This week, we’re diving into your most common edible gardening questions. Whether you’re growing fruit trees, tomatoes, or peppers, we’ve got expert tips to help you maximize your harvest in Cincinnati.

What Citrus Plants Can I Grow in Cincinnati?

We offer a fantastic selection of citrus plants perfect for container gardening. Grow them outdoors during the summer and bring them indoors for the winter. Some popular options include:

• Kieffer Lime
• Yuzu Lime
• Pomegranate
• Mexican Lime
• Buddha’s Hand
• Satsuma Arctic Frost

We even have lemons arriving soon! Explore these unique additions to your edible garden at Natorp’s Edible Collection.

What Apple Trees Are Best for Small Backyards?

If you have a small yard, look no further than Urban Apples! These columnar trees grow 3–4 feet wide and 8–10 feet tall, making them perfect for tight spaces or large containers. Despite their small footprint, they produce full-sized apples and require minimal pruning. Urban Apples are an easy and space-saving way to grow your delicious apples.

Can You Grow Figs Indoors in Cincinnati?

Yes, figs can be grown indoors or overwintered outdoors with proper care. Byron Martin of Logee’s has successfully overwintered figs by protecting them in colder climates like Connecticut. You can also try the Chicago Hardy Fig, a zone 6 variety, for outdoor planting in Cincinnati. Or, grow figs in containers and store them in an unheated garage for winter. Pick up a fig plant and tip sheet at Natorp’s Outlet to get started. To learn about our Fig Collection!

What’s the New Tomato with Long Streams of Cherry Tomatoes?

It’s called Rapunzel, a must-grow variety for cherry tomato lovers! This plant produces long, cascading clusters of cherry tomatoes, making it as visually stunning as it is productive. For a versatile medium-sized tomato, try Fourth of July—a customer favorite for its reliability and flavor. Check out our extensive Tomato Collection online!

How Deep and Wide Should a Raised Bed Garden Be?

Raised bed gardening is an excellent way to grow edibles, offering better soil control and easier maintenance. For best results:

• Depth: 6–36 inches, depending on the crops you grow.
• Width: 4 feet wide (easy to reach from both sides).
• Length: Customize it to your available space.

Consider exploring keyhole gardens, a sustainable design that optimizes space and composting.

What Tomatoes Are Best for Containers?

Almost any tomato can thrive in a container if properly supported. For smaller spaces, choose determinate or bush varieties like:

• Bush Early Girl

• Bush Champion

• Health Kick

• Patio

For larger plants, use containers at least 18 inches in diameter. Dwarf tomatoes can do well in smaller pots (10–12 inches). Don’t forget to fertilize with TomatoTone, which contains calcium to prevent Blossom End Rot.

Why Do Peppers Change Color?

Most peppers start green and gradually change color as they mature. For example:

• Bell Peppers: Typically harvested green but will turn red, orange, or yellow if left on the plant.
• Jalapeños: Often picked green but will ripen to a reddish-orange.

Peppers grow exceptionally well in containers, making them a versatile option for Cincinnati gardeners.

What’s a Good Early Tomato Variety?

Try Early Girl or Fourth of July for medium-sized tomatoes for early harvests. If you’re after cherry tomatoes, check out Tumbling Toms, a fast-growing variety for small spaces or hanging baskets. Browse Natorp’s Tomato Collection to find the perfect variety for your garden.

Have More Questions About Edible Gardening?

Whether you’re planting citrus, figs, tomatoes, or peppers, our edible gardening experts are here to help. Visit Natorp’s Outlet or contact us online for personalized advice. Let’s make this your most delicious gardening season yet!