Best Fruits to Grow in Containers: A Guide for Small-Space Gardeners
If you have limited yard space but long to grow your own fruit trees and fruit, you’re in luck! Wide varieties of fruit trees have made this a possibility for small-space gardeners like myself.
If your small backyard, patio, or balcony gets enough sunlight (6 hours is ideal), then container gardening can help you grow a fruit tree and other fruits, like berries.
Let’s explore the best fruits to grow in containers, what you need to get started, and tips for keeping your plants healthy and productive.
Let’s get started!
Getting Started: What You Need to Know
I know you must be excited to start purchasing plants, but there are a few things to know before you shop!
Unlike traditional in-ground gardening, potted plants have unique needs that can make or break their success.
Choosing the Right Container
The size of your container matters!
Fruit plants need plenty of room for their roots to grow, so a deep and wide pot is best.
Generally, aim for at least a 5-gallon container for small fruits like strawberries and a 15- to 20-gallon container for larger fruit trees like citrus or figs.
Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot.
The Best Soil for Fruit Plants
Skip the garden soil—potted plants need a high-quality potting mix that drains well but retains enough moisture for healthy growth. Many fruit plants, like blueberries, also benefit from slightly acidic soil, so you may need to adjust the pH accordingly.
Sunlight & Watering Needs
Most fruiting plants need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day, so place them in a sunny spot. When it comes to watering, consistency is key! Containers dry out faster than garden beds, so check the soil regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
Pollination Considerations
Some fruit plants, like lemons and figs, are self-pollinating, meaning they don’t need another plant to produce fruit. Others, like some apple and cherry trees, need a second plant for cross-pollination. If space is an issue, choose self-pollinating or dwarf varieties to make things easier.
Best Fruits to Grow in Containers or Buckets
Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into the best fruits for container gardening!
Citrus Fruits
Citrus trees are among the most popular choices for container gardening because they’re compact, evergreen, and produce delicious fruit.
- Lemons – Meyer lemons are a favorite because they’re sweeter than regular lemons and grow well in pots.
- Limes – Try a Key lime or Bearss lime for fresh, tangy fruit perfect for drinks and cooking.
- Oranges – Calamondin oranges are a great choice since they’re small and highly ornamental.
Citrus trees love warmth, so if you live in a colder climate, bring them indoors during the winter.
Berries
Berries are ideal for container gardening because they don’t take up much space, and many varieties are bred specifically for pots.
- Strawberries – Perfect for hanging baskets or small pots, strawberries are easy to grow and produce fruit quickly.
- Blueberries – Choose a dwarf variety like ‘Jelly Bean’ or ‘Sunshine Blue,’ and make sure to use acidic soil.
- Raspberries & Blackberries – Dwarf varieties, such as ‘Raspberry Shortcake,’ don’t need staking and grow well in pots. Experiment!
Stone Fruits (Peaches, Nectarines, and Cherries)
If you’ve ever dreamed of picking fresh peaches or cherries from your own tree, it’s possible with the right variety!
- Dwarf Peaches & Nectarines – Varieties like ‘Bonanza’ and ‘Nectar Babe’ produce full-sized fruit on small, manageable trees.
- Cherries – Look for self-pollinating dwarf varieties like ‘Stella’ if you only have room for one tree.
Stone fruits need plenty of sun and a large container to thrive, but they’re well worth the effort!
Tropical Fruits
If you love unique fruits, these tropical options are surprisingly easy to grow in pots.
- Figs – Dwarf varieties like ‘Petite Negra’ or ‘Little Miss Figgy’ thrive in containers and produce delicious fruit.
- Pomegranates – Compact varieties such as ‘Nana’ are perfect for small spaces
- Bananas – Dwarf banana trees, like ‘Dwarf Cavendish,’ can grow in large containers
- Avocados – They do well in containers and are easy to start as small plants!
I have two aunts who grow pomegranates in their backyard, and the amount of fruit they produce is incredible.
There is always an abundance of pomegranates coming from their homes; they share with the rest of the family, and it’s a treat every fall.
Grapes & Other Climbing Fruits
If you have a trellis or railing, why not grow climbing fruit?
- Grapes – Compact grape varieties like ‘Pixie’ do well in pots and can be trained to grow up a small trellis.
- Passionfruit – This fast-growing vine thrives in containers but needs support to climb.
My mom grows passionfruit on a fence in her backyard. She says it’s easy to grow once it’s established! Plus, I’ve seen the blooms on this vine—they’re stunning!
It’s so unique and always a pleasure to see. The fruit tastes fantastic, too.
Another plus of growing passionfruit is that the vines and foliage offer privacy as it grows and covers that area.
Tips for Keeping Your Container Fruit Plants Happy
Growing fruit in pots is rewarding, but it does require some maintenance. Here are a few tips to keep your plants thriving:
Pruning & Maintenance
Regular pruning helps keep container plants manageable and encourages better fruit production. Remove any dead or overcrowded branches to allow airflow and sunlight to reach the plant.
Winter Care & Overwintering
Some fruit plants, like citrus and figs, are sensitive to frost.
If you live in a colder climate, move them indoors or insulate the pots with bubble wrap or burlap during the winter months.
Pest & Disease Prevention
Container plants are less susceptible to pests than garden plants, but aphids, spider mites, and fruit flies can still be a problem.
Regularly check for signs of pests and use organic treatments like neem oil if needed.
Repotting & Refreshing Soil
Over time, soil loses nutrients, so it’s important to refresh or replace it every couple of years. When repotting, gently loosen the roots and add fresh potting mix to keep your plant healthy.
Growing fruit in containers is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy fresh produce, even in a small space.
Whether you choose strawberries, citrus trees, or exotic figs, there’s a container-friendly fruit for every gardener! Don’t be afraid to try different plants and see what grows best for you in your area.
With the right care and attention, your potted fruit plants will provide beauty, greenery, and delicious homegrown treats for years to come.