Variety of plants stacked on top of each other to maximize space

Everything You Need to Know About Stackable Planters

Stacking For Success

If you're short on space but eager to exercise your green thumb, stackable planters might just be the perfect solution for you. 

They allow you to maximize your available space for gardening, create stunning walls of greenery, and grow much more than you might think.

More on that later, but first, what exactly are stackable planters, and how can they transform your gardening experience?

 

What is a stackable planter?

Stackable planters, also known as vertical gardening systems or tiered garden beds, are innovative containers designed to maximize growing space in small areas. 

These containers typically consist of multiple tiers or levels that can be stacked on top of each other, allowing you to grow a variety of plants vertically.

The Marly Founder Bundle, for example, allows you to stack a selection of small and large planters, offering a versatile range of heights and configurations for your indoor or outdoor garden.  

 

Stacked planters inside home

 


Are stackable planters worth it?

The design of stackable planters offer numerous benefits that make them well worth the investment. Whether you're an urban dweller craving greenery, a beginner gardener looking to dip your toes into gardening, or simply seeking a space-efficient and low-maintenance way to grow your own plants, stackable planters provide a versatile and accessible solution. 

Space Efficiency: By growing vertically, stackable planters make the most of limited space, whether you have a small apartment, balcony, patio, or even just a corner of your yard. They enable you to cultivate a thriving garden in areas where traditional gardening methods might be impractical.

Organization: Stackable planters help keep your garden organized and tidy. Each tier provides a space for different types of plants, making it easier to manage and maintain your garden.

Accessibility: With stackable planters, you can bring your garden to eye level, making it more accessible for planting, watering, and harvesting. This accessibility is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those who prefer not to bend or kneel while gardening.

Aesthetic Appeal: Stackable planters can enhance the visual appeal of your space, adding layers and dimension to your garden, allowing you to showcase your plants in an attractive and creative way.

Versatility: Stackable planters are versatile containers that can accommodate a wide range of plants, including herbs, vegetables, flowers, and even small fruits. Whether you want to grow a kitchen garden full of culinary herbs or create a vibrant display of colorful flowers, stackable planters offer plenty of possibilities.

In conclusion, if you're considering starting a garden but are short on space or time, stackable planters are definitely worth considering as a valuable addition to your horticultural toolkit.

 

Stacked plants in beautiful planters

 

 

What can you grow in stackable planters?

Stackable planters offer the opportunity to grow a variety of plants, herbs, and vegetables in a compact and organized manner. 

But what exactly should you plant in stackable planters? Let's explore some options.

Herbs: Herbs are perfect for stackable planters because they don't require a lot of space and can thrive in smaller containers. You can grow favorites like basil, parsley, mint, and rosemary, allowing you to have fresh herbs at your fingertips for use in the kitchen.

Salad Greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are excellent choices for stackable planters. They grow relatively quickly and can be harvested multiple times, providing you with a continuous supply of fresh, nutritious greens for salads and sandwiches.

Strawberries: Stackable planters are ideal for growing strawberries, as they allow you to create a vertical strawberry garden. Strawberries don't require deep roots, making them well-suited for these types of containers. Plus, growing them vertically helps to keep the fruits off the ground, reducing the risk of rot and pests.

Tomatoes: Certain varieties of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes, can thrive in stackable planters. Be sure to provide proper support as the plants grow to prevent them from toppling over.

Peppers: Bell peppers, chili peppers, and other pepper varieties can be grown in stackable planters, provided they receive enough sunlight and warmth. These plants can add a pop of color and flavor to your meals while taking up minimal space.

Edible Flowers: Consider planting edible flowers like nasturtiums, calendula, or pansies in your stackable planters. Not only do they add beauty to your garden, but they can also be used to garnish salads, desserts, and cocktails.

Small Root Vegetables: Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets can be grown in stackable planters, particularly if you choose shorter or round varieties that don't require deep soil. Just make sure the containers are deep enough to accommodate the roots.

Vertical Garden Mix: Get creative with your stackable planters by mixing and matching different types of plants. Create a vertical herb garden with a variety of herbs, intersperse flowers with vegetables for a colorful display, or experiment with companion planting to maximize space and productivity.

Marly planters come in a variety of sizes and configurations, making it easy to mix and match plants, indoors and out. 

Check out our full range of stackable, self-watering planters here


Colorful plants stacked for vertical garden inside home

 

 

How to use stackable planters

So, we know that stackable planters look great, benefit your plants, are suitable for growing vegetables, and can be an invaluable tool in tight spaces. Now let's delve into some tips on how to use stackable planters effectively:

Choose the Right Location: Before you start stacking your planters, consider the location carefully. Most plants require ample sunlight to thrive, so choose a spot that receives the right amount of rays each day. Additionally, ensure the area is easily accessible for watering and maintenance.

Select the Appropriate Plants: Not all plants are well-suited for stackable planters. Opt for varieties that have shallow root systems or are naturally compact. Herbs, leafy greens, strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and peppers are excellent choices for stackable gardening.

Assemble Your Stackable Planters: Ensure each tier is securely stacked on top of the other, with proper stability to prevent accidents or toppling over. Marly products include an instruction manual to help you get started.

Planting: When planting in stackable planters, start with the bottom tier and work your way up. Plant each tier with your chosen varieties, ensuring adequate spacing between plants to allow for proper growth. Follow the planting instructions for each type of plant, including planting depth and spacing requirements.

Watering and Maintenance: Proper watering is crucial for the success of your stackable garden. Water your plants regularly, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Monitor the moisture levels closely, especially during hot weather or periods of drought. 

Marly planters include self-watering technology to make keeping your plants moist easier than ever, even if you find yourself away from your plants for long periods. 

