25 Fruits & Best Vegetables for Vertical Gardening
Want to learn what you can grow vertically? Here you will find 25 fruits and the best vegetables for vertical gardening.
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All these fruits and best vegetables for vertical gardening have been done for many years and have amazing benefits in a home garden.
Vertical gardening is actually more popular now as the world is getting more people to create gardens.
These 25 best vegetables for vertical gardening will help you start growing vertically.
The trick is to know which fruits and vegetables can actually grow vertically since now all of them do.
Table of Contents: Best vegetables for vertical gardening
As long as you can buy or build a support structure to hold vining plants up you can garden vertically.
Some examples of vertical support or a supporting structure for the best vegetables for vertical gardening:
- Vertical planter
- Hanging basket
- Wooden lattice wall
- A-vertical frame trellis
- Arch trellis
- Tomato Cage
- Three sisters garden
- bamboo teepee
- Chicken wire
A cattle panel is my favorite support system that lets me grow vertically,
Click Here to see how to create a cattle panel trellis.
You can have a small space or a large one to start a vertical vegetable garden will benefit all gardens.
I can’t say enough great things about vertical gardening because it allows gardeners with less space to be more productive.
Vertically growing is a good idea as it teaches the skill of growing upwards rather than outwards.
Before we get into all the best fruits and vegetables you can grow vertically, let’s give you all the benefits of gardening vertically.
Benefits of growing fruits and vegetables vertically
- It saves space making room to plant more food
- It gives your plans more room to grow
- Plants grow naturally vertically
- Your water source will have better water delivery
- Provides pest control
- Gives plants better airflow
- You will have healthier plants.
25 Best vegetables for vertical gardening
Vining Cucumbers
There are two types of cucumbers bush and vining and naturally cucumbers will benefit from having a trellis. Cucumbers can grow very fast and their leaves are big enough to cover an area making you search for fruit.
Letting cucumber trail up a trellis helps give the plant needed airflow, prevent disease, and make harvesting easier.
Keeping cucumber off the ground will not only help your back when harvesting but may also prevent other critters from getting to them first.
The more you pick cucumber the more cucumbers you will get and vertically gardening aids all that potential growth.
Recommend varieties
Armenian cucumbers
This type of cucumber originated from Egypt and is also called “atta.”This fruit is called a muskmelon tastes like a cucumber and grows well vertically.
The vines of an Armenian cucumber can grow fast and long, slender, and sometimes curled fruits. They can grow larger than 18 inches in length so it is beneficial to grow them up a trellis.
Armenian cucumbers taste best when harvested 8-12 inches.
Recommend varieties
Cucamelons
Cucamelons are small and look like little watermelons that taste like cucumbers. These plants are best grown on a trellis because it has fragile vines that like to grow up any structure it’s next to.
You will find that by growing this cute little fruit vertically, you can pick them like candy. Growing them up makes harvesting more accessible and will prevent you from stepping on this small fruit.
Cucamelons are pretty addictive so by growing them vertically you will be snacking on them as soon as you see them at eye level.
Recommend varieties
Pole beans
Pole beans are a great vegetable to grow vertically and will help you save a lot of space in your garden.
Growing pole beans is a must grow vertically since they naturally like to climb on something developing long vines and lots of beans.
You can directly sow pole bean seeds in the ground next to a trellis if the soil is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They will do the work for you and trellis themselves up if you have some type of vertical support structure for them.
As long as you water them well by having them in well-drained soil, that is slightly acidic, and making sure they get 6-8 hours of sun you will have a productive crop of pole beans.
Recommend varieties
Chinese python snake beans
This heat-loving gourd grows long vines up to 40 feet long!
Originally from China, the Chinese python snake bean thrives on a sturdy trellis because the gourds can get very heavy.
It is a very unique-looking vegetable that has a snake-like shape, hence its name.
You can harvest them at any size, but the longer you wait the bigger it will get and the taste is not that appealing.
You can cook them like zucchini and use them in stir fry.
Yardlong beans
Yardlong beans are actually a variety of cowpeas and clubs on a trellis with no problem.
They are also asparagus beans and are known to be grown in the Asian culture as they use this vegetable so many dishes.
You need to grow yardlong beans vertically because they can grow up to 12 feet long and having support is ideal.
You will grow plenty of yardlong beans if you grow them in well-drained soil that has a soil temperature that is at least 80 degrees F.
Make sure to give them plenty of space while growing them vertically giving them at least a 7 feet high trellis or teepee.
Recommend varieties
Winter squash
Plant Winter squash by a trellis so it can grow vertically as it can spread up to 100 ft.
Growing winter squash vertically supports all vines and brings much-needed airflow to help it grow successfully.
Winter squash in a location that has well-drained soil and a lot of sun, at least 6-8 hours of sun.
