No backyard? No problem. Start your own edible garden using upcycled containers and beginner-friendly plants
Materials Checklist – Recycled or Budget-Friendly
| What You Need | Reuse/DIY Ideas |
|---|---|
| Containers | Storage totes, 5-gallon buckets, large yogurt tubs, milk crates (lined), foil roasting pans with holes |
| Drainage Holes | Use drill, nail, or heated screwdriver to poke holes |
| Soil | Bagged potting mix, or mix compost + coconut coir or peat moss |
| Seeds or Starter Plants | See plant list below 👇 |
| Watering Tool | Spray bottle or juice bottle with holes poked in lid |
| Plant Labels | Popsicle sticks, plastic forks, tape and pen |
| Optional | Small pebbles or gravel for drainage layer |
🥬 Easy Plants to Start in Small Containers
🌿 Herbs (Best for Small or Shallow Containers)
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Basil
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Cilantro
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Mint
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Chives
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Parsley
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Green onions (regrow from scraps!)
🥕 Easy Vegetables (Work Well in Buckets or Totes)
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Leafy greens: spinach, arugula, kale, lettuce
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Radishes
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Cherry tomatoes (need sunlight + a deep container)
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Bush beans
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Peas
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Carrots (in deep tubs or crates)
✅ Tip: Leafy greens and herbs can grow in just 4–6 inches of soil. Root vegetables and tomatoes need at least 10–12 inches.
Step-by-Step Setup Instructions
Step 1: Choose & Clean Your Container
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Use containers at least 6–12 inches deep.
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Wash with soap and water. Rinse well.
Step 2: Add Drainage Holes
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Poke 4–6 small holes in the bottom for water to escape.
Step 3: Prepare Your Soil
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Use potting mix or a DIY blend:
60% compost + 40% peat moss or coco coir -
Optional: Add small rocks or pebbles to bottom for drainage.
Step 4: Plant Your Seeds or Starters
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Read your seed packet for spacing and depth.
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Gently plant seeds or starter plants and press soil around the base.
Step 5: Label Your Plants
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Label each row or section with the plant name and planting date.
Step 6: Water Gently
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Use a spray bottle or watering can.
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Keep soil moist but not soggy — check daily.
Step 7: Place in a Sunny Spot
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Your garden needs 4–6 hours of sunlight per day.
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Great locations: porch, balcony, windowsill, or patio.
🌟 Tips for Success
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Rotate containers weekly to keep plants growing evenly.
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Harvest greens and herbs often to encourage more growth.
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Reuse what you have — growing in upcycled containers saves money and waste.
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Start with 2–3 herbs and 1–2 easy veggies to keep it simple.
Journal Prompt (for LMS or Workbook)
What container(s) will you use for your garden?
What herbs or vegetables are you starting with, and why did you choose them?
CLICK HERE -> VEGETABLE GARDENING WORKBOOK