As someone who has dabbled in vertical gardening, I know how exhilarating it can be to transform a blank wall or a flat surface into a lush garden space. One of the best parts about vertical gardening is that you can grow a variety of herbs, veggies, and flowers, even in limited space. It’s also a great solution for those with small yards, balconies, apartments, or anyone wanting to maximize their garden space. In this article, I’ll be highlighting some of the best, quick-growing plants for vertical gardens, especially if you’re a beginner.

1. Sweet Peas 🌸🌺

Sweet peas are a favorite amongst gardeners, and for a good reason. These climbing annuals produce delicate, fragrant blooms in varying shades of pink, purple, and blue. They’re also relatively easy to grow, quickly climbing up trellises, netting, or tall bamboo stakes. Sweet peas thrive in cool weather and prefer a rich, well-draining soil. They’re also relatively pest-free, making them a great option for organic gardening.

Close-up of pink sweet pea flowers against a trellis

2. Cherry Tomatoes 🍅🍅

Cherry tomatoes are one of the easiest and quickest-growing vegetables to grow in a vertical garden. These plants can produce an abundance of sweet, bite-size tomatoes throughout the growing season. Cherry tomato plants also have a compact growth habit, making them an excellent choice for small spaces. They grow well in containers or hanging baskets and prefer full sun, well-draining soil, and consistent watering.

A red cherry tomato hanging from a vine

3. Strawberries 🍓🍓

Strawberries are another popular choice for vertical gardens. These plants can produce a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy berries, even in limited space. Strawberries thrive in both full sun and partial shade, making them an ideal pick for balconies or areas with filtered light. They prefer well-draining soil and regular watering, and you can grow them in containers, pocket planters, or wall planters.

A handful of ripe, red strawberries resting on a window planter

4. Basil 🌿🌿

Basil is a versatile herb that’s a staple in many kitchens. It’s also incredibly easy to grow and thrives in vertical gardens. Basil prefers full sun and moist, well-draining soil. You can grow it in a tall pot or a pocket planter, and it pairs well with other herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano. Make sure to keep basil plants pinched back to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from going to seed.

Close-up of a bushy basil plant with green leaves

5. Cucumbers 🥒🥒

Cucumbers are vining plants that also work well in vertical gardens. They can produce an abundance of crisp, refreshing cucumbers throughout the growing season. Cucumbers prefer rich, well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. You can grow them in containers or use a trellis to support the vines’ growth, making them a great option for vertical gardens.

A green cucumber growing on a vine against a trellis

Tips for Growing Vertical Gardens 🌿🏡🌱

  • Choose plants that are well-suited for vertical gardening, including climbing, trailing, and vining plants.
  • Ensure that your plants have adequate sun, water, and nutrients and are planted in well-draining soil.
  • Use a trellis, netting, or bamboo stakes as supports for climbing plants.
  • Consider using pocket planters or wall planters to maximize vertical space.
  • Regularly pinch back herbs to encourage bushy growth.
  • Monitor your plants for pests and diseases and take action promptly.
  • Use organic methods to fertilize, control pests, and minimize the weed population.

With the right planning, care, and plant selection, anyone can create a thriving vertical garden filled with delicious herbs, vegetables, and flowers. Embrace the creativity and fun in vertical gardening, and enjoy the benefits of fresh produce, vibrant colors, and enchanting fragrances right at your doorstep.

A colorful vertical garden made up of different herbs, veggies, and flowers