Growing Shallow-Rooted Vegetables

A common question we are asked is, ‘what vegetables can thrive in shallow containers?’. These crops are known as shallow-rooted vegetables.

Generally, for most vegetable crops, you want the largest container your space will allow, as this helps prevent soil from drying out and allows for much happier plants. There are also other benefits to using the largest container possible. See the Container Gardening articles in our Garden Wisdom Blog for more information on growing productive crops in containers.

If your space only allows for small containers, consider shallow-rooted vegetables. Shallow-rooted vegetables do not have a large root zone, so they do not require more than 6–10 inches of soil space to grow happily. An added benefit of shallow-rooted vegetables is that they are easy to grow, can be grown year-round in Zones 9 and 10, and they are quick to mature.

What are shallow-rooted vegetables?

Here is a list of the easiest-to-grow crops that do not have large root systems.

• Beets:  Best when harvested as small and tender “baby beets.”

• Fennel: It thrives in small containers if it is not allowed to get too big. Harvest as soon as it’s of a good enough size to consume.

• Baby leaf lettuces: Baby leaf or looseleaf lettuces are best for shallow containers; you can grow heading lettuces in shallow containers as well, but they will have a larger root zone and take up more soil space.

• Radishes: Another shallow rooted superstar!

• Bunching or spring onions: These are shallow-rooted vegetable super stars! They grow happily in shallow containers.

• Microgreens: Microgreens are super simple to grow and can be harvested in only 7–10 days (about 1 and a half weeks)!

All these crops can easily grow in small containers. What is most important to remember is that the smaller the container, the quicker it will dry out. This means in warmer climates you may need water more than once a day. So, keep a look out for drying soil! Adding quality soil and compost to your containers will help to retain moisture between waterings.

As the crop matures, the roots will fill most of the soil, causing the pot to try out even faster due to the limited amount of soil acting as a sponge. Stay vigilant and check your pots often!