35 Plant Varieties that Grow Best in Vertical Gardens

Table of Contents

Introduction

Tomatoes, peppers, basil, beets, carrots, chamomile, kale, marigolds, radishes, spinach, swiss chard, and zinnias all thrive in vertical settings with the right care. Each of these plants has specific needs for container depth, sunlight, and water, which we’ll explore in detail. From dwarf tomato varieties needing at least 12 inches of soil and full sun to compact zinnias flourishing in just 6-8 inches, the right setup ensures a bountiful harvest.

Certain varieties are particularly well-suited for vertical gardens due to their dwarf size or shallow root systems. Cherry, grape, and patio tomatoes, for example, are ideal for vertical setups because they are compact and can grow in containers with limited soil depth. Similarly, peppers like bell and jalapeno thrive in vertical gardens because of their manageable size and root system.

This article dives into the best practices for each plant, ensuring they flourish in vertical gardens. You’ll learn the ideal container depths, sunlight requirements, watering needs, and tips on companion planting to maximize growth. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, this guide will help you create a thriving vertical garden filled with diverse and productive plant varieties. Expect detailed sections on each plant type, covering everything from soil preferences and frost tolerance to friends and foes in the garden. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to grow a vibrant vertical garden, packed with delicious vegetables, fragrant herbs, and colorful flowers.

Tomatoes: Cherry, Grape, and Patio Varieties

Cherry, grape, and patio tomatoes are perfect for vertical gardens. They need at least 12 inches of container depth to grow strong roots. These varieties thrive in full sun, so place them where they can get at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.

Tomatoes need regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. While they can tolerate some drought, it’s best to keep their soil well-drained and fertile to promote healthy growth. Using a high-quality potting mix enriched with compost works wonders.

Frost is a no-go for these plants. Make sure to plant them after the last frost date in your area. Companion planting with basil and marigolds can help keep pests away and improve the health of your tomatoes. Keep them away from potatoes and fennel, as these can hinder their growth and increase the risk of disease.

Support your tomato plants with stakes, trellises, or cages to help them grow vertically. Regularly prune the lower leaves and any suckers that appear between the main stem and branches to direct energy to fruit production. With these tips, you’ll have a bountiful harvest of delicious cherry, grape, and patio tomatoes from your vertical garden.

Tomato Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 12 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun
Water Needs: Regular, moderate drought tolerance
Soil Types: Well-drained, fertile soil
Frost Tolerance: None
Friends: Basil, marigolds
Foes: Potatoes, fennel

Peppers: Bell, Jalapeno, and Banana Peppers

Bell, jalapeno, and banana peppers are excellent choices for vertical gardens due to their compact growth habits and manageable root systems. These peppers need containers with a depth of at least 12 inches to support their root development.

These varieties thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. While they can handle some drought, it’s best to maintain a steady watering schedule to ensure healthy growth.

Plant peppers in well-drained, fertile soil. Adding compost or a balanced fertilizer can boost their growth. Peppers are not frost-tolerant, so plant them after the last frost date and bring them indoors or cover them if an unexpected frost occurs.

Companion planting can enhance pepper growth. Basil and carrots are good neighbors, helping to deter pests and improve soil health. Avoid planting peppers near beans and cabbage, as these can compete for nutrients and attract harmful insects.

Support your pepper plants with stakes or small cages to keep them upright as they grow. Regularly check for pests like aphids and treat them with insecticidal soap if needed. With the right care, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest of vibrant bell, spicy jalapeno, and sweet banana peppers from your vertical garden.

Pepper Information at a Glance

Basil: Genovese, Thai, and Lemon Basil

Genovese, Thai, and lemon basil varieties are perfect for vertical gardens due to their compact growth and shallow root systems. These plants require containers with a depth of 6-8 inches to accommodate their roots.

Basil thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Well-drained, rich soil is ideal for promoting healthy growth and vibrant flavors.

Frost is detrimental to basil, so plant it after the last frost date in your area and protect it from any unexpected cold snaps. Companion planting with tomatoes and peppers can boost basil’s growth and flavor while helping to repel pests. Avoid planting basil near rue and sage, as these can inhibit its growth.

