint, chocolate mint, and lemon balm
Tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, and microgreens
Your balcony will be full! You might also consider adding strawberries for a sweet treat.