Welcome to the wonderful world of container gardening! Starting your first urban planter box is exciting, and the easiest path to success begins with herbs. They are forgiving, fast-growing, and incredibly rewarding.
For your very first planting, we highly recommend starting with leafy herbs. Think basil, mint, parsley, or chives. Why are these the best? They germinate and grow relatively quickly, allowing you to see progress. They are also very tolerant of beginner mistakes, like occasional under or over-watering. Simply plant seeds or starter plants in quality potting soil, place your box in a spot that gets at least 4-6 hours of sunlight, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Within weeks, you'll have fresh flavors for your kitchen.
If you want something even faster from seed, consider leafy greens like lettuce or spinach. They sprout quickly and don't require deep soil. The key for beginners is to avoid starting with vegetables that need more space, precise conditions, or a long growing season, like tomatoes or peppers, in your first attempt.
Your only three rules for now are: 1) Use fresh potting mix, not garden soil. 2) Ensure your boxes have drainage holes. 3) Don't overwater—check the soil first. Start simple, enjoy the process of watching life grow, and build your confidence. Your green thumb starts here!