To encourage bushier growth, pinch off the top leaves regularly. This will promote more branching and result in a fuller plant. Harvesting frequently not only provides you with fresh basil but also encourages the plant to produce more leaves. Whether you choose the classic Genovese, the aromatic Thai, or the citrusy lemon basil, these varieties will thrive in your vertical garden with the right care.

Basil Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun
Water Needs: Regular
Soil Types: Well-drained, rich soil
Frost Tolerance: None
Friends: Tomatoes, peppers
Foes: Rue, sage

Spinach: Bloomsdale, Savoy, and Baby Leaf Spinach

Bloomsdale, Savoy, and baby leaf spinach varieties are ideal for vertical gardens due to their shallow root systems and compact growth. These types of spinach thrive in containers with a depth of 6-8 inches.

Spinach grows well in full sun to partial shade, making it versatile for different garden setups. It requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Rich, well-drained soil is essential for optimal growth and nutrient uptake.

These varieties can tolerate light frost, making them suitable for early spring or late fall planting. Companion planting with strawberries and radishes can enhance spinach growth and deter pests. Avoid planting spinach near potatoes and fennel, as they can compete for nutrients and space.

Harvest spinach leaves regularly to encourage new growth. For baby leaf spinach, pick the outer leaves when they are young and tender. For Bloomsdale and Savoy, wait until the leaves are larger but still tender. Regular harvesting not only provides a continuous supply of fresh greens but also keeps the plants productive throughout the growing season.

Spinach Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Water Needs: Regular
Soil Types: Rich, well-drained soil
Frost Tolerance: Light frost tolerance
Friends: Strawberries, radishes
Foes: Potatoes, fennel

Swiss Chard: Bright Lights, Fordhook Giant, and Rhubarb Chard

Bright Lights, Fordhook Giant, and Rhubarb Chard are excellent for vertical gardens due to their colorful stems and manageable growth habits. These varieties need containers with a depth of 8-12 inches to develop strong roots.

Swiss chard thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it versatile for various garden locations. Regular watering is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Using rich, well-drained soil helps promote lush, healthy growth.

These types can tolerate light frost, allowing for extended growing seasons in cooler climates. Companion planting with carrots and onions can improve soil health and deter pests. Avoid planting near pole beans and corn, as these can compete for nutrients and space.

Harvesting Swiss chard is simple and continuous. Cut the outer leaves when they are tender and full-sized, leaving the inner leaves to grow. This encourages new growth and ensures a steady supply of fresh chard. Whether you choose the vibrant stems of Bright Lights, the robust growth of Fordhook Giant, or the rich red stalks of Rhubarb Chard, these varieties will thrive in your vertical garden with proper care.

Swiss Chard Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 8-12 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Water Needs: Regular
Soil Types: Rich, well-drained soil
Frost Tolerance: Light frost tolerance
Friends: Carrots, onions
Foes: Pole beans, corn

Kale: Curly, Lacinato, and Red Russian Kale

Curly, Lacinato, and Red Russian kale varieties are perfect for vertical gardens due to their hardy nature and compact growth. These plants require containers with a depth of at least 12 inches to support their deep root systems.

Kale thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it adaptable to various lighting conditions. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained. Using rich soil with good drainage promotes robust growth and vibrant leaves.

These types of kale have high frost tolerance, making them excellent for growing in cooler climates and extending the growing season into late fall. Companion planting with beets and celery can enhance their growth and deter pests. Avoid planting kale near tomatoes and strawberries, as they can compete for nutrients and attract harmful insects.

Harvest kale leaves regularly by picking the outer leaves first, which encourages new growth from the center. This method ensures a continuous supply of fresh, tender leaves. Whether you prefer the curly, frilled leaves of Curly Kale, the dark, bumpy leaves of Lacinato Kale, or the tender, slightly sweet leaves of Red Russian Kale, these varieties will thrive in your vertical garden with the right care.

Kale Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 12 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Water Needs: Regular
Soil Types: Rich, well-drained soil
Frost Tolerance: High frost tolerance
Friends: Beets, celery
Foes: Tomatoes, strawberries

Radishes: Cherry Belle, French Breakfast, and Watermelon Radishes

Cherry Belle, French Breakfast, and Watermelon radishes are ideal for vertical gardens due to their fast growth and shallow root systems. These varieties thrive in containers with a depth of 6-8 inches.

Radishes grow well in full sun to partial shade, making them versatile for different garden locations. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist. Loose, well-drained soil is crucial to prevent root rot and ensure healthy growth.

