8 of the Prettiest Fruits and Vegetables to Grow in Containers

Kale

Nearly any variety of kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) adds a decorative element to a vegetable garden, says Scott Zona, program manager at North Carolina State University. “Kale comes in cultivars with various textures, like frilly leaves, and colors, such as red or blue varieties with a waxy ‘bloom’ on the leaves,” he says. “Growers can harvest just a few leaves at a time, so the plants are attractive all season long.”

Kale is a cold-hardy vegetable that can withstand early spring temperatures and autumn’s first frosts, adding three-season color and interest to containers. Laura Matter of the Tilth Alliance likes the Dazzling Blue and Scotch Blue kale varieties for their subtle color and textural leaves. For vibrant purple stems that accent green leaves, opt for the Rainbow variety.

Zucchini

From its oversized foliage to its dark green fruits and vivid blooms, every growing phase of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) has its own splashy style, says Elin Harryson of plant care app Planta. “Compact or bush varieties are especially well-suited to containers, where they can serve as a focal point in an edible garden display,” she says.

Use a 10-gallon container filled with rich, moist soil for vigorous growth and continuous fruit production, and set it next to a pot of nasturtiums, which attract essential pollinators. “Harvest zucchini when the fruits are young and tender to encourage the plant to keep producing throughout the season,”

Rainbow Chard

While Swiss chard’s delicately ruffled leaves are an eye-catching textural accent on their own, it’s rainbow chard’s (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) striking, colorful stalks that make a major visual statement in containers. “The veins could be bright red, pale pink, yellow, or white,” says Matter. “Some of the more colorful types tend to be smaller, so they’re really good for container gardens.”

Plant in full sun or partial shade, and harvest the leaves continuously by cutting the oldest leaves at the base of the stem, allowing smaller leaves to reach full size. Never take more than one-third of the plant at once.

Peppers

Whether you prefer them fiery or tame, pepper plants (Capsicum annuum) are an eye-catching way to invigorate a dull container garden. “All peppers stand out in container gardens because they combine unique shapes with bright colors,” says Harryson. “Habanero plants have a short, shrub-like form with peppers that ripen from green to bright orange.”

A 3-gallon—or bigger—container gives the plants room to grow, while full sun and regular watering allow them to thrive. “Their compact growth habit makes them ideal for patio containers,” says Harryson. “Consistent watering is key, but avoid letting the soil stay too wet. Pair with a container of dwarf marigolds to repel pests.”

Strawberries

Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) produce cascading runners that look beautiful trailing out of hanging baskets or spilling over terracotta containers. The white blossoms offer spring interest, while the vibrant red berries provide a pop of summer color.

Okra

Heat-loving okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) adds subtle shapes and vibrant yellow color to your containers even during summer’s hottest days, says Harryson. “Okra brings a completely different kind of beauty to the container garden with its tall, architectural stems and large, hibiscus-like yellow flowers,” she says. “Even before pods form, okra can function as a dramatic focal point in a pot, especially in large containers where its upright structure can shine.”

Plant okra in full sun and harvest pods regularly when they are 2 to 4 inches long. “Pair with a container of miniature zinnias to add color and attract pollinators,”

Bok Choy

The round leaves, rich colors, and tall stems of bok choy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) add brightness and texture to containers. Matter recommends deep purple Violetta and curving Shuko for their colorful, sculptural look.

Plant in partial to full sun areas in early spring and sow again in fall for a double harvest. “These are going to harvest out pretty quickly,” which gives you the opportunity to update your containers throughout the season.

Cucamelon

Cucamelons, with their heart-shaped leaves and variegated green fruits, take center stage in your garden. “The unexpected cucamelons, which look like mini watermelons, are a tart addition to your pickling lineup, while the vines are a decorative accent to full sun gardens,”. Place a vertical trellis in the container to support the vines.