11 Fruit Plants to Grow in Pots Easily

Forget about needing a massive garden or acres of land to grow your own food. I found out that a few simple pots and a bit of dirt are all it takes to get started.

It feels amazing to walk out to my balcony and grab a fresh snack. These plants are so easy to manage that anyone can start their own mini orchard today.

Lemon

I always keep a lemon tree nearby because the scent of the blossoms is incredible. These trees do wonderfully in pots as long as they get enough warmth. It is so convenient to have fresh citrus ready for cooking or a glass of water whenever I need it.

• Needs a very sunny spot for the best growth.
• Use a pot with plenty of holes for drainage.
• Feed the tree regularly during the growing season.

Lime

Limes are a staple in my kitchen, and growing them in a container is surprisingly simple. They tend to be a bit more sensitive to cold than lemons, so I bring mine inside when it gets chilly. The glossy green leaves look beautiful on any patio.

• Thrives in consistent, warm temperatures.
• Water deeply but let the soil dry out slightly.
• Choose a dwarf variety for smaller containers.

Orange

There is nothing quite like the taste of a sun-warmed orange picked right from the branch. Dwarf orange trees stay small enough for a balcony while still producing sweet fruit. I find that they add a bright, cheerful vibe to my outdoor seating area.

• Requires at least six to eight hours of sun.
• Prune in early spring to keep the shape neat.
• Use a high-quality citrus potting mix.

Apple

I was shocked to learn that I could grow apples without a giant orchard. Columnar apple trees grow straight up like a pillar, making them perfect for tight corners. They produce clusters of fruit along the main trunk, which looks quite unique and saves a lot of space.

• Needs a sunny location to ripen the fruit.
• Two different varieties may be needed for pollination.
• Requires a large, sturdy pot to support the weight.

Fig

Figs are some of the easiest fruits to grow in pots because their roots actually like being a little cramped. I love their unique leaf shape and the way the fruit softens as it ripens. They are very hardy and require very little fuss from me.

• Prefers well-draining soil and regular watering.
• Can be moved into a garage during freezing winters.
• Harvest the fruit only when it is fully soft.

Strawberry

Strawberries are my favorite choice for small spaces because they fit almost anywhere. I grow mine in hanging pots to keep the berries away from ground pests. It is a joy to see the white flowers turn into bright red treats throughout the summer.

• Use a wide, shallow pot for their roots.
• Keep the soil moist but avoid wetting the leaves.
• Replace the plants every few years for the best yield.

Blueberry

Blueberries are like little ornaments in a garden. Since they need specific acidic soil, growing them in pots is much easier than trying to change the dirt in the ground. I enjoy watching the leaves change color in the fall after the harvest is done.

• Use peat moss or pine bark to keep soil acidic.
• Keep the soil consistently damp for juicy berries.
• Plant at least two bushes for a bigger harvest.

Raspberry

I used to worry that raspberries would take over my yard, but keeping them in pots keeps them perfectly contained. Newer patio varieties grow in neat mounds rather than long vines. Picking a handful of fresh raspberries for breakfast has become my favorite morning habit.

• Choose a thornless variety for easier picking.
• Needs a spot that gets plenty of morning sun.
• Cut back old canes after they finish fruiting.

Grapes

Growing grapes in a pot makes me feel like I have a tiny vineyard. You just need a trellis or a fence for the vines to climb. They look very romantic draped over a railing, and the home-grown flavor is much bolder than what I find at the store.

• Provide a strong support structure for climbing.
• Prune heavily in the winter to encourage new growth.
• Make sure the pot has excellent drainage.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are very tough and do not mind if I forget to water them occasionally. Their bright red flowers are just as pretty as the fruit itself. I find that they handle the heat of a sunny porch better than almost any other fruit tree I own.

• Loves hot weather and direct sunlight.
• Very resistant to most common plant pests.
• Let the fruit fully redden before picking.

Guava

Guavas bring a tropical feel to my home that I just love. They grow very well in containers and produce fruit that smells like a vacation. Even when they aren’t fruiting, the smooth bark and green leaves make them a very attractive plant to keep around.

• Needs a warm and sheltered spot.
• Water more frequently when the plant is flowering.
• Move indoors if temperatures drop near freezing.

Success with Potted Fruit

Moving my garden into pots taught me that I have more control over how my plants grow. While it is easier in some ways, these plants rely on me for everything, so a little extra attention goes a long way in keeping them happy.

General Advice for Pots

• Choose the largest pot you can fit to give roots room.
• Check for water daily during the hot summer months.
• Use liquid fertilizer to replace nutrients that wash away.