These types of radishes can tolerate light frost, making them suitable for early spring or late fall planting. Companion planting with lettuce and peas can help improve soil structure and deter pests. Avoid planting radishes near hyssop and cabbage, as these can inhibit their growth.

Harvest radishes when they reach their mature size, typically within 3-4 weeks for Cherry Belle and French Breakfast varieties, and slightly longer for Watermelon radishes. Regularly checking and harvesting radishes ensures they remain tender and crisp. With the right care, you’ll enjoy a continuous supply of fresh, crunchy radishes from your vertical garden.

Radishes Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Water Needs: Regular
Soil Types: Loose, well-drained soil
Frost Tolerance: Light frost tolerance
Friends: Lettuce, peas
Foes: Hyssop, cabbage

Beets: Detroit Dark Red, Golden, and Chioggia Beets

Detroit Dark Red, Golden, and Chioggia beets are perfect for vertical gardens due to their shallow root systems and compact size. These varieties thrive in containers with a depth of 6-8 inches.

Beets grow well in full sun to partial shade, making them adaptable to different garden environments. Consistent moisture is crucial for beets to develop properly, so water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Loose, well-drained soil is essential to allow the roots to expand and develop without obstruction.

These types of beets can tolerate light frost, making them suitable for early spring or late fall planting. Companion planting with lettuce and onions can enhance beet growth by improving soil conditions and deterring pests. Avoid planting beets near pole beans and mustard, as these can compete for nutrients and negatively impact beet growth.

Harvest beets when they reach the desired size, typically around 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter. Smaller beets tend to be more tender and flavorful. For Detroit Dark Red and Golden beets, this is usually about 55-70 days after planting, while Chioggia beets may be ready slightly earlier. Regularly check your beets and harvest them at the right time to enjoy their sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant colors.

Beets Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Water Needs: Consistent moisture
Soil Types: Well-drained, loose soil
Frost Tolerance: Light frost tolerance
Friends: Lettuce, onions
Foes: Pole beans, mustard

Carrots: Nantes, Chantenay, and Danvers Carrots

Nantes, Chantenay, and Danvers carrots are ideal for vertical gardens due to their manageable size and shallow root systems. These varieties thrive in containers with a depth of 6-8 inches.

Carrots grow best in full sun to partial shade, ensuring they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Regular watering is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist, which is vital for root development. Loose, sandy soil is ideal for carrots, allowing their roots to grow straight and avoid deformities.

These carrot varieties can tolerate light frost, making them suitable for early spring or late fall planting. Companion planting with tomatoes and onions can improve growth and deter pests. Avoid planting carrots near dill and parsley, as these can inhibit their growth and attract harmful insects.

Harvest carrots when they reach the desired size, typically within 60-70 days for Nantes and Danvers varieties, and around 70-75 days for Chantenay. Check the size of the carrot tops to gauge maturity and pull them gently from the soil. Regularly thinning the seedlings ensures proper spacing and prevents overcrowding, resulting in healthier, more robust carrots. Enjoy the sweet, crisp flavors of these varieties fresh from your vertical garden.

Carrots Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Water Needs: Regular
Soil Types: Loose, sandy soil
Frost Tolerance: Light frost tolerance
Friends: Tomatoes, onions
Foes: Dill, parsley

Marigolds: French, African, and Signet Marigolds

French, African, and Signet marigolds are perfect for vertical gardens due to their vibrant colors and compact growth habits. These varieties thrive in containers with a depth of 6-8 inches.

Marigolds need full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. These plants have moderate water needs and are drought-tolerant once established, making them low-maintenance. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

These varieties are not frost-tolerant, so plant them after the last frost date in your area. Companion planting with tomatoes and peppers can help deter pests and improve the overall health of your garden. Avoid planting marigolds near beans and cabbage, as these can inhibit their growth and attract unwanted pests.

Regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering and maintain a tidy appearance. French marigolds are known for their smaller, bushier growth and can be used as border plants. African marigolds are taller and produce larger blooms, making them excellent focal points. Signet marigolds have delicate, lacy foliage and smaller flowers, adding a unique texture to your garden. With proper care, these marigold varieties will bring color and vitality to your vertical garden.

