Growing crops in small spaces

Where space is limited there are a large variety of crops which can be grown  in pots, containers and grow bags. Plants such as; beetroot, broad beans, carrots, Dwarf French beans, peas, potatoes, radishes, runner beans, chillies and peppers, onions, strawberries, herbs and tomatoes can all be grown successfully in small spaces.

As small containers can dry out quickly it is best to use a pot/container that is at least 30 - 45 cm (12 - 18 inches) deep and wide and to add water retaining crystals to the compost.

As the amount of soil/compost in pots is limited plants can run out of nutrients, particularly after regular watering where nutrients can be flushed out. To help avoid this you can use a good slow release fertiliser mixed in with compost and depending on the variety, a high potassium feed for fruiting plants such as tomatoes and peppers or a feed high in nitrogen for leafy crops. 

For more information please visit RHS - Vegetables in containers