Hanging baskets are usually packed with flowers, but there’s no rule saying they have to be. If you’re short on space or just want something a little more useful than petunias, edible plants can look just as good—and you get something to snack on, too.
From trailing herbs to strawberries and even compact veggies, there are a bunch of tasty plants that grow really well above ground. They spill over the sides, bring texture and color, and some of them bloom too—so you’re not really giving anything up. It’s just a smarter way to get more out of the space you already have.
Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are a popular choice for hanging baskets due to their compact size and prolific yield. These tiny, sweet tomatoes are perfect for snacking or adding a burst of flavor to salads. Their trailing vines create a stunning visual display, making them both an aesthetic and culinary delight.
Grow them in a sunny spot and ensure they have adequate support as they grow. Regular watering and occasional feeding with tomato fertilizer will keep them thriving.
Did you know that cherry tomatoes are believed to have originated in Peru? Their vibrant red hue is a delightful addition to any hanging garden.
Strawberries
Imagine plucking fresh strawberries from your very own hanging basket. These juicy fruits are not only delicious but also provide a beautiful splash of red against green foliage. Perfect for small spaces, strawberry plants thrive in hanging baskets where they can cascade freely.
Place them in a sunny location to maximize fruit production. Regular watering and the occasional feed of potassium-rich fertilizer will help keep the berries sweet and plentiful.
Interestingly, strawberries are the only fruit with seeds on the outside, and they are part of the rose family.
Herbs – Basil
Basil is an aromatic herb that adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen. Growing basil in a hanging basket allows its lush leaves to spill over the sides, creating a full and fragrant display.
Position the basket in a sunny spot to encourage healthy growth. Keep the soil slightly moist and pinch off flowers to maintain the plant’s energy in leaf production.
With its origins in India, basil has been cultivated for over 5,000 years and is a staple in many culinary dishes around the world.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not just ornamental; their leaves and flowers are edible and add a peppery kick to salads. The vibrant blossoms and round leaves create an eye-catching display in hanging baskets.
These plants thrive in poorer soils, so no need for high-quality compost. Water them sparingly and enjoy the vibrant colors and unique flavors they bring.
Interestingly, nasturtiums are native to the Andes Mountains and have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries.
Mint
Mint is a hardy herb that grows well in hanging baskets, adding a refreshing scent to any space. Its cascading growth habit makes it ideal for hanging displays.
Place your mint in partial shade and keep the soil moist to prevent wilting. Regular pruning will encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming leggy.
Did you know that mint has been used for centuries in various cultures for its medicinal and culinary properties? From teas to sauces, it’s a versatile herb worth growing.
Spinach
Spinach is a nutritious leafy green that thrives in cooler temperatures, making it perfect for hanging baskets. Its compact growth allows it to be easily harvested in small spaces.
Ensure the basket receives partial shade to protect the leaves from scorching sun. Consistent moisture and fertile soil will promote tender leaves.
Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, making it a healthful addition to any meal. Its origins trace back to Persia, having been cultivated for over 2,000 years.
Chives
Chives are an easy-to-grow herb that brings a mild onion flavor to dishes. Their slender, hollow stems and purple flowers make them a decorative addition to hanging baskets.
Chives prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Keep the soil well-drained and harvest the stems regularly to promote new growth.
These herbs have been used since ancient times for both culinary and medicinal purposes. In addition to their flavor, the flowers are edible and make a charming garnish.
Lettuce
Growing lettuce in a hanging basket is a fantastic way to have fresh greens at your fingertips. Choose a cut-and-come-again variety for continuous harvests of crisp, tender leaves.
Position your basket in a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent the leaves from becoming bitter.
Lettuce has been cultivated since the time of the ancient Egyptians, proving its enduring popularity as a salad staple. Its various colors and textures make it a visually appealing choice for hanging arrangements.
Peas
Peas are an excellent vegetable to grow in hanging baskets, thanks to their trailing vines and sweet pods. The plants are not only productive but also add a touch of elegance with their slender tendrils.
Ensure the basket is in a sunny location and use a lightweight, well-draining soil mix. Regular watering is essential to keep the plants flourishing.
Interestingly, peas have been cultivated since the early Bronze Age, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune in many cultures. They are a delightful addition to any hanging display.
Radishes
Radishes are a quick-growing root vegetable perfect for hanging baskets. Their crisp texture and peppery flavor make them a zesty addition to salads.
Choose a basket with enough depth for the roots to develop properly. Position it in a sunny area and water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
Radishes are one of the oldest cultivated crops, originating in Southeast Asia. Their fast growth and unique taste make them an exciting choice for container gardening.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers can be a surprising but rewarding choice for hanging baskets. The vines’ trailing nature and delicate tendrils create a lush, tropical look.
