How to Grow Vegetables in a Window

Overview

Windows are wonderful spaces to grow container gardens. They have ample sunlight, a moderate temperature, and, if opened, all the fresh air a plant could ask for. Creative use of space can turn a window into your source for fresh vegetables. As an added bonus, you can start your vegetables much earlier than you would normally be able to if you were planting directly in the soil outdoors.

Step 1

Observe your window for a few days before you begin your window garden. About how many hours of light does it receive? Does it get morning, afternoon or all day light? Choose your vegetables accordingly.

Step 2

Assemble your containers. Commercially available window planters can be affixed to the window inside just as easily as they can outside. Hanging pots can make use of the space at the top of the window, and tiny seedlings can be perched upon the seal. If you have an array of containers rather than one window planter, consider setting a table in front of your window.

Step 3

Fill your container with about an inch of gravel. This will create well aerated and well drained soil, and prevent rot that is possible from the accumulation of water at the bottom of containers. Fill the container or containers with potting soil.

Step 4

Plant your vegetables accordingly. Tomatoes don't like shallow pots, but would do just fine in a 10 gallon bucket. Peppers are temperamental about getting enough heat and humidity. Each vegetable likes to have its own "personal space", which should be indicated on the seed packet.

Step 5

Hang vine vegetables in containers affixed to the ceiling or the window itself by way of hooks or a hammered in nail. The vines will trail down the window and make optimal usage of your space. Tomato vines, cucumbers and even some pumpkins can be grown this way.

Step 6

Ensure that your vegetables receive the correct amount of water each day. Automatic houseplant waterers are available for this purpose, but a plain old watering can can serve the same function. Plants should be watered until the soil is thoroughly moistened, but not soaked.

Step 7

Fertilize your plants on a regular basis with compost or a mixture of commercially available vegetable fertilizer. Container gardens lose nutrients quicker than in the ground gardens because of the frequent watering they need to maintain a healthy balance.