In about 60-100 days you should be ready to harvest winter squash.
Another way to grow winter squash vertically is to grow a Three Sisters garden by planting corn and beans with winter squash.
Recommend varieties
Snap peas
Snap peas are cold hardy vegetables that benefit from growing up on a trellis providing them support.
The vines of this vegetable will proliferate and produce little pods that you can pick and munch on while in the garden.
Growing snap peas vertically will give them much-needed airflow, make harvesting easy, and help with disease.
I love growing snap peas vertically because the pretty leaves and food that grow can make your garden look pleasant to look at.
Recommend varieties
Summer squashes
Growing summer squash vertically is fun to do because of all the types of colors shapes sizes all summer squash varieties have.
Growing summer squash vertically helps air movement giving your plan. Great air circulation to help decrease any fungal diseases or powdery mildew.
More light will be on your summer squash if you grow it vertically as well as saving you space by growing vertically.
Summer squash is known to have plenty of pets that try to target so they’re growing vertically.
More light will be on your summer squash if you grow it vertically as well as saving you space by growing vertically.
Summer squash is known to have plenty of pets to try to target so they’re growing vertically.
You can definitely lessen the amount of squash bugs by giving them fewer places to hide when you grow summer squash vertically.
Recommend varieties
Malabar spinach
Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil or use a large container for limited space. Sow Malabar spinach seeds or transplant seedlings after the last frost.
Space them 6-8 inches apart along a trellis or support structure.
Get a sturdy trellis or use a vertical gardening system to support the vines, as they can grow up to 10 feet tall.
Amend soil with compost for fertility and moisture retention and keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
Fertilize by applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer periodically. Start picking leaves and tender stems once they reach your desired size. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth.
Incorporate Malabar spinach in salads, stir-fries, or as a cooked side dish for a tasty and nutritious addition to your meals.
Recommend varieties
Cantaloupe
Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-6.8. Amend the soil with organic matter, like compost, to improve fertility and moisture retention.
Sow cantaloupe seeds or transplant seedlings when the soil temperature reaches 70°F (21°C). Space plants 2-3 feet apart in rows, or use mounds for better drainage.
Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Use a balanced fertilizer early in the season, and side-dress with compost as the plants grow.
Provide a trellis to give it support for the developing fruit to prevent it from touching the ground.
Growing cantaloupe vertically will help monitor for pests like aphids and diseases like powdery mildew, and help you harvest.
Cantaloupes are ready to harvest when the skin turns beige, the stem end softens
Recommend varieties
Passion fruit
Find a support structure to Install a sturdy trellis or pergola in a sunny location. Ensure it can support the weight of mature passion fruit vines.
Plant passion fruit vines in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5-7.0. Amend with compost for added fertility.
When planting space vines 6-10 feet apart, allowing them to climb. Plant during the warm season when the soil is at least 70°F (21°C).
Guide young vines onto the trellis or wires to encourage vertical growth. Maintain even soil moisture, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages.
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season. Regularly trim to control growth and promote air circulation.
Ripe passion fruits will fall off when gently twisted. Enjoy the delicious, aromatic fruits in desserts, juices, or as a snack.
Recommend varieties
Grapes
To grow grapes vertically, use a trellis system with sturdy posts and wire supports. Plant grapevines 6-8 feet apart along the trellis.
Train the vines upward, securing them to the wires as they grow. Prune regularly to promote healthy growth and ample sunlight.
Provide proper irrigation and soil nutrients for optimal grape production.
Recommend varieties
Hops
Grow Hops using vertical support react a sturdy trellis or vertical system, reaching at least 15 feet in height. Use ropes, wires, or twine for the hops to climb.
Train Hops to grow by guiding the vines clockwise up the support structure. Trim weaker shoots to encourage strong growth.
Provide regular watering, ensuring soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring and when growth begins. Harvest hop cones in late summer or early fall when they feel papery and aromatic.
Cut back vines to the ground after harvest, and cover the roots with mulch for winter protection.
Hops are perennial; they’ll return each year with proper care.
Recommend varieties
Indeterminate Tomatoes
To grow indeterminate tomato plants vertically, use stakes or trellises for support. Plant tomatoes in well-drained soil with ample sunlight.
As they grow, tie the main stem to the support structure using soft ties or twine. Prune the lower branches to encourage upward growth and air circulation.
Remove suckers (side shoots) regularly to focus energy on fruit production. Water consistently, avoiding overhead watering to prevent diseases.
Fertilize with a balanced tomato fertilizer according to package instructions. Monitor for pests and diseases, and provide adequate spacing between plants.
This vertical method maximizes space and yields.
Recommend varieties
Loofah
Loofah is one of the most diverse plants you can grow because it can be used as food and as a DIY sponge.
