Starting your urban gardening journey can feel daunting, but the secret to early success is choosing the right plants. For a beginner, the most foolproof type of plant to grow in urban planter boxes is, without a doubt, herbs and leafy greens. These plants are forgiving, fast-growing, and don't require a deep root system, making them perfect for the confined space of a planter box.
Let's explore some top contenders for your first planter box garden.
1. Herbs: The Aromatic and Resilient Choice
Herbs are the champions of the beginner's garden. They are remarkably low-maintenance and offer immediate rewards for your cooking.
* Mint: Incredibly vigorous, mint is almost impossible to kill. A word of caution: it's best grown in its own container as it can aggressively take over space.
* Basil: This sun-loving herb grows quickly from seed or starter plants. Regular harvesting of the leaves encourages a bushier plant.
* Chives: These hardy plants produce delicious, grass-like leaves and lovely purple flowers. They are perennial, meaning they will come back year after year.
* Parsley: Both flat-leaf and curly parsley are very adaptable and can handle a bit of shade.
2. Leafy Greens: For Fast and Rewarding Harvests
If you want to see results quickly, leafy greens are your best bet.
* Lettuce (Leaf Varieties): Varieties like Oakleaf or Lollo Rosso are perfect. You can practice "cut-and-come-again" harvesting, snipping off a few outer leaves at a time, and the plant will keep producing.
* Spinach & Kale: These nutrient-packed greens are cold-tolerant and grow well in the cooler seasons of spring and fall.
* Swiss Chard: With its stunning colorful stems, chard is both edible and ornamental. It is more heat-tolerant than spinach, giving you a longer harvest window.
3. The Easiest Flowers for a Pop of Color
To add beauty and attract pollinators, consider these nearly fail-proof flowers.
* Marigolds: These bright, cheerful flowers are tough and can even help repel certain pests from your edible plants.
* Nasturtiums: The entire plant is edible, with a peppery flavor! They thrive in poorer soil and bloom prolifically.
Pro-Tips for Guaranteed Success:
* Sunlight is Key: Most of these plants need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. Place your planter box on a sunny balcony or windowsill.
* Don't Overwater: The most common beginner mistake is over-loving with water. Check the soil by sticking your finger an inch down; if it's dry, it's time to water.
* Ensure Good Drainage: Always use planter boxes with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
By starting with these resilient and rewarding plants, you are setting yourself up for a thriving and enjoyable urban garden. Happy planting