Nothing is as amazing as a fresh, crisp cucumber right off the vine or snap beans picked minutes before you steam them for dinner. And why pay for produce that always seems to get icky in your crisper drawer before you remember to use it? Growing your own veggies is easier than you think—and surprisingly satisfying. (“Sweetgreen? Nah, I grew this salad myself.”)
New varieties have been developed to thrive in containers, so you can garden in even the tiniest of spaces on a deck, patio or balcony. To give your plants a good start in life, remember that almost all vegetables need full sun, which is about eight hours of direct sunlight per day; otherwise, plants won’t produce well. And if you’re new at this, start small with a few pots or a single raised bed. It’s better to learn a little before making a huge investment of money (and time), because that garden won’t weed itself!
Here are ten easy vegetables to grow, whether you have a green thumb or are totally green yourself.