Choose a smaller variety, such as bush cucumbers, for the best results in a confined space. Ensure the basket is in full sun and keep the soil consistently moist.
Cucumbers have been cultivated for over 3,000 years and were highly regarded in ancient civilizations. Their refreshing crunch and versatility make them a delightful addition to any garden.
Parsley
Parsley is a versatile herb that thrives in hanging baskets, providing fresh flavor to dishes and a lush green display. Its compact growth and delicate leaves make it a perfect fit for limited spaces.
Place the basket in a sunny or partially shaded area and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Regular harvesting will encourage bushier growth and prolong the plant’s life.
Did you know that parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K? Its health benefits and culinary uses have made it a staple in kitchens worldwide.
Thyme
Thyme is a hardy herb known for its aromatic leaves and small pink flowers. It’s a perfect candidate for hanging baskets, where its trailing growth habit can be fully appreciated.
Grow thyme in a sunny spot and ensure the soil is well-drained. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Thyme has been a symbol of courage and admiration since ancient times. Its subtle flavor enhances a wide range of dishes, making it a valuable addition to any culinary garden.
Kale
Kale is a nutrient-rich leafy green that’s easy to grow in hanging baskets. Its curly leaves provide a striking texture and visual interest.
Place your basket in a spot with full sun to encourage robust leaf production. Regular watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer will ensure healthy growth.
Kale has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages, and is highly valued for its health benefits. Its versatility and vibrant appearance make it an excellent choice for hanging displays.
Oregano
Oregano is a flavorful herb that thrives in hanging baskets, offering a taste of the Mediterranean to your home. Its small leaves and trailing growth habit make it both a practical and decorative choice.
Grow oregano in a sunny spot and ensure the soil is well-draining. Allow the surface to dry between waterings to prevent soggy roots.
Oregano has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, prized for its bold flavor and aromatic qualities. Its versatility makes it a must-have for any culinary enthusiast.
Beans
Beans are a versatile vegetable that can thrive in hanging baskets. Their climbing vines and delicate flowers add height and interest to any garden space.
Ensure your basket receives full sun and uses a lightweight, well-draining soil mix. Regular watering is essential to keep the plants healthy and productive.
Beans have been cultivated for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence dating back to ancient civilizations. Their rich history and dietary benefits make them a valuable addition to any garden.
Beetroot
Beetroot is a root vegetable that can be grown in hanging baskets, providing a unique and colorful addition to your garden. Their vibrant red roots and lush green leaves make for an eye-catching display.
Position your basket in a sunny location and ensure the soil is well-draining. Regular watering will support healthy root development.
Beetroots have been cultivated since ancient Roman times, appreciated for their earthy flavor and nutritional value. Their striking appearance and culinary versatility make them a fantastic choice for container gardening.
Cilantro (Coriander)
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a fragrant herb that adds zest to dishes with its distinct flavor. Growing cilantro in hanging baskets allows the feathery leaves to spill over attractively.
Place the basket in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade to prevent bolting. Keep the soil consistently moist for the best growth.
Cilantro has been used in cooking for thousands of years, with its origins in the Mediterranean and Western Asia. Its unique taste and versatility make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a hardy, aromatic herb that thrives in hanging baskets. Its needle-like leaves and robust scent add a Mediterranean touch to any setting.
Place the basket in full sun and ensure the soil is well-draining. Allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Rosemary has been revered since ancient times for its culinary and medicinal properties. Its ability to enhance dishes with its distinct flavor makes it a staple in many kitchens.
Dill
Dill is an aromatic herb known for its feathery leaves and distinctive flavor. It’s an excellent choice for hanging baskets, where its light, airy foliage can be fully appreciated.
Grow dill in a sunny spot and keep the soil consistently moist. Regular harvesting will promote bushier growth and prolong the plant’s life.
Dill has been used since ancient Egyptian times for its culinary and medicinal benefits. Its fresh flavor pairs well with fish, potatoes, and various other dishes, making it a valuable addition to any herb garden.
Sage
Sage is a robust herb with velvety leaves and a strong aroma, making it a great candidate for hanging baskets. Its cascading growth adds both texture and fragrance to your garden.
Place the basket in full sun and ensure the soil is well-drained. Allow the surface to dry between waterings to prevent soggy roots.
Sage has a rich history, having been used for centuries for its medicinal and culinary properties. Its unique flavor complements a variety of dishes, making it a beloved herb in many kitchens.
Arugula
Arugula, also known as rocket, is a peppery leafy green that adds zing to salads and dishes. Its compact growth makes it perfect for hanging baskets, allowing the tender leaves to cascade beautifully.
Place your basket in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade to prevent wilting. Keep the soil consistently moist for the best flavor.
Arugula has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, appreciated for its spicy taste and nutritional benefits. Its vibrant green leaves and quick growth make it an exciting addition to any garden.