Growth Type Summary Table

20251103

🌿 (A1) Growing in Singapore Tropical Weather 🌿

Rooftop & Balcony Container Crop Planning Guide
(新加坡阳台 / 屋顶蔬菜种植快速参考表)

🌾 Preparation of tub/pot/ground

Companion Plant Combos – Color-Coded by Sunlight

Tub Size
W x L x H (cm)
Suggested Combination
 类别组合
Sunlight Needs
 (日照需求)
Quick Notes
(备注)
30×60×40 Chye Sim 菜心
+ Coriander 芫荽
+ Long Spring Onion 长青葱
4–6 h / partial sun Shallow roots;
fast harvest;
compatible leafy greens and herbs.
30×60×40 Mint 薄荷
+ Chili 辣椒
+ Lady’s Finger 羊角豆
Mint 4–6 h
+ Chili & Lady Finger 6–8 h
Mint repels pests;
sun-loving crops take center;
monitor shading.
40×60×40 Tomato 番茄
+ Basil 罗勒
+ Spring Onion 青葱
Tomato 6–8 h
+ Basil 4–6 h
& Onion 4–6 h
Classic pest-repelling combo;
basil benefits tomato;
onions on edges.
40×60×40 Ginger
+ Chye Sim 菜心
4–6 h partial sun Ginger occupies lower soil;
greens above in early stage;
avoid overcrowding.
60×60×40 Long Bean 长豆

 + Cabbage 包菜
/ Broccoli
/ Cauliflower
/ Kale
/ Brussels Sprouts

 + Coriander 芫荽
Long Bean 6–8 h
+ Cabbage 6+ h
+ Coriander 4–6 h
Beans climb;
cabbage covers soil;
coriander edges; watch sunlight exposure.
60×80×45 Brinjal 茄子
+ Mint 薄荷
+ Onion 长青葱
Brinjal 6–8 h
+ Mint 4–6 h
& Onion 4–6 h
Mint deters insects;
onions at edges;
brinjal in center.


They all share:

  • Medium-deep roots

  • Same nutrient demand (heavy feeders → need compost/fertilizer)

  • Similar pest family (avoid planting again in the same spot too soon)

  • Same light range (≈ 6 hours full sun)

🌿 (A2) Rooftop & Balcony Container Crop Guide

 (新加坡阳台 / 屋顶蔬菜种植)

available round pots:  D24 cm x H28 cm;  D24 cm x H16 cm

No. Suggested Combination Types
种植组合
类别
Minimum Pot & Trellis Size
(cm)
L×W×H

Soil Volume (L)
Soil Mix
 (土壤配比)
Sunlight Requirement
 (日照需求)
Notes (备注)
1
EDIBLE FLOWERS
SPROUTS


Decorative + edible

Chrysanthemum 菊花菜,

 Nasturtium
金莲花,

Spinach Amaranth
苋苗

Very shallow roots; perfect for 5–8 cm beds

L×W×H(cm)


Soil volume
10 - 12 L

40% compost
(nutrients)
+
30% cocopeat
(moisture retention)
+
20% garden soil or top soil

10% sand / perlite (drainage)

Water daily ,  shallow beds dry quickly under sun.  can cover soil surface with mulch or fine coconut fibre to retain moisture.

Sunlight hour
4-6 hours


GROW TIME


25 - 40 days
2
MICROGREENS
BABY LEAVES


Mustard
芥菜苗,

Sunflower
葵花苗,

Pea shoots
豆苗,

Wheatgrass
小麦草

Very shallow roots; perfect for 5–8 cm beds

L×W×H(cm)

Soil volume
10 - 12 L

40% compost
(nutrients)
+
30% cocopeat
(moisture retention)
+
20% garden soil or top soil

10% sand / perlite (drainage)

Water daily ,  shallow beds dry quickly under sun.  can cover soil surface with mulch or fine coconut fibre to retain moisture.



Sunlight hour
4-6 hours


GROW TIME


7 - 14 days
3
MINI ROOT VEG
矮型根 菜类

Radish
 (small type)
小萝卜
4–5 h

 Turnip (baby) 小芜菁

Beetroot
甜菜根
4–5 h
Partial shade OK; less vibrant color if too shady

Carrot “Short & Sweet” mini

Needs loose airy soil; fine for 10–12 cm

L×W×H(cm)




Soil volume
10 - 12 L

40% compost
(nutrients)
+
30% cocopeat
(moisture retention)
+
20% garden soil or top soil

10% sand / perlite (drainage)

Water daily ,  shallow beds dry quickly under sun.  can cover soil surface with mulch or fine coconut fibre to retain moisture.
Sunlight hour
6 hours +


GROW TIME


35 - 45 days
4
LEAFY GREENS
浅根蔬菜类 


HERBS
浅根香草类 


Coriander
芫荽, 香菜
3–4 h
Bolts slower in shade; loves morning sun only

Mint
薄荷
3 h
Thrives in partial shade and humid conditions

Basil
罗勒

Dill
莳萝

Parsley
欧芹
3–4 h
Grows better with morning light, not hot noon

Chives
韭菜, 
4 h
Shade-tolerant, grows slower


L×W×H(cm)
30 x 20 x 20

Soil volume
10 - 12 L

30% soil
+
50% compost

20% cocopeat

use soft loamy mix;
don't let soil dry out.


