Arrange an edible garden in a small space

When to do it

Before filling heavy pots or installing climbing supports.

What you need

• Tape measure
• A simple sun and access sketch
• Stable containers and supports

How to do it

1. Observe where sun falls across the day. Match crops to that exposure, including shade cast by walls and future tall plants.
2. Leave room for doors, drains, walking and harvesting. Check a balcony’s load allowance before placing heavy wet planters.
3. Put compatible moisture needs together and keep thirsty plants accessible. Do not leave pots where drainage falls onto people below.
4. For vertical crops, select actual climbing varieties and a support capable of carrying the mature crop. Secure it safely; do not use a railing as an unassessed structural anchor.
5. Place taller crops where they least shade light-demanding smaller ones. Test access with a watering can and adjust before plants grow.

What success looks like

• Every pot is reachable and the arrangement remains stable in wind.

Watch out for

• Crowding many tiny pots into a hot, hard-to-water corner.
• Hanging heavy fruit above a walkway.

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