Urban gardening brings nature to our doorsteps, but not all plants thrive in the confined space of planter boxes. Choosing the wrong plants can lead to disappointment and wasted effort. Here are some plants you should generally avoid for urban planter boxes.
Firstly, steer clear of large trees and shrubs with extensive root systems, like oak trees or lilac bushes. Their roots quickly become pot-bound and struggle to access sufficient water and nutrients, ultimately stunting their growth. Similarly, avoid plants that grow excessively tall or wide, such as corn or large varieties of sunflowers. They can become top-heavy, unstable, and may even topple over in a strong wind, posing a safety risk.
Secondly, most deep-rooted vegetables are poor choices. Plants like standard carrots and parsnips require deep, loose soil to develop their long taproots properly. In a shallow planter, they will become stunted, forked, and misshapen. While some dwarf or round varieties exist, traditional types are best grown in the ground.
Furthermore, be cautious with aggressive spreaders and invasive plants. Mint is a classic example; it will rapidly take over the entire box, choking out other plants. Similarly, plants like bamboo can send out runners that not only dominate the container but might also damage nearby structures.
Finally, avoid plants that are highly susceptible to pests and diseases, especially in the close quarters of a city balcony. Roses, for instance, can be prone to black spot and aphids, requiring more care and chemical treatments than might be ideal for a small urban space. Instead, focus on compact, shallow-rooted, and resilient plants like herbs, lettuces, dwarf tomatoes, and marigolds to create a thriving and beautiful urban oasis.