Sunlight hour
4 - 6 hours.

No Trellis

keep trimmed




GROW TIME


30 - 45 days
5
LEAFY GREENS

Long Spring Green Onion
长青葱

Chives
韭菜

Garlic Leek
蒜苗

Garlic Shoots
蒜苔

Shallow feeder roots;

frequent harvest

L×W×H(cm)
30 x 20 x 25

Soil volume
10 - 12 L

50% soil
+
40% compost

10% sand 


Sunlight hour
4 - 6 hours

GROW TIME


30 - 40 days
6
LEAFY GREENS
浅根蔬菜类 


Chye Sim
菜心
4–5 h
Can tolerate partial shade; taller stems if too little sun

Kang Kong
蕹菜
4 h
Thrives in partial shade;
avoid strong afternoon sun


Spinach
菠菜
3–4 h
Grows slower but still lush in shade; prefers cool environment

Amaranth
苋菜,

Mustard Greens
芥菜
4 h
Grows well under 50% shade cloth

Xiao Bai Cai
Pak Choi 
Bok Choy
小白菜
3–4 h
Excellent for shaded areas

Spinach
菠菜,

Kailan
芥兰苗

Kale
羽衣甘蓝
4–5 h
Does okay in partial shade; more tender leaves

LEAFY GREENS
浅根蔬菜类 

Lettuce
生菜
3–4 h
Perfect for balcony or under shade net

loose-leaf lettuces:
butterhead
Romaine baby,
Green Oak,
Red Oak.

Asian Lettuce
油麦菜,
台湾生菜

avoid
Iceberg Type - Need deeper soil


Roots < 10 cm,
ideals for shallow beds

L×W×H(cm)
25 x 40 x 25







SPACING

15 - 20 cm for full heads.

10 cm between plants for baby leaves;



COVER LETTUCE WITH  WHITE NET

0.8 - 1.0 mm white fine mesh insect net.

secure edges with clips, stones, or bricks to stop insects from crawling in.

remove the net during harvest or light watering if it blocks access.

1.  prevent pest attack
 - butterfly caterpillars, cabbage white and moth types.
 - Aphids, whiteflies, leaf miners, and grasshoppers.

2.  reduce heavy rain damage
 - raindrops can bruise soft leaves or splash soil onto them.

3.  provide light shading
 -  UV-resistant
 -  reduce strong midday sunlight by about 20% - 30% ,  keeping lettuces tender and slowing bolting (Premature flowering).

avoid black net as they absorb heat.


Soil volume
10 - 12 L

40% garden soil
+
40% compost

20% sand / perlite





LETTUCE

40% compost + 30% cocopeat + 20% garden soil + 10% perlite/sand



WATERING 

Light but frequent.

Soil must stay moist, 
not soggy,
water morning and late afternoon in hot days.


FERTILIZER

Every 7 - 10 days;
mild organic liquid fertilizer or 
diluted compose tea.

Sunlight hour
4-6 h direct sunlight

OR

3 - 4 hours  direct

+ Bright Shade rest of day,

OR

bright indirect.

Too Strong Sun causing tip burn.

AIR CIRCULATION

Keep height 30 - 40 cm above leaves.



COMMON ISSUES

Sun scorch
(move to partial shade),

aphids 
(rinse or use neem spray)
No Trellis

Low mesh 网
 20 cm


LEAFY GREENS

Leafy veg tolerate partial shade;

too much harsh sun can cause bolting or yellowing, bitter.



GROW TIME

20 - 35 days


FOR BABY LEAVES

20 days



HARVEST

Snip out leaves (cut-and-come-again) or harvest whole plant.






7

TRAY PLANTING

bitter gourd, 

Lettuce / Butterhead / Romaine

Kang Kong (Water Spinach)

Coriander (short harvest)

Mint

Chye Sim (baby stage)

Basil

They grow well with the same tray-and-tub combination.


