Vertical gardening in summer is my favorite kind of gardening—less bending, more harvesting, and a whole lot of wow-factor. Once I started growing up instead of out, my tiny garden turned into a serious producer.
Some crops absolutely thrive on a trellis or tower, and they look pretty cool doing it too. I’ve rounded up my go-to summer picks, plus a few bonus ones that might surprise you. If you’re short on space but big on garden dreams, this list is for you!
1. Cherry Tomatoes
Ever tried picking juicy red cherry tomatoes right from the vine? These little gems are perfect for vertical gardening! Their vines love to climb, and they need a sunny spot to flourish. Delicious in salads or just as snacks, they reward you with a sweet tangy taste!
Support them with a trellis, and remember to water them regularly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and you’ll have a beautiful harvest all summer long!
2. Cucumbers
Crunchy and refreshing, cucumbers are the stars of vertical gardens. They climb with vigor, and their trailing vines add an aesthetic appeal. Not only do they save space, but they also keep the fruit clean and straight. Use a sturdy trellis to give them the support they need.
Ensure they get plenty of water, especially during flowering. The combination of sun and moisture will give you crisp cucumbers ready to enjoy!
3. Bell Peppers
Colorful and sweet, bell peppers brighten any vertical garden. Plant them in a sunny spot, and these beauties will reward you with vivid hues. Whether you prefer red, yellow, or green, their crisp texture and flavor are unbeatable.
Make sure to use sturdy stakes for supporting the plants. Water them deeply but not too frequently. With well-drained soil, watch your peppers flourish in radiant colors.
4. Peas
Snap, shell, or snow—peas are perfect for hanging gardens. They gracefully climb trellises, producing pods that are easy to pick. These green pearls are a delight in stir-fries or straight from the garden.
Provide a trellis or netting for them to latch onto. Keep an eye on the watering; they prefer cooler weather and consistent moisture to thrive beautifully!
5. Zucchini
Think zucchinis are too big for vertical gardens? Think again! These mighty plants can be trained to grow upwards, saving precious space. Their large leaves and yellow blossoms add a tropical feel to your garden.
Use strong supports to hold the weight of the fruits. Keep them well-watered, especially during dry spells, and prune excess leaves for better sun exposure.
6. Strawberries
Sweet and juicy, strawberries are a delightful addition to vertical gardens. Hanging in pots or towers, they create a cascade of flavor and color. They’re easy to pick and perfect for summer desserts. Use hanging containers or vertical towers to plant them.
Ensure good drainage and regular watering. With a little love, your strawberries will sweeten up your garden and your palate!
7. Lettuce
Crisp and leafy, lettuce is a vertical gardening favorite! It grows quickly and can be harvested consistently. Perfect for fresh summer salads, its green leaves are packed with flavor.
Grow them in wall planters or vertical beds. Keep them in partial shade during the hottest months, and water regularly to enjoy fresh greens all season!
8. Pole Beans
Tall and proud, pole beans are born climbers. Their vines will stretch skyward, producing a bountiful harvest. They’re perfect for small spaces and offer a delicious crunch.
Use tall poles or stakes to support their growth. Water them evenly, and they’ll reward you with a continuous supply of fresh beans all summer!
9. Spinach
Nutritious and versatile, spinach is perfect for vertical gardening. Its compact growth makes it ideal for pots or wall planters.
Packed with vitamins, it’s great for salads or cooking. Plant them in well-draining soil, and provide partial shade if the sun is too strong. Keep the soil moist for tender, juicy leaves to enjoy!
10. Herbs
Aromatic and diverse, herbs bring flavor and fragrance to vertical gardens. From basil to mint, they’re a gardener’s delight. Their compact size fits perfectly in wall planters, making them easy to snip.
Ensure they get plenty of sunlight and regular trimming to encourage growth. With minimal care, your herbs will thrive and elevate your dishes!
11. Eggplants
Glossy and elegant, eggplants make a statement in vertical gardens. These purple beauties enjoy climbing and will reward you with abundant fruit.
Their rich flavor is fantastic grilled or baked. Use a strong trellis to support their growth. Water regularly and provide ample sun for plump, juicy eggplants ready to harvest!
12. Gourds
Quirky and colorful, gourds add whimsy to vertical gardening. Their unique shapes and colors make them a visual delight. Perfect for crafting or as decor, they’re easy to grow.
Use strong support to handle their weight as they climb. Regular watering and lots of sun will help them thrive and entertain your garden space!
13. Melons
Sweet and juicy, melons are an unexpected treat in vertical gardens. Training them to climb saves space and keeps the fruit clean. Varieties like cantaloupe and watermelon can thrive upwards.
Use slings to support heavy fruits. Ensure they get plenty of sun and water, and enjoy a refreshing summer harvest!
14. Radishes
Fast-growing and spicy, radishes are perfect for vertical planters. Their quick turnaround makes them a fun project for all ages. They add a zesty crunch to salads and snacks.
Use vertical bags or towers for planting. Keep them in cool, moist conditions for best results, and enjoy their peppery warmth in no time!
15. Squash
Vibrant and versatile, squash brings color and flavor to vertical gardens. Their sprawling nature can be managed with vertical supports. From zucchini to butternut, they offer a variety of flavors.
Use sturdy trellises for support and prune leaves to improve air circulation. With enough sun and water, your squash will thrive and delight!