Top 8 Vegetables to Plant in February for Balcony or Container Gardening

February is the perfect month to start sowing summer vegetables. Gardening enthusiasts can take advantage of the mild sunlight and prepare for a fresh, organic harvest right from their rooftops or balconies. According to gardening experts, these 8 vegetables are easy to grow in containers and yield excellent results during the summer season.

1. Okra (Bhindi)

Okra is a summer favorite and grows well in pots. You can sow seeds directly in a container or raise seedlings in small cups before transplanting. Use a container at least 12 inches deep and 12 inches wide, and plant 1–2 seedlings per pot to give them enough space to spread.

2. Eggplant (Baingan)

Eggplant thrives in containers when grown from seedlings. Transplant them to 12–15 inch deep pots once they reach 4–5 inches in height. Eggplants require plenty of sunlight for healthy growth.

3. Chili (Mirchi)

Chilies can be grown similarly to eggplants, starting from seedlings in a nursery. Choose 12–15 inch deep containers with proper drainage to prevent root rot. Home-grown chilies add a fresh and spicy punch to your meals.

4. Long Beans (Barbati)

Long beans can be sown directly or transplanted as seedlings. Being a climbing vine, they require a support structure. Use a 12-inch deep container, planting one vine per pot, or two if the pot is wider.

5. Cucumber (Kheera)

Cucumbers are rich in water content and highly nutritious during summer. Sow seeds directly in large pots or grow bags (15 inches deep). Support the climbing vines with ropes or nets for proper growth.

6. Bitter Gourd (Karela)

February is ideal for sowing bitter gourd seeds directly into the soil. Select a deep container (at least 18 inches) to allow roots to spread. The vines can also climb balcony grills or trellises.

7. Bottle Gourd (Lauki)

Bottle gourd grows quickly as a climbing vine. Sow seeds directly in large containers (18 inches deep) with nutrient-rich soil and plenty of sunlight for the best yield.

8. Ridge Gourd (Torai)

Ridge gourd is another climbing vegetable, similar to bottle gourd and bitter gourd. Sow directly in pots of 15–18 inches depth. If planted by late February, harvesting can start by April–May.

Expert Gardening Tips

• Purchase seeds or seedlings from a nearby nursery or order online if unavailable locally.
• Use proper-sized containers and nutrient-rich, well-draining soil.
• Ensure climbing vegetables have support like trellises, nets, or balcony grills.

By following these tips, even small-space gardeners can enjoy a bountiful summer vegetable harvest at home, free from chemicals and pesticides.