30 × 30 × 20 cm

No trellis
soil volume (liters)
15–20 L

40% soil
+ 40% compost
+ 20% sand
4–6 h Shallow wide tub;
ginger at soil;
leafy greens on top or edge;
fast harvest.
8 Ginger 姜
(Zingiber officinale)

Turmeric
黄姜

Galangal 
南姜

(depth of soil:
Min 25 cm of loose mix)

Ginger hates waterlogging

+

Chye Sim
菜心
+
Coriander 芫荽
+
Spring Onion 长青葱
40×30×25

No trellis



COMPANION
PLATING


60 x 30 x 40
60 x 40 x 40

Allow shallow roots;

complement nutrient use.
GINGER
soil volume (
liters)
15–20 L

40% soil / loam
+
40% compost / aged manure
+
20% sand or perlite

( cocopeat )

keep soil moist 
never soggy
water less during rainy season.

light compost every 4 - 6 weeks.

Harvest Time:
8 - 10 months after planting.



GINGER:
Bright indirect light or morning sun (4 - 5 hours / day)
avoid harsh noon sun.

4–6 h indirect / filtered sun

like partial sun;
direct strong sun can scorch leaves in Singapore.

Ginger does not grow deep, but it spreads horizontally, so width is more important than depth.

Shallow wide tub;

Heavy Yield
25 - 30 L soil
60 cm x 40 cm
x H30 cm

fit 3 to 4 ginger pieces
15-20 L soil
L40 - 45 cm
x W 30 cm
x H 25 - 30 cm


1 rhizome piece
8 - 10 L soil
Diameter 25 cm
x Height 20 cm 


ginger at soil, grow below;
leafy veg above early growth.

leafy greens on top or edge;

shallow roots;

fast harvest.
9


Brassica oleracea:
large head vegetables

Cabbage 
包菜 / 卷心菜

Cauliflower 
花椰菜
高丽菜花


Broccoli
芥兰菜花
西兰花


no trellis
stalk茎 support ok


LEAFY GREENS
浅根蔬菜类 


Kale 
羽衣甘蓝 / 芥兰菜

bud type
/ Brussels Sprouts
抱子甘蓝 / 芥兰菜球.

+
Coriander 芫荽

40×30×30

No trellis
soil volume (liters)
12–15 L

50% soil
+
40% compost
+
10% sand
6+ h full sun

prefer full sun but can handle partial shade, bolts in very hot conditions.
Single plant per pot;
leafy companion herbs at edges.


Brassica oleracea family
requires 
Cool-season, full sun, rich soil, similar pest/disease control

Avoid planting all brassicas in one pot to reduce nutrient competition and pest spread.
10
LEAFY GREENS

Chili 辣椒
+
Basil 罗勒
+
Onion 长青葱
40×30×30

Stake 0.8–1 m
soil volume (liters)
12–15 L

40% soil
+ 40% compost
+ 20% sand
6–8 h Good companion planting;
sun-loving crops center, herbs edges.
11 Potato
马铃薯
+
Sweet Potato
番薯
40×40×30

No trellis
soil volume (liters)
18–20 L

40% soil
+
40% compost
+
20% cocopeat
moderate sun

6+ h full sun.

full sun helps tuber development.
Hill up soil as it grows;

trailing vines;


12



Eggplant
茄子

Chili 辣椒

Lady’s Finger 羊角豆

30×30×35

Optional Stake (pillar) 1 m
soil volume (liters)
12–15 L

40% soil
+
40% compost
+
20% sand
6–8 h full sun

full sun promotes flowering and fruit set.
Center fruiting plant;
herbs at edges;
full sun required.
13 Tomato 番茄
Cherry Tomato
小番茄
+
Bell Pepper
青椒

40×30×35

Trellis 1.5 m H

soil volume (liters)
15 L up

40% soil
+
40% compost
+
20% cocopeat / perlite
6–8 h full sun

full sun needed for flowering and fruiting.
Vertical Trellis
H1.5 m x W0.6 m 
14
Brinjal
Eggplant
茄子


FRUITING PLANTS
结果植物 


Bitter Gourd
苦瓜

Cucumber
黄瓜

+
Lady’s Finger 羊角豆
+
Mint 薄荷
45×35×40

Stake (pillar) /
Trellis 1–1.5 m
soil volume (liters)
18–20 L

40% soil
+
40% compost
+
20% sand
6–8 h Vertical Trellis
H1.8 m x W0.8 m 
15 Mint 薄荷
+
Chili 辣椒
+
Lady’s Finger 羊角豆
60×30×40

Stake (pillar)
 1 m

soil volume (liters)
15 L

40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand
6–8 h Mint repels pests;

sun-loving crops center;

watch shading.
16 Classic pest-repelling combo; Companion Trio;

Tomato 番茄
+
Basil 罗勒
+
Spring Onion 长青葱
60×40×40

Trellis 1.5 m H

soil volume (liters)
18 L

40% soil + 40% compost + 20% cocopeat / perlite
6–8 h Center plant;

companion planting benefits;

Repel aphids;

prune regularly.
17 Brinjal 茄子
+
Mint 薄荷
+
Onion 长青葱
60×40×40

80 x 60 x 45

Stake 1–1.5 m
soil volume (liters)
18L

40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand
6–8 h Brinjal in center;

herbs at edges;

mint deters insects, flea beetles;

sunlight to fruiting plant.
18 Long Bean
长豆

French Bean
四季豆

Peas
豌豆

needs at least 10 to 15 L of soil per plant.

