No Garden? Grow Fruits in Small Containers Fast

Fast-Growing Fruits for Small Spaces

Creating a thriving garden doesn’t require years of patience. Some fruits can be harvested in as little as two months, making them ideal for those with limited space or time. Whether you have a sunny backyard, patio, deck, or porch, you can grow a variety of fruits in small containers. With the right care and conditions, you’ll soon enjoy a mini farmer’s market right outside your home.

Strawberries

Strawberries are a perfect choice for beginners due to their shallow root systems, which allow them to thrive in small pots. To ensure healthy growth, plant the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) just above the soil line to avoid rot. They need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily and should be kept consistently moist.

• Fruit growing time: 2–3 months from seeds or 2–4 weeks from a transplant
• USDA zones: 4–9
• Container type: Wide and shallow; ideally with at least a 12-inch diameter and 6-inch depth or 1–2 gallons per plant
• Sun exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-draining, moist, and rich

With proper care, you'll be enjoying fresh strawberries and even making homemade jam in no time.

Gooseberries

Gooseberries offer a tart, mildly sweet flavor that is perfect for pies and desserts. These fast-growing plants can thrive in containers but benefit from staking and pruning to keep them compact and productive. Place them in full sunlight or partial shade with well-draining soil. Using a medium to large pot and regular pruning will encourage upright growth and better harvests.

• Fruit growing time: 2–3 years from seeds and one year from a transplant
• USDA zones: 3–8
• Container type: Medium to large pot
• Sun exposure: Full to partial sunlight
• Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic (pH 6–6.5) soil with organic matter

Dwarf Blueberries

Dwarf blueberries are an excellent option for small spaces. They grow as compact bushes and begin bearing fruit within a few months. Use a potting mix designed for acid-loving plants and consider planting at least two different varieties for better cross-pollination.

• Fruit growing time: 5 to 6 months from seeds or at least 10 weeks from a transplant
• USDA zones: 3–7
• Container type: Well-draining, large container (some can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide)
• Sun exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-draining, rich, acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5)

Meyer Lemon Trees

Meyer lemon trees are a great addition to any small space. They produce fruit faster than other lemon varieties and can be grown in containers. While they don’t require the smallest pots, they can easily fit on a patio. Water them every two to three days or when the soil begins to dry out.

• Fruit growing time: 6 months to 2 years from a transplant and 3–7 years from a seed
• USDA zones: 8–11
• Container type: A well-draining, 15-gallon container
• Sun exposure: Full sun (at least six hours of sunlight per day)
• Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil (pH of 5.5 to 6.5) or a premixed soil for citrus trees

Ground Cherries

Ground cherries are unique, small golden fruits that resemble tiny tomatoes wrapped in papery husks. They are easy to grow and thrive in well-draining soil and full sunlight. They are low-maintenance and can benefit from support structures like tomato cages.

• Fruit growing time: 2–3 months from seeds and around 2 months from transplants
• USDA zones: 4–8
• Container type: 5–7 gallon pot
• Sun exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-draining soil

Dwarf Blackberries

Dwarf blackberry varieties such as Baby Cakes or Little Black Prince are ideal for small spaces. They are easy to maintain and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. Starting with a smaller plant rather than seeds can significantly reduce the waiting time for fruit.

• Fruit growing time: Five to six years from seeds or two to three from a transplant
• USDA zones: 5–9
• Container type: 1 gallon pot
• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-draining, loose, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5) soil

Honeyberries

For those in colder climates, honeyberries are an excellent choice. They are cold-tolerant and can thrive in USDA zones 2–8. They are not as fussy about soil pH as blueberries and can adapt to various soil types. Start with a 3-gallon pot and eventually transfer to a larger container as the plant matures.

• Fruit growing time: 3–5 years from seeds and 1–2 years from transplant
• USDA zones: 2–8
• Container type: 3-gallon pot to start and then increase to 15–20 gallons
• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial sun
• Soil: A variety of well-draining soil, ideally loose, slightly acidic or neutral (pH 5–7.5)

Meet the Experts

• Brian Brigantti is the founder of Red Leaf Ranch and author of Gardening for Abundance.
• Dagny Kream is a gardening expert and content creator.
• Carmen Perr is a gardening expert and content creator.