Vegetable gardens are an excellent way to grow more food. If you have limited space, you can grow your vegetables and fruits vertically using a trellis. Vertical growth not only encourages growth and lowers the likelihood of pest infestations and diseases.
Some of the common climbing fruits and vegetables include:
Cucumbers
If you own a vertical garden, cucumbers are a great option. These climbing vegetables are easy to maintain since they are watered twice weekly and are less prone to diseases and pests.
However, they require harvesting regularly to promote growth and maintain an ideal weight. Also, cucumbers should be grown on a trellis to protect the plant from collapsing. A teepee-like structure constructed using three poles can also protect it from toppling.
Beans
Beans are great because they can be added to cooked dishes or eaten fresh in salads. And, they can be grown vertically in a container or in the ground with access to partial or full sunlight.
Pole beans, however, require a strong structure of bamboo stakes or wire fencing. Moreover, ensure to water them twice and harvest the beans once the pods have grown full and plump.
Bitter Melon
These vine vegetables are tall and thrive in areas with tropical and subtropical climates. Bitter melons should be planted on a solid trellis measuring at least 6 feet tall. Some gardeners use a hammock or a horizontal sling.
Peas
Peas are climbing vegetables that are can be planted in early spring or in fall. There are different varieties of peas, with some growing up to three feet tall. Peas can also grow heavy when they mature, requiring a sturdy support structure. They can be hung on a netting, a teepee, or on a trellis.
Tomatoes
Although they are not natural climbers, tomatoes are effortless to grow in a vertical garden. You can either plant them on the ground or on a counter and positioned them in a sunny spot. Grow your tomatoes using a trellis increases sun exposure, holds the plant in place, and lowers the risk of diseases.
Pumpkin
Small pumpkins such as ‘bumpinks’ and “baby boos” need the right support to grow vertically. It can be planted in containers and should be planted to climb a steady structure. You can tie a hammock or slick under the pumpkins to support their weight.
Malabar Spinach
This spinach variety grows in partial shade or full sun to yield a plentiful crop. It grows well on a trellis and you just need to thread the tendrils on the support structure.
Passionfruit
Passionfruits are natural climbers that produce a bountiful harvest when grown in a sunny position with the right temperatures. Still, since these fruits are perennials, they require a permanent structure to promote healthy growth. Frequent watering and harvesting are also encouraged.
Grapes
Grapes are climbing fruits that can last for decades with proper maintenance. Being more stable, grapes require a permanent support structure like an arbor rather than an arch or a trellis. It is also worth noting that grapes are perennial and may take several years to establish.
Strawberries
Strawberries do well in full sun and require plenty of water daily. You can manipulate these fruits to climb the support structure to hold its long runners. You should also remember that harvesting should be done once the fruits ripen.
Kiwi
With a sturdy support system, kiwi fruits grow well in a vertical garden with full sun exposure. Both the male and female plants of this fruit must be grown together to yield fruit. The main stem should climb up the trellis up to 6 feet tall.
Tips for Growing Vegetables and Fruits Vertically
- Establish a strong support structure.
- Use a trellis to offer stability to the supporting wall.
- Use a slick or hammock to offer heavy support for heavy vegetables.
- Ensure adequate space between vines to promote air circulation.
- Use quality soil and fertilizer to facilitate healthy growth.