(yardlong beans /
Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis)

Trellis
1.5 m - 2 m

+
Cabbage
包菜
+
Coriander
芫荽
60x30 x40
60×40×40
60 x 60 x 40

Vertical Trellis
2 m H
× 0.8 m W
soil volume (liters)
15–18 L

40% soil
+
40% compost
+
20% sand.

Loose, well-draining mix with compost or aged manure.

WATERING:
Keep moist but not soggy.
6–8 h direct sunlight daily.

Climbers need full sun for good pod yield.
Beans climb;
Long beans have deep taproots and need room to climb and spread.

Root Space Requirement

Min Width
25 - 30 cm per plant

min depth
30 - 40 cm per plant


One plant per pot
Ø 25 cm x H 30 cm

3-4 plants per pot
W30 cm x L90 cm x H30 cm

Grow Bag
10 - 15 L volume


cabbage covers soil;

coriander edges.
19 Winged Bean 翼豆
+
Snake Bean
蛇豆
+
Hyacinth Bean 扁豆
60×35×40

Trellis
2 m H
× 1 m W
soil volume (liters)
18–20 L

40% soil
+
40% compost
+
20% sand
6–8 h Strong trellis;
sun-loving legumes;
monitor water.
20 Cassava
Tapioca
木薯
50×50×45

Short Stake only
soil volume (liters)
25 L up

50% soil
+
40% compost
+
10% perlite

6–8 h full sun

sun improves growth and starch content.

Train vines to rooftop;
prune yearly;
dwarf varieties preferred.
21 Pumpkin
南瓜 


Need
15 to 25 gallons
47 to 95 liters of soil
45 cm x 45cm x H30 cm

Calabash
葫芦

 
Winter Melon
冬瓜

Pot size
30 x 30 x H30

Water Melon
 西瓜

at least 15 gallons (19 Liters) soils

Wide 18 inches - 24 inches
(46 cm - 60 cm)

Deep 15 - 24 inches 
(38 cm - 60 cm)
avoid compact dense garden soil.

Ideal
60×60×45
= about 160 L

 ( 0.162 cubic Meter or
162000 centimeters3)

one pumpkin plant per
Large Tub
50 x 50 x 45

POT SIZE
min width
45 cm
min height
30 cm

Trellis or stake optional;
crawl freely 2 to 4 meters
soil volume (liters)
30–40 L

or 

40L - 60L Grow Bag


40% loam soil
+
40% compost
+
 20% sand/cocopeat

Soil Type use rich, composted potting mix, well-draining, pumice, perlite or sand.

FERTILIZER
Complete Fertilizer
plenty of organic matter before planting.

Early growth:
need nitrogen (e.g., compost, chicken manure)

Flowering/fruiting
need potassium (e.g., banana peel compost, seaweed)




WATERING
Keep soil moist, 
not water logged.
roots rot easily if water logged


POLLINATION
use brush to transfer pollen from male to female flower.
(female flower has small bulb at base)
Full Sun
6–8 h / day

Need strong sun to flower and produce fruits;

vines tolerate some shading under leaves.
PUMPKIN

BOTANICAL TYPE: 


Cucurbita moschata
C.maxima - Vining gourd with long runners.

GROWING STYLE


Vine-type plant;
Creeping vine,
can crawl naturally over  on polycarbonate roof (check direct heat); 
Vines spread 2 - 4 m long.

Semi-hollow green stem with small hairs.

The main stem thickens slightly,
it remains soft and flexible, becomes thicker (2 - 3 cm) when mature, but not a woody hard trunk like grape vines.  



no need full trellis.

ROOT SYSTEM

Deep Wide Roots, needs a large, stable container.

support fruits with mesh sling.

Fruit Management:
Limit to one or two to allow for larger development.

Support fruit with a fabric hammock or mesh sling under each fruit to prevent heat burn and rolling.

22 Grapes
葡萄

Tree Trunk:
10 cm

Life: 
10 years up
60×40×50

Top Trellis 2×2 m
soil volume (liters)
25–30 L

40% soil
+
40% compost
+
20% perlite
6–8 h full sun.

essential for flowering and fruiting.

Train vines to rooftop;

prune yearly;

dwarf varieties preferred.
23
MINI ROOT VEG
矮型根菜类 

Radish
 (small type)
小萝卜,

Turnip (baby)
小芜菁,

Carrot “Short & Sweet” mini



Needs loose airy soil;

fine for 10–12 cm
SIDE 6+ h full sun.
GROW TIME


35 - 45 days

24 Banana
香蕉 (Dwarf)
60×60×60

Strong Center Stake 标桩
soil volume (liters)
50 L ↑

50% soil
+
40% compost
+
10% sand
6–8 h full sun.