Marigolds Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun
Water Needs: Moderate, drought-tolerant
Soil Types: Well-drained soil
Frost Tolerance: None
Friends: Tomatoes, peppers
Foes: Beans, cabbage

Zinnias: Thumbelina, Lilliput, and State Fair Zinnias

Zinnias: Thumbelina, Lilliput, and State Fair Zinnias
Thumbelina, Lilliput, and State Fair zinnias are excellent choices for vertical gardens due to their vibrant blooms and compact growth. These varieties thrive in containers with a depth of 6-8 inches.

Zinnias require full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Their water needs are moderate; keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot and encourage healthy growth.

These flowers are not frost-tolerant, so plant them after the last frost date in your area. Companion planting with tomatoes and basil can enhance growth and deter pests. Unlike many plants, zinnias have no specific foes, making them versatile companions in any garden setting.

Thumbelina zinnias are dwarf varieties, growing up to 6 inches tall and perfect for small spaces. Lilliput zinnias are slightly taller, reaching up to 18 inches and producing charming, small blooms. State Fair zinnias are the largest, with plants growing up to 3 feet tall and showcasing large, vibrant flowers. Regular deadheading promotes continuous blooming and a neat appearance. With the right care, these zinnia varieties will add a burst of color and joy to your vertical garden.

Zinnias Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun
Water Needs: Moderate
Soil Types: Well-drained soil
Frost Tolerance: None
Friends: Tomatoes, basil
Foes: None

Chamomile: German and Roman Chamomile

German and Roman chamomile are perfect for vertical gardens due to their compact growth and soothing properties. These varieties thrive in containers with a depth of 6-8 inches.

Chamomile requires full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Moderate watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Well-drained soil is crucial to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Both types of chamomile can tolerate light frost, making them suitable for cooler climates. Companion planting with cabbage and onions can enhance growth and deter pests. Avoid planting chamomile near mint and basil, as these can inhibit its growth.

German chamomile grows taller, reaching up to 2 feet, and is often used for making herbal teas due to its high essential oil content. Roman chamomile is a low-growing perennial, typically reaching about 12 inches, and is excellent for ground cover and lawns. Regularly harvest the flowers when they are fully open to encourage continuous blooming and maintain plant health. With proper care, German and Roman chamomile will thrive in your vertical garden, providing beauty and a soothing harvest.

Chamomile Information at a Glance

Container Depth: 6-8 inches
Sun Requirement: Full sun
Water Needs: Moderate
Soil Types: Well-drained soil
Frost Tolerance: Light frost tolerance
Friends: Cabbage, onions
Foes: Mint, basil

These examples highlight plant varieties with shallow to moderate root systems, perfect for vertical gardening. For a comprehensive list of plants suitable for vertical gardens, download our free report now.

Conclusion

Creating a thriving vertical garden is both an art and a science, requiring careful selection of plant varieties that thrive in shallow to moderate containers. From the juicy cherry, grape, and patio tomatoes to the vibrant French, African, and Signet marigolds, each plant brings unique flavors, colors, and textures to your garden. Peppers like bell, jalapeno, and banana are perfect companions to your tomatoes and basil, ensuring a well-rounded harvest.

Herbs such as Genovese, Thai, and lemon basil are not only easy to grow but also enhance the growth and flavor of neighboring plants. The leafy greens like Bloomsdale, Savoy, and baby leaf spinach, along with kale varieties such as curly, Lacinato, and Red Russian, provide nutritious options that are simple to cultivate in vertical setups.

Root vegetables like Cherry Belle, French Breakfast, and Watermelon radishes, as well as Detroit Dark Red, Golden, and Chioggia beets, offer quick-growing, colorful additions that thrive in loose, well-drained soil. Carrots, including Nantes, Chantenay, and Danvers, require a bit more attention but reward you with sweet, crisp roots.

Flowers like Thumbelina, Lilliput, and State Fair zinnias bring beauty and color, while German and Roman chamomile add a soothing touch with their fragrant blooms. By following the specific requirements for container depth, sun exposure, water needs, and companion planting, you can create a vibrant and productive vertical garden.

This guide equips you with the knowledge to select and care for the best plant varieties suited for vertical gardening. With the right strategies and a bit of attention, your vertical garden will flourish, providing a continuous supply of fresh produce and flowers, enhancing both your space and your gardening experience.