14 Vegetables You Can Grow in 5-Gallon Buckets for a Space-Saving Garden
If you’re short on space but still want a thriving vegetable garden, 5-gallon buckets are the perfect solution! They allow you to grow a surprising variety of vegetables, even in small areas like balconies, patios, or tiny backyards. Here are 14 vegetables that grow exceptionally well in these compact containers:
1 – Mustard Greens
Many people mistake mustard greens for something related to mustard sauce—but they’re actually leafy greens with a peppery, slightly bitter flavor. They grow well in cooler conditions and can be easily planted from seeds in mid-spring.
2 – Cucumbers
Craving juicy cucumbers? You can plant up to three cucumber plants in a single 5-gallon bucket! Just wait until after the last frost, and they’ll thrive with minimal maintenance.
3 – Squash
Though squash plants need space to spread, they can still flourish in a bucket—especially smaller varieties like zucchini. Plant seeds after the last frost and enjoy homegrown squash in no time!
4 – Eggplant
Eggplants love well-draining soil and regular feeding. Start seeds 8-10 weeks before the last frost, and keep them protected from cold temperatures.
5 – Bok Choy
This cool-weather vegetable grows beautifully in a bucket, as long as it gets plenty of water. The deep container helps maintain moisture for those crisp, tender leaves.
6 – Broccoli
Yes, even broccoli can be bucket-grown! It needs deep soil and lots of sunlight. Plant it in early spring for a fall harvest.
7 – Potatoes
A single 5-gallon bucket can produce 2-3 pounds of potatoes! Just add soil as the plants grow, and you’ll be digging up your own spuds in no time.
8 – Kale
Kale actually tastes better after frost! Plant it 3-6 weeks before the last frost, and enjoy its rich flavor throughout the season.
9 – Spinach
Spinach thrives in cooler temperatures, so planting it 5-7 weeks before the last frost is ideal. You can fit 18-20 spinach plants in one bucket if densely planted!
10 – Peas
Peas are low-maintenance climbers that love growing in compact spaces. For best results, plant them 6-8 weeks before the last frost and provide a trellis or stake for support.
11 – Carrots
Since buckets are deep, they’re great for growing root vegetables like carrots. Plant seeds in early fall, allowing a light frost to enhance their natural sweetness.
12 – Tomatoes
Tomatoes love warm, well-watered environments. Start seeds 8-10 weeks before the last frost, and keep the soil moist with plenty of mulch for juicy, flavorful tomatoes.
13 – Onions
You might not expect it, but a single 5-gallon bucket can hold up to 10 onions! Plant bulbs 8-10 weeks before the last frost for a rewarding summer harvest.
14 – Peppers
Peppers are one of the easiest vegetables to grow in a bucket. Just make sure to drill drainage holes and plant seeds after the last frost.
Final Tips for Growing in 5-Gallon Buckets
✔ Drainage is key – Always drill holes in the bottom to prevent root rot.
✔ Use quality soil – A nutrient-rich, well-draining potting mix will give your plants the best start.
✔ Water consistently – Some veggies, like tomatoes and peppers, need frequent watering to thrive.
✔ Maximize space – Consider vertical gardening techniques for climbing plants like peas and cucumbers.
With the right care, you can grow an entire garden using just 5-gallon buckets—no big backyard needed! What will you be planting first?