Tropically adapted, loves full sun.
One per tub;
needs support & water;
full sun.
25 Papaya
木瓜 (Dwarf)
60×60×60

Stake center when young
soil volume (liters)
50 L ↑

50% soil
+
40% compost
+
10% sand
6–8 h full sun.

Tropically adapted, loves full sun.
Dwarf or solo type preferred;


New No. New Crop Combo / 新作物组合 Pot size 
Trellis info
W×L×H(cm)
Soil volume (L)
Soil mix here
Sunlight hour Notes here

🌿 Tip: Layering Style Option

If you can raise the sides a little (e.g., add 5 cm rim), you can plant:

Lower layer: cocopeat + sand

Upper 10 cm: compost + topsoil
→ This gives roots a bit more breathing room while keeping total bed shallow and light.


Edible Plants That Grow Well in Bright Shade (No Direct Sun)
Category Example 中文名称 Notes
🌿 Leafy Greens Lettuce 生菜 One of the best choices; prefers cool bright shade
Spinach (local / Bayam) 菠菜 Grows slowly but well; avoid waterlogging
Kang Kong 蕹菜 Excellent in partial or bright shade
Pak Choi / Xiao Bai Cai 小白菜 Compact, tender, very suitable
Chye Sim 菜心 Can grow in bright shade; thinner stems
🍃 Herbs Mint 薄荷 Perfect! Loves humidity and shade
Coriander 芫荽 / 香菜 Slow growing but happier in cool, indirect light
Parsley 欧芹 Does fine in bright shade; keep soil moist
Chives 韭菜 Can tolerate shade, just grows slower
Lemon balm / Basil (Thai or Sweet) 柠檬香蜂草 / 罗勒 Needs at least bright light; will survive, but weaker fragrance
🌱 Microgreens / Sprouts Any (sunflower, radish, mustard, pea shoot) 微型蔬菜 Excellent for walls; grow trays on racks; harvest in 7–14 days


⚠️ Not Recommended in Bright Shade

Type Example Why
Fruiting veggies Tomato, cucumber, long bean, brinjal, okra Need strong sunlight to flower & fruit
Root veggies Potato, beetroot, carrot, ginger Need at least 4–6h direct sun for energy storage


🌿 Vegetables That Can Grow with Partial Sun (3–4 hours/day)

Category Example Vegetables 中文名称 Sunlight Needed Notes
Leafy Greens 🥬 Spinach 菠菜 3–4 h Grows slower but still lush in shade; prefers cool environment
Lettuce 生菜 3–4 h Perfect for balcony or under shade net
Kang Kong 蕹菜 4 h Thrives in partial shade; avoid strong afternoon sun
Chye Sim 菜心 4–5 h Can tolerate partial shade; taller stems if too little sun
Kale 羽衣甘蓝 4–5 h Does okay in partial shade; more tender leaves
Herbs Coriander 芫荽 / 香菜 3–4 h Bolts slower in shade; loves morning sun only
Mint 薄荷 3 h Thrives in partial shade and humid conditions
Parsley 欧芹 3–4 h Grows better with morning light, not hot noon
Chives 韭菜 4 h Shade-tolerant, grows slower
Root Vegetables Radish 萝卜 4–5 h Needs some light for root development
Beetroot 甜菜根 4–5 h Partial shade OK; less vibrant color if too shady
Others Pak Choi / Bok Choy 小白菜 3–4 h Excellent for shaded areas
Mustard greens 芥菜 4 h Grows well under 50% shade cloth





☀️ Vegetables That Need Full Sun (6–8 hours/day)

Category Example Vegetables 中文名称
Fruiting Tomatoes 番茄
Lady’s Finger 羊角豆
Long Beans 长豆
Cucumber 黄瓜
Brinjal 茄子
Pumpkin 南瓜
Bitter Gourd 苦瓜
Root Potato 马铃薯
Spices Ginger 姜, Turmeric 姜黄




🌿 Tips for Wall-Growing Setup

  1. Use light-colored wall — it reflects brightness to leaves.

  2. Stack vertically — use wall planters or shelves (3–4 tiers).

  3. Use moisture-retaining soil (mix compost + cocopeat + perlite).

  4. Mist spray or use a fine nozzle drip daily (morning only).

  5. Add a small reflective foil or mirror sheet opposite the wall to double the light.


“Compiled with the help of ChatGPT (GPT-5, 2025) for tropical container gardening in Singapore.”

🌿(A3) Growing Brassica  (芸苔属)

🌾Brassica oleracea family
requires Cool-season, full sun, rich soil, similar pest/disease control
Avoid planting all brassicas in one pot to reduce nutrient competition and pest spread.

Common Name Scientific Variety
Category
Quick Notes
(备注)
Cabbage                 包菜 Brassica oleracea var. capitata
 – Large Head Vegetables
Forms a tight leafy head
Cauliflower          白菜花 Brassica oleracea var. botrytis
– Large Head Vegetables
White curd (flower head)
Broccoli              芥兰菜花 Brassica oleracea var. italica
– Large Head Vegetables
Green flower buds
Kale                    芥兰菜Brassica oleracea var. sabellica
– Leafy Type
Doesn’t form head
Brussels Sprouts    芥兰菜球 Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera
– Bud Type
Forms small mini-cabbages on stem

🌿(A4) Crawling Plants


Crawling Plants
PlantStem Type
Vine (藤)
fruit weight Roots
Trellis/ support
Trellis / support
exit direction / placement
Notes
Grape Tree
葡萄藤


lifecycle:

 perennial i.e., many years
(10 to 30 years)
depending on variety, care, and growing conditions.
tall, hard,, thick woody tree trunk 

matured grapevine can be up to 10 cm thick
MediumStrong Trellis

long-term center plant in pot
Toward #02 roof

Can produce fruit reliably for many years once established.

Annual pruning required to maintain productivity.




Watermelon
🍉 西瓜
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months
Soft, hollow, strong creeping vineHeavy (5–15 kg for large types)

sprawling
Root
Shallow but vigorous; spreads widely,  not suitable for pot.

usually grows on ground, difficult to support in small pots.

Needs wide area for vines
Creeper;

heavy fruits need space to lie on ground or strong slings if elevated

Usually stays on the ground;

rarely trellised in home gardens because fruit is heavy

Sunlight:
Full Sun

Needs wide space;

high water requirement;

can compete for nutrients with other plants in the same pot


Pumpkin
南瓜
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months
soft, hollowHeavyTrellis or crawl




Toward #02 roof
Use sling or net for each fruit; prune excess runners
Winter Melon
🍈 冬瓜

Annual
- completes life cycle in 4-6 months 

Similar to pumpkin in growth habit.


Soft, hollow, flexible; light vine
Medium to heavy (2–8 kg)


Root:
Shallow, spreads from base
Trellis (sling needed) or crawl

Climbs or creeps, lighter and easier to manage on trellis.

lighter fruit than watermelon;

suitable for trellis

Sunlight:
Full Sun

Good for vertical training; climbs up trellis nicely

Tie individual fruits; prune trailing vines

Cantaloupe
🍈 蜜瓜 
Hami Melon
 哈密瓜

Annual - completes life cycle in 4-6 months 
Soft, green, flexible vine;

 slightly hairy;

Medium (~1–3 kg)

Light fruits; 

keep fruit off soil to prevent rot, 
Root:  Shallow, spreads from base

can be grown in a smaller pot

allowed to creep or climb lightly

Creeping vine(藤);

Trellis or crawl;

can climb if trellis provided but usually spreads on the ground

Can crawl on roof/trellis; lighter than pumpkin/watermelon, easier to trellis or hang. 

Sunlight:
Full sun (6+ hours)

Needs warm full sun, sunny conditions; 

light creeper, similar to winter melon, safe for trellis or crawling over roof.

Calabash
葫芦瓜
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months
Soft, hollow vineMediumTrellis or crawlToward roof or side wallTie gently;

can hang fruit;

grows fast
Luffa / Sponge Gourd 丝瓜
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months
Soft, hollowMediumTrellisToward roof
Tie gently; fast grower; harvest fruits young or mature for sponge
Snake Gourd
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months
Soft, flexibleMediumTrellisToward roofVine climbs easily; fruits hang well
Bitter Gourd
苦瓜
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months
Soft, thin vineLightTrellisToward roof or trellisThin vine;

sensitive to bruising;

harvest early
Cucumber
黄瓜/老黄瓜
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months

不与南瓜番茄参
Soft, flexible vineLightTrellis or net

主蔓结瓜

落蔓:
剪掉底下的旧叶子,把高的放下来。
Toward roof or trellis
Vine can be guided;

keep fruit supported

harvest regularly 



Long Bean 
Yard long
长豆
Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months
Soft, flexible vineLight podsTrellis or fenceToward floor trellis / west sun screenQuick climber;

harvest regularly

west sun screen



🌿(A5) Dragon Pot Creeper / Climber and tall plants

Dragon Pot Creeper / Climber & Tall Plants
Plant / Item Life Cycle Stem Type Fruit Weight Support / Trellis Notes
Grape Tree Perennial – 10–30+ years Woody, thick trunk Medium Strong trellis Prune annually; long-term center plant in pot
Pumpkin Annual Soft, hollow vine Heavy Trellis or crawl Use sling or net for each fruit; prune excess runners
Winter Melon Annual Soft, hollow vine Medium to heavy Trellis or crawl Tie individual fruits; prune trailing vines
Calabash (葫芦) Annual Soft, hollow vine Medium Trellis or crawl Can hang fruits; grows fast; tie gently
Long Bean / Yardlong Bean Annual Soft, flexible vine Light pods Trellis or fence Quick climber; harvest regularly; west sun screen
蜜瓜 / 哈密瓜 (Melons) Annual Soft, flexible vine Medium (1–3 kg) Trellis or crawl Light fruits; keep off soil to prevent rot; warm full sun
Bitter Gourd Annual Soft, thin vine Light Trellis Thin vine; sensitive to bruising; harvest early
Cucumber Annual Soft, flexible vine Light Trellis or net Guide vine; support fruits; harvest regularly


🌿(B1) Growing Companion

一起成长 相辅相成
Plant / Item Best Companion
最佳良伴
Root System Effects Results

Tomatoes
        
番茄

不与黄瓜土豆(马铃薯)参
Green Onions

青葱
长葱

The Roots of the green onions produce/release a type of sulfur compound that disrupt the self structures of the bacteria causing tomato wilt (枯萎), offering great protection against this diseases.
strong scent of green onions repels pests, reduce insect damage to tomatoes.better disease resistant

higher yield
LettucesBroccoli
CarrotsSnap Peas

🌿(B2)  Plants that should not grow together

天生的死对头
Plant / Item 天敌 过程 效果
辣椒豆角炭疽病传染得非常快豆角长满烂板
黄瓜南瓜叶子黄,不开花
黄瓜番茄分泌毒素抑制对方生长畸形果实
减产
未结果先枯死
土豆
(马铃薯)
番茄是仇家,相互下毒两个都死

🌿(B3) Plants that share common pest


同病相怜
Plant / Item Pests Solutions Applications Results
Tomatoes
Peppers
Cucumbers
Aphids
蚜虫
50 g white vinegar
50 g salt
50 g baking soda
4 gallons of water
spray on the vegetables every seven days

x

3 applications
repel pest 

increase yield

no residue
Chili

Always plant 2 seedlings together, the entangled roots help their stability by supporting each other.

Help Pollination.
PEST PREVENTION

15 g baking soda
15 g dish soap

15 kg of water


AFTER FLOWERING ROOT DEVELOPMENT IRRIGATION

30 g brown sugar
30 liters of water

Spray on the leaves once a week

Robust Growth with abundant yields

Prevent pest and diseases

Prevent Pest

before planting, sprinkle some lime powder over the soil.improve soil,
balance pH.
help plants grow stronger.

eliminate cabbage worms and snails.  they will vanish over night.

🌿(B4) Nature Fertilizer


自然肥
Plant / Item Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column 5 Column 6
驱虫剂防虫害
氮肥预防黄叶掉叶黄豆泡水
磷肥鸡蛋壳鸡蛋壳
钾肥枝干长粗壮淘米水
生根液红糖兑水


SEEDLING


🌾 1️⃣ Why people usually start seedlings separately

ReasonBenefit
🌡️ Controlled environmentSmall seed trays or cups keep moisture, warmth, and oxygen more stable — ideal for tiny seeds.
🌱 Stronger root systemYou can protect young roots from pests or strong rain until they’re established.
💧 Efficient wateringSmall trays need less water and are easier to manage.
🧠 Space managementYou can start many seedlings in a small tray while your main bed is still occupied.
🔍 SelectionYou transplant only the healthiest ones; weak ones are discarded.



🌱 2️⃣ When you can skip seedling trays (Direct sowing is better!)

Some plants don’t like their roots disturbed, so they actually grow better if you sow directly into the final soil bed.

✅ Direct-sow plants中文名称Why
Kang Kong蕹菜Grows fast, easy germination
Chye Sim / Pak Choi菜心 / 小白菜Grows quickly; easy to thin later
Spinach菠菜Direct sow gives stronger taproot
Long Bean长豆Dislikes transplanting
Lady’s Finger (Okra)羊角豆Dislikes root disturbance
Corn玉米Roots are sensitive; direct sow is best
Radish / Carrot / Beetroot萝卜 / 胡萝卜 / 甜菜根Must direct sow — root shape deforms if transplanted
Coriander芫荽Germinates slowly; hates transplanting

🌿 3️⃣ When seedling trays are better

🌡️ Indoor/rooftop conditionPlant examples
You have heavy rain / strong sunLettuce, tomato, brinjal, cucumber
You have pest issues (ants, snails, birds)Any small seed (like lettuce or basil)
You grow in mixed pots (multi-crop tubs)It’s easier to pre-plan spacing with seedlings

🧠 4️⃣ Hybrid method (Best of both worlds)

You can:

  • Start seeds in small tray or egg carton until 2–3 true leaves appear,

  • Then transplant into your final pot/tub gently (keep soil around roots intact).

This saves weak seeds, yet avoids transplant shock.


Summary Rule of Thumb:

🌱 Leafy greens and beans = Direct sow is fine.
🍅 Fruiting plants (tomato, brinjal, chilli) = Start seedlings first.
🥕 Root crops (carrot, radish, beetroot) = Always direct sow.










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🌿 Singapore Rooftop & Balcony Container Crop Planning Guide
(新加坡阳台 / 屋顶蔬菜种植快速参考表)

No. Suggested Combination Types
(种植组合 / 类别)
Minimum Pot & Trellis Size
(cm) 容器尺寸 + 棚架尺寸
Best Soil Volume (L)
Soil Mix (土壤配比) Sunlight Requirement (日照需求) Notes (备注)
1Chye Sim 菜心 / Kang Kong 蕹菜 / Spinach 菠菜25×40×25
10–12 L
No trellis
40% garden soil + 40% compost + 20% sand / perlite4–6 hFast-growing leafy veg; harvest 25–35 days.
2Cabbage 包菜 / Broccoli 芥兰菜花 / Cauliflower 菜花30×40×30
12–15 L
No trellis
50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand6+ hPrefer cooler months or partial shade; single plant per pot.
3Coriander 芫荽 / Mint 薄荷 / Basil 罗勒 / Dill 蒔蘿20×30×20
6–8 L
No trellis
30% soil + 50% compost + 20% cocopeat4–6 hAromatic herbs; good companion with tomato or chili.
4Long Spring Onion 长青葱 / Chives 韭菜 / Garlic Leek 蒜苗20×30×25
6–8 L
No trellis
50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand4–6 hCan mix with leafy greens or herbs; shallow roots.
5Lady’s Finger 羊角豆 / Chili 辣椒 / Eggplant 小茄子30×30×35
12–15 L
Stake 1 m H
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand6–8 hNeed full sun; one plant per pot.
6Tomato 番茄 / Cherry Tomato 小番茄 / Bell Pepper 青椒30×40×35
15 L
Trellis 1.5 m H × 0.6 m W
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% cocopeat / perlite6–8 hUse pole or cage; combine with basil & onion.
7Brinjal 茄子 / Bitter Gourd 苦瓜 / Cucumber 黄瓜35×45×40
18–20 L
Trellis 1.8 m H × 0.8 m W
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand6–8 hClimbers need support; prune regularly.
8Ginger 姜 / Turmeric 姜黄 / Galangal 南姜40×30×25
15–20 L
No trellis
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand4–6 h (filtered sun)Shallow wide tub; keep soil loose and moist.
9Potato 马铃薯 / Sweet Potato 番薯40×40×30
18–20 L
No trellis
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% cocopeat6+ hHill up soil as it grows; trailing vines.
10Cassava 木薯 / Tapioca50×50×45
25 L ↑
No trellis
50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand6–8 hNeeds long duration (9–12 months); dwarf types only.
11Long Bean 长豆 / French Bean 四季豆 / Peas 豌豆30×60×40
15–18 L
Trellis 2 m H × 0.8 m W
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand6+ hFast climbers; pair with short leafy greens below.
12Winged Bean 翼豆 / Snake Bean 蛇豆 / Hyacinth Bean 扁豆35×60×40
18–20 L
Trellis 2 m H × 1 m W
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand6+ hNeed strong trellis; sun-loving legumes.
13Grapes 葡萄40×60×50
25–30 L
Top Trellis 2×2 m
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% perlite6–8 hTrain vines to rooftop or railing; prune yearly.
14Banana 香蕉 (Dwarf)60×60×60
50 L ↑
Stake center
50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand6–8 hOne per tub; needs strong support and water.
15Papaya 木瓜60×60×60
50 L ↑
Stake center
50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand6–8 hDwarf or solo type preferred for pot; full sun.
16Pumpkin 南瓜 / Calabash 葫芦 / Winter Melon 冬瓜60×60×45
30–40 L
Trellis optional; crawl on roof 2–4 m
40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand6–8 hVine-type plant; can crawl freely on roof; support fruits with mesh sling; strong sunlight needed.

🌾 Recommended Companion Combos (适合共植组合)

Tub SizeSuggested CombinationQuick Notes
30×60×40 cmChye Sim + Coriander + Long OnionShallow roots; quick harvest.
30×60×40 cmMint + Chili + Lady’s FingerMint repels pests; sun-loving set.
40×60×40 cmTomato + Basil + Spring OnionClassic pest-repelling combo.
40×60×40 cmGinger + Chye SimGinger