Knowledgebase

Planting in Plastic?? #892790

Asked February 18, 2025, 3:51 PM EST

Hello! I currently live in an apartment complex and would like to make a little temporary garden this summer. I'm not allowed to plant directly in the ground, but I'm wondering if it is safe to plant food in plastic. I was thinking of using a plastic bin with holes drilled in the bottom, however I'm worried about plastic leaching into the food. I've also only ever seen food grown in the ground or in plastic. What are your thoughts? Can you offer any guidance on the "right" plastic to grow in or any alternatives? Thank you!!!

Strafford County New Hampshire

Expert Response

Hi Gabrielle,

Thank you for contacting the UNH Extension Infoline with your question about growing plants in plastic containers.  As you will see from the facts sheets for which I have included links, plastic pots are perfectly acceptable.

https://extension.unh.edu/sites/default/files/migrated_unmanaged_files/Resource000610_Rep632.pdf

https://extension.unh.edu/blog/2024/05/tips-small-space-gardening-pots-other-containers

https://njaes.rutgers.edu/fs1215/

https://njaes.rutgers.edu/FS055/

Loading ...