5 Secrets to Successfully Growing Plants in Crates
Have you looked at images of rustic wooden crates with plants growing in them and wanted to try it? Crates are a creative and space-saving way of growing plants in your home or apartment. Whether you have a small balcony, a sunny windowsill, or a compact terrace, using old wooden or plastic crates to grow plants is both practical and stylish. With the right steps, you can turn almost any crate into a thriving mini garden. But you need to get it right to ensure your mini garden thrives. Here are five essential secrets to help you get started and grow healthy, vibrant plants in crates.
1. The right crate
The first secret to success in crate gardening is selecting the right container. Look for crates that are sturdy and well-ventilated. Wooden fruit or vegetable crates are popular choices because they’re breathable and biodegradable, but strong plastic crates also work well, especially in humid or rainy climates.
Ensure the crate is deep enough to accommodate the plants you plan to grow. While herbs and leafy greens can do well in shallow crates, deeper-rooted vegetables may require more space. If you’re reusing crates, ensure they’re clean and haven’t stored any harmful chemicals. To extend the life of wooden crates, consider lining them with landscape fabric or coconut coir sheets to retain soil while still allowing water to drain.
2. Proper drainage
Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot and other water-related issues. If your crate doesn’t already have holes in the bottom, drill several evenly spaced holes to allow excess water to escape. Line the bottom of the crate with a layer of gravel, small pebbles, or broken terracotta pieces to further improve drainage.
To prevent moisture from pooling under your crate, raise it slightly using bricks, pot stands, or wooden blocks. This will keep the crate well-aerated and make it easier to move around if needed.
3. A nutrient-rich potting mix
Unlike regular garden beds, crates have limited space, so you need a light, nutrient-dense soil mix that won’t compact easily. Avoid using plain garden soil, which can be too heavy and may block airflow.
A good basic mix includes:
- 1 part compost
- 1 part cocopeat or coconut coir (for moisture retention)
- 1 part sand or perlite (for drainage and aeration)
Adding organic matter, such as well-rotted cow dung or vermicompost, can further enrich the mix. For vegetable crates, topping up the soil with a handful of compost every few weeks will help keep plants growing strong and healthy.
4. Choosing plants that thrive in crates
Not all plants thrive in containers, but many plant varieties do well in crates. Start with herbs like basil, mint, coriander, or thyme. Leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, and fenugreek are also excellent choices for shallow crates.
If your crate is deeper, you can try growing compact vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, dwarf chillies, or radishes. For added beauty and biodiversity, mix in flowering plants like marigolds or nasturtiums, which also help repel pests and attract pollinators.
Be sure to group plants with similar sunlight and watering needs. Crates can be easily moved, so take advantage of this flexibility to ensure your plants get enough light throughout the day.
5. Regular feeding and care for your plants
Since crates are relatively small containers, the soil can dry out quickly, and nutrients may deplete more rapidly. Water your plants consistently, especially during hot or dry weather. Stick your finger an inch into the soil—if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Feed your plants every 10 to 15 days with organic liquid fertilisers, such as compost tea, diluted seaweed extract, or homemade banana peel water. These natural boosters will support healthy growth and flowering. Mulching the soil surface with dry leaves or straw helps retain moisture and keeps weeds in check.
Crate gardening is a fantastic way to make the most of limited space while adding greenery and charm to your home. With the tips mentioned above, you’ll be well on your way to creating a thriving crate garden. Start small, experiment, and, above all, enjoy the process of growing plants in a creative and sustainable way.
