10 Vertical Vegetable Garden Crops

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Hello fellow gardening enthusiasts! This blog is for everyone who has a garden big or small!  I want to share ways you can be creative and save space in your garden by growing vertically! We have had to get creative over the years as there’s SO many things I want to grow. One of the best solutions to maximizing the garden space is to grow a vertical garden. Today, I'm excited to share with you my top 10 crops to grow vertically in your vegetable garden, along with the fantastic benefits of vertical gardening and some trellis options to consider.

The Beauty of Vertical Gardening

Vertical gardening is a brilliant way to make the most of limited space while enjoying the abundant rewards of your efforts. Whether you have a small backyard, a balcony, or just want to add an aesthetic touch to your garden, vertical gardening has something for everyone. Here are some of the compelling benefits of going vertical:

1. Space Efficiency: Vertical gardening maximizes your growing area. It allows you to cultivate a wide variety of crops in a small footprint, making it perfect for those with limited space or want to grow ALL the things like me!.

2. Improved Air Circulation: When plants are grown vertically, they're better spaced out, which enhances air circulation. This reduces the risk of pests and diseases, leading to healthier crops.

3. Easy Harvesting: Harvesting becomes a breeze with vertical gardens. No more bending over or digging through tangled vines; your vegetables are right at eye level, making the process quicker and more enjoyable.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: Vertical gardens can be incredibly visually appealing. They add a unique, artistic element to your outdoor space and can be a real conversation starter. Check out our pumpkin arch photo below!

Let's dive into my top 10 vertical vegetable crops:

1. Tomatoes:

Tomatoes are a classic choice for vertical gardening. They thrive when supported by trellises or cages. Indeterminate varieties can grow tall, and with proper support, they yield delicious, juicy fruits all season long. Read the seed packet before purchasing to ensure it’s the right variety.

2. Cucumbers:

Cucumbers love to climb, and growing them vertically saves space and keeps the fruit clean and straight. Use a sturdy trellis, and you'll have a continuous supply of crisp cucumbers all summer long.

3. Peas:

Peas are natural climbers, and their delicate tendrils grasp onto trellises effortlessly. You can choose shelling or snap pea varieties, again read the label to ensure it needs a trellis. Some snap pea varieties are bush and will not grow tall. Enjoy the delicious taste of homegrown peas that are easy to pick. It’s fun for the whole family.

4. Beans:

Best choices are pole beans or runner beans, they make excellent vertical garden choices. They can also come in a variety of colours! We often start beans in smaller pots late spring and transplant them where the peas were growing mid summer.

5. Squash:

Vertical gardening might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of squash, but it's entirely possible! Choose smaller varieties like acorn or summer zucchinis.

6. Melons:

• Believe it or not, melons can also be grown vertically. Sling the young fruits in hammocks or use sturdy trellises to support their growth. This method keeps melons off the ground and prevents rotting.

7. Eggplants:

• Eggplants can become top-heavy when laden with fruit. A trellis system ensures they grow straight and prevents them from bending or breaking under their own weight.

8. Pumpkins:

• Pumpkins can be grown on a trellis or arch system. You can train the pumpkin to grow up and as the fruit becomes heavier, the stem gets stronger naturally! Some will net the pumpkins but we have never had to do that. Choose a smaller variety like sugar pumpkins or moranga. 

9. Gourds:

If you're into decorative gardening, gourds are a fantastic choice. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be trained to climb trellises, creating a stunning vertical display. Decorate your table with your homegrown gourds!

10. Herbs:

Don't forget about herbs! They don’t need a trellis but can be planted in a vertical garden design. Many herbs, like basil, mint, and thyme, are perfect for vertical gardening. Plant them in hanging pots, wall-mounted containers, or stacked planters for easy access to fresh herbs in your kitchen.

Types of Trellises

Now that you're excited to start your vertical vegetable garden, let's talk about trellis options. Choosing the right trellis not only supports your plants but also adds a decorative element to your garden. We stay away from plastic netting and focus on durability and longetvity. Here are some trellis options to consider:

1. Wooden Trellises:

• Wooden trellises provide a natural and rustic look to your garden. They are sturdy and can be customized to fit your space and style. We suggest doing the structure in wood but having metal trellising for your plants to grow up to last longer.

2. Metal Trellises:

• Metal trellises are durable and come in various designs, from ornate to minimalist. They can withstand the elements and are excellent for supporting heavy crops like melons, pumpkins or squash.

5. Wall-Mounted Trellises:

• If you have limited ground space, consider wall-mounted trellises. They allow you to grow vertically against a wall or fence, making the most of your available area. You can make it a DIY project with old wood pallets or hang baskets/pots on a fence.

Remember that proper anchoring and support for your trellises are essential to ensure they can handle the weight of your crops. Additionally, choose trellises that match the specific needs of your plants, considering factors like height, weight, and space.

That was a lot of information to take in! Vertical gardening is a game-changer for those of us with limited garden space or a desire to add a unique touch to our outdoor areas. With the right crops and trellis options, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, homegrown vegetables while turning your garden into a living work of art. So, roll up your sleeves, get those trellises in place, and start growing vertically. Your taste buds—and your garden—will thank you!

Happy vertical gardening!

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