Container Size and Soil Mix for Deck-Grown Tomatoes and Peppers

Use containers at least 24 inches wide (half whiskey barrels work well) to moderate soil temperature and conserve moisture. One or two tomatoes or six peppers per barrel. Mix: quality potting soil with compost. Dwarf varieties like 'Red Robin', 'Florida Petite', 'Micro-Tom' thrive in pots and yield abundant small fruit.

Large containers prevent daily watering and heat stress.