Support and Training: Some plants, such as tomatoes and peppers, may require support as they grow. Install stakes, trellises, or cages to provide support and prevent sprawling or toppling over. 

Harvesting: As your plants mature, enjoy the fruits of your labor by harvesting regularly. Harvest leafy greens when they reach the desired size, pick strawberries as they ripen, and pluck herbs as needed for culinary and cocktail use! Regular harvesting encourages continuous growth and ensures a steady supply of fresh produce.

By following these tips, you can harness the full potential of stackable planters to create a thriving and productive garden in even the smallest of spaces.

 

Gif showing planters and plants being stacked on top of each other

 



Who are stackable planters good for?

Stackable planters have revolutionized gardening, offering a convenient and efficient solution for growing plants in limited spaces. 

Stackable planters are suitable for a wide range of people, from city dwellers in need of a green space, to beginners setting out on their gardening journey. They offer a space-efficient, accessible, and low-maintenance gardening solution that empowers anyone to grow their own plants, herbs, and vegetables, regardless of their living situation or gardening experience. 

Urban Dwellers: For those living in apartments, condos, or urban areas with limited outdoor space, stackable planters are a game-changer. They allow urban dwellers to create lush gardens on balconies, patios, or even windowsills, bringing nature into their homes without sacrificing precious space.

Balcony and Patio Gardeners: Homeowners with small balconies or patios often struggle to find room for traditional garden beds. Stackable planters provide a compact and versatile solution, allowing balcony and patio gardeners to grow a variety of plants vertically, maximizing every inch of available space. 

They can even be used to create a wall of privacy if you have neighbors living close by.

Beginner Gardeners: If you're new to gardening and feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of starting a garden, stackable planters are an excellent option. They're easy to set up, require minimal maintenance, and offer a forgiving environment for learning the basics of gardening without the commitment of a large plot of land.

They are the perfect tool for getting familiar with different plant varieties and gardening methods. 

Seniors and Individuals with Mobility Issues: Traditional gardening can be physically demanding. Stackable planters bring the garden to eye level, making it easier to plant, water, and harvest without bending or kneeling, thus enabling more people to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening.

Schools and Community Centers: Stackable planters are a fantastic educational tool for schools and community centers, allowing students and community members to learn about gardening and food production in a hands-on way. They're also a practical solution for growing fresh produce in educational settings where space may be limited.

Anyone Seeking a Low-Maintenance Garden: Whether you're a busy professional, a frequent traveler, or simply prefer a low-maintenance garden, stackable planters are a great option. 

Marly planters go one step further by combining the ability to stack planters with self-watering technology, ensuring your plants are kept adequately moist for longer periods of time. 

If you're looking for a convenient and versatile way to bring the joy of gardening into your life, stackable planters are definitely worth considering!

Dive into the Marly collection to begin your stackable garden here.



Wall of stacked plants in stackable planters

 

 

What vegetables grow in stackable planters?

Stackable planters offer a brilliant solution for those looking to cultivate their own fresh vegetables. Leafy greens, herbs, tomatoes, peppers, radishes, carrots, cucumbers, peas, beans, scallions and more are all able to thrive in vertical gardens. 

Save time and money with home grown produce, without the strain on space.

Leafy Greens: Leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are perfect for stackable planters. They have shallow root systems and don't require a lot of space to grow, making them ideal candidates for vertical gardening. Plus, they're quick to mature, allowing for a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

Herbs: Herbs are another excellent choice for stackable planters. Compact varieties like basil, parsley, cilantro, and mint thrive in small containers, making it super easy to add flavor and freshness to your kitchen without taking up too much space.

Tomatoes: Certain varieties of tomatoes, especially determinate or patio varieties, can thrive in stackable planters. Cherry tomatoes are particularly well-suited for vertical gardening due to their compact size. Just be sure to provide support for the plants as they grow, such as stakes or cages.

Peppers: Bell peppers, chili peppers, and other pepper varieties can also be grown in stackable planters. Compact pepper plants fit well in vertical gardens and produce tasty colorful fruits. Provide adequate sunlight and warmth and you’ll be rewarded with sweet and spicy treats.

Radishes and Carrots: Root vegetables like radishes and carrots can be grown in stackable planters, especially shorter or round varieties that don't require deep soil. These fast-growing vegetables are perfect for vertical gardening and can be harvested when young for a tender and flavorful crop.

Cucumbers: Some compact cucumber varieties, such as bush cucumbers or mini cucumbers, can be grown with proper support. Trellises or stakes can help support the vines as they grow.

Beans and Peas: Vertical-growing beans and peas are well-suited for stackable planters, as they can climb trellises or stakes with ease. Compact bush varieties are preferable for smaller containers, while pole beans and peas can be trained to grow vertically for optimal space utilization. A beautiful green wall that also keeps you fed? Perfect!

Scallions and Green Onions: Scallions and green onions are perfect for stackable planters, as they can be harvested continuously by snipping off the tops as needed. These versatile vegetables add flavor and freshness to a wide range of dishes and thrive in compact growing spaces.

The possibilities are pretty much endless when it comes to growing vegetables and other edible plants in your stackable planters. And, even better, you don’t need a huge space to do so. 

Simply grow upwards, maximizing the real estate you have, however small it may be. 

 

Green plants in stackable planters creating vertical garden 

  

The Stackable, Self-Watering Planter by Marly

We hope you enjoyed our complete roundup on the versatile, space saving, aesthetically pleasing, and hugely beneficial, stackable planter.

Providing the tools for gardeners of every level to build beautiful gardens, however small their space, is kind of our thing here at Marly.

Our stackable planters are thoughtfully designed to look amazing, whilst benefitting your plants and your surroundings.

Start or expand your garden by taking a closer look at the complete Marly planter collection here

And learn more about our company here.
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