Planters and Plant Stands

Planter boxes on legs and plant stands for herbs and small potted plants, on a patio, a porch, a balcony or by a sunny window.

Check the soil depth first. On a patio or other hard surface the roots have nowhere else to go, and beans, cucumbers and leafy greens need at least 8 inches of soil, so a shallower planter box suits herbs and flowers. For pots, pick rosemary, thyme, chives, parsley, Greek oregano or bush basil; miniature basils such as Dwarf Greek and Spicy Globe suit containers too.

Every container needs drainage holes and a loose, well-drained mix. Outdoor container herbs may need water every day in hot weather.

Buying guide: grow bags, with the bag size each crop needs.