This is a wonderful vegetable to start growing vertically as it grows huge leaves and long vigorous vines that can take over a space.
To grow loofah vertically, use a sturdy trellis or support structure. Plant loofah seeds in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.
Train the vines to climb the trellis as they grow, securing them gently with twine or ties.
Water regularly, avoiding wetting the leaves to get a bountiful harvest.
Harvest mature loofahs when they turn brown and feel lightweight.
Recommend varieties
Melons
Growing melons vertically can save space and prevent rot. Use a strong trellis or support system to accommodate the vines.
Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant melon seeds or transplants near the base of the trellis and guide the vines upward, securing them gently as they grow.
Prune excessive foliage to focus energy on fruit production.
Provide consistent watering, avoiding wetting the leaves. Use a balanced fertilizer and monitor for pests.
Use slings or netting to support developing melons. Harvest when ripe, typically indicated by a color change and a sweet aroma
Recommend varieties
Watermelon
Select a small or bush variety suitable for vertical growth to grow watermelon vertically on a trellis.
Plant near the trellis base, securing vines as they climb.
Prune lateral shoots and tendrils for better fruit development. Use melon hammocks to help the heavy fruit hang on your trellis.
Ensure regular watering and fertile soil.
Harvest ripe watermelons when they sound hollow and have a sweet aroma.
Recommend varieties
Tomatillos
Grow tomatillos vertically by selecting a sturdy trellis or support structure. Plant tomatillo seeds or transplants in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.
As the plants grow, gently tie them to the trellis, and prune lower branches to encourage upward growth.
Provide consistent watering, avoid wetting the foliage, and fertilize with a balanced blend.
Monitor for pests and diseases.
Harvest tomatillos when they fill out their husks and turn green or purple, depending on the variety.
Recommend varieties
Seminole pumpkin
If you can grow one thing in the heat that will look amazing in your garden, the Seminole pumpkin is it!
The Seminole pumpkin grows big leaves and plenty of fruit to fill any size trellis.
I think it necessary to grow this fruit vertically because it prevents pests and diseases, as well as provides great airflow.
The pumpkin is not your typical tasting pumpkin, it is smaller and is a mix of a melon and pumpkin when it comes to taste.
This pumpkin grows well in the heat and its vines can overgrow so make sure you have a big enough trellis.
Recommend varieties
Sweet potato
To grow sweet potatoes vertically, select compact or vining varieties.
Place a sturdy trellis or support system near the planting area. Plant sweet potato slips at the base and guide vines to climb the trellis as they grow.
Prune lateral shoots and maintain soil moisture.
Harvest mature sweet potatoes when leaves turn yellow or after about 90-120 days.
Recommend varieties
Chayote
To grow chayote vertically, choose a strong trellis or support structure.
Plant chayote fruit with the pointed end up, about 3 inches deep. Water regularly and mulch to retain moisture.
As the vines grow, gently train them onto the trellis and secure them with ties.
Prune excessive foliage for better fruit development.
Harvest when chayotes are firm and about 4-6 inches long.
Recommend varieties
Chayote Seeds Sechium Edule Green
Rocoto Pepper
To grow Rocoto peppers vertically, use a sturdy trellis or support system. Plant seeds or transplants in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.
As they grow, gently tie the pepper plants to the trellis, pruning lower branches for upward growth.
Water consistently, avoiding wetting the leaves, and use a balanced fertilizer.
Monitor for pests and diseases. Harvest Rocoto peppers when they reach the desired size and maturity level, typically when they turn red or yellow.
Recommend varieties
Kiwi
To grow kiwi on a trellis, select a sunny, well-drained location.
Plant both male and female kiwi vines about 10-12 feet apart in early spring.
Install a sturdy trellis about 6-7 feet high. Train vines onto the trellis, securing with ties.
Prune regularly to encourage upward growth.
Ensure consistent moisture, fertilize as needed, and expect fruit production in 3-5 years, typically in late summer to early fall.
Recommend varieties
Lablab Beans
Grow Lablab beans vertically, select a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Plant Lablab bean seeds or transplants near a sturdy trellis or support structure.
As they grow, guide the vines onto the trellis, securing them gently with ties.
Prune excessive lateral growth to encourage upward growth and air circulation.
Water consistently, avoiding leaf wetting, and fertilize with a balanced blend.
Watch for pests and diseases. Harvest when pods are plump and beans inside are mature for culinary use.
Recommend varieties
Vertical growing is a great option if you do not have much space and a great way to get the most out of your garden space.
I hope you learned about some of the best vegetables for vertical gardening.
Aside from fruit & best vegetables for vertical gardening, there is more great gardening information below.
Soil Blocking: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners
The Best Seed Companies List to Help You Grow the Most Amazing Garden Ever!
Easy Herb Garden for Beginners Guide
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