How to Grow Food in an Apartment
Apartment gardening works if you have 4–6 hours of light (or a grow light), containers, and the right varieties. Start with herbs and lettuce.
You don’t need outdoor space. You need a windowsill and 3 pots.
What to Grow
On a windowsill:
- Herbs (basil, parsley, chives, mint)
- Lettuce (loose-leaf)
- Radishes
On a balcony:
- Everything in the Small Space Kit
- Cherry tomatoes
- Peppers
With a grow light:
- Anything, year-round
Setup
- Pots: 6-8 inch with drainage
- Soil: Potting mix
- Light: 4-6 hours natural, or grow light
- Water: When top inch is dry
- Airflow: Small fan on low
Common Questions
What if I have no balcony? Windowsill herbs and greens work.
Can I grow tomatoes indoors? Dwarf varieties with a grow light, yes.
How do I deal with low light? Grow light. 14-16 hours per day.
Will my landlord mind? Pots on a windowsill are usually fine.
What about smell? Herbs are pleasant. Soil can smell if overwatered.
Can I grow year-round? Yes, with a grow light.