Growing fruits in containers is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh produce, even with limited space. Here are the 15 easiest fruits to grow in containers, including their preferred container sizes, recommended varieties, and the time it takes to harvest.
1. Strawberries
Strawberries are a popular choice for container gardening due to their compact size and high yield.
An 8-12-inch-deep container is ideal for growing strawberries, allowing enough space for the roots to develop.
Varieties like ‘Albion,’ ‘Ozark Beauty,’ and ‘Quinault’ are particularly well-suited for containers. These everbearing types produce fruit throughout the growing season.
Strawberries typically take 4-6 weeks from flowering to harvest, providing a steady supply of sweet, juicy berries.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries thrive in containers, especially if you choose dwarf varieties such as ‘Top Hat,’ ‘Sunshine Blue,’ or ‘Patriot.’
These plants require a container at least 12-16 inches deep and wide to accommodate their root systems.
Blueberries prefer acidic soil, so using a potting mix designed for acid-loving plants is crucial.
Harvesting blueberries can take about two years after planting, but the wait is worth it as these berries are packed with antioxidants and flavor.
3. Tomatoes
While technically a fruit, tomatoes are a staple in container gardening. For growing tomatoes in pots, choose determinate varieties like ‘Bush Early Girl,’ ‘Patio Princess,’ or ‘Tiny Tim.’ These types are more compact and manageable in containers.
A 5-gallon or larger container is recommended to provide adequate root space. Depending on the variety, tomatoes usually take about 60-80 days to harvest from planting.
They need full sun and regular watering to produce the best fruit.
4. Figs
Figs are surprisingly easy to grow in containers and thrive even in small spaces. Opt for a container that is at least 16-20 inches deep and wide.
Varieties such as ‘Petite Negra,’ ‘Little Miss Figgy,’ and ‘Brown Turkey’ are excellent container-growing choices.
Figs can take anywhere from one to two years to produce fruit, but once established, they can yield two crops per year. These trees prefer a sunny spot and well-draining soil.
5. Lemons
Citrus trees, like lemons, are perfect for container growing. Choose a dwarf variety such as ‘Improved Meyer Lemon’ for the best results.
These trees need a large container, at least 12-24 inches in diameter and equally deep, to support their growth.
Lemon trees take about 6-9 months to produce fruit after flowering, and they need a sunny location with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Regular watering and occasional feeding with citrus fertilizer will keep them healthy and productive.
6. Apples
You can successfully grow dwarf apple trees in containers. Varieties like ‘Dwarf Red Delicious’ and ‘Dwarf Golden Delicious’ are well-suited for pots.
Use a container at least 18-24 inches deep and wide.
Apple trees usually take 2-3 years to start producing fruit, but the reward of fresh, crisp apples is worth the wait. These trees require a sunny spot and benefit from regular pruning to maintain their shape and health.
7. Raspberries
Raspberries can be grown in containers, especially if you select dwarf or bush varieties like ‘Heritage’ or ‘Raspberry Shortcake.’
A deep container, at least 24 inches, is essential for accommodating their extensive root systems. Raspberries typically take about 12-18 months to bear fruit.
They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, and they should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
There are additional raspberry resources on this site.
8. Blackberries
Like raspberries, blackberries thrive in containers if given enough space. Varieties such as ‘Baby Cakes’ and ‘Black Butte’ are suitable for container growing. Use a container that is at least 24 inches deep and wide.
Blackberries usually take about one year to produce fruit. These plants need full sun and regular watering to thrive. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.
Compare: Can You Plant Raspberries and Blackberries Together?
9. Grapes
Grapes can be grown in containers, particularly if you choose compact varieties like ‘Pixie’ or ‘Canadice.’
A large container, at least 15-20 gallons, is necessary to support the vine’s growth. Grapes typically take about 2-3 years to start producing fruit.
They require full sun and well-draining soil, and regular pruning is essential to maintain their shape and encourage fruit production.
10. Peaches
Dwarf peach trees are well-suited for container growing. Varieties such as ‘Bonanza’ and ‘Pixzee’ are excellent choices.
A container that is at least 15-20 gallons in size is ideal for these trees. Peaches usually take about 2-3 years to bear fruit.
These trees need full sun and regular watering, and they benefit from a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
11. Pears
Dwarf pear trees, like ‘Garden Pearl’ and ‘Dwarf Bartlett,’ can be grown in containers. A large container, at least 18-24 inches deep and wide, is needed to support their growth.
Pear trees generally take about 3-4 years to start producing fruit.
They require full sun, regular watering, and pruning to maintain their shape and health.
12. Plums
Dwarf plum trees are another excellent choice for container gardening. Varieties such as ‘Santa Rosa’ and ‘Dwarf Beauty’ are suitable for pots. Use a container at least 18-24 inches deep and wide.
Plums usually take about 3-4 years to bear fruit. These trees need full sun and regular watering, and they benefit from regular pruning to encourage fruit production.
13. Cherries
Dwarf cherry trees, like ‘Stella’ and ‘Compact Stella,’ can be grown in containers. A large container, at least 18-24 inches deep and wide, is necessary to support their growth.
Cherry trees generally take about 3-4 years to start producing fruit.
Dwarf cherry trees require full sun, regular watering, and pruning to maintain their shape and health.
14. Pomegranates
Pomegranates can be grown in containers, especially if you choose dwarf varieties like ‘Nana’ or ‘Provence.’
A container at least 12-16 inches deep and wide is ideal. Pomegranates typically take about 2-3 years to produce fruit. T
hey prefer full sun and well-draining soil, and they should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
15. Pineapples
Pineapples are surprisingly easy to grow in containers. Use a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide.
Pineapples can take about 18-24 months to produce fruit, but they are low-maintenance and add a tropical touch to your garden.
They require full sun and well-draining soil, and they benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer.
FAQs on Easy to Grow Fruits in Pots
Q: What are the best containers for growing fruit?
A: Containers made of durable materials like plastic, ceramic, or wood are best for growing fruit. Ensure they have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Q: How often should I water my container-grown fruit plants?
A: Watering frequency depends on the fruit type, container size, and weather conditions. Generally, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can I grow fruit in containers indoors?
A: Many fruits can be grown indoors if they receive adequate sunlight. Place them near a south-facing window or use grow lights.
Q: Do container-grown fruit plants need fertilizer?
A: Container-grown fruit plants benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer such as AgroThrive Fruit and Flower Organic Liquid Fertilizer – 3-3-5 NPK (pictured ⬆) but use it according to the plant’s specific needs.
Conclusion
Growing fruit in containers is a versatile and rewarding way to enjoy fresh produce even with limited space. By choosing the right varieties of the easiest fruits to grow in containers and providing proper care, you can harvest delicious fruits from your own container garden.
Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious patio, there is a fruit plant that can thrive in your space and provide a bountiful harvest.