Container Vegetable Gardening: Varieties and Schedule

Container gardening is ideal for outsmarting a digging puppy. Choose compact or dwarf varieties of peppers, tomatoes, okra, and cool-season crops like lettuce and spinach. Use light-colored pots—dark containers absorb heat and can damage roots. Ensure pots have drainage holes and fill with a high-quality potting mix. For a planting calendar tailored to the Southeast, consult the North Carolina State Extension guide at xrl.us/containerveg. It details when to start each crop, container sizes, and fertilization schedules. Place containers in a sunny spot (6+ hours of sun), water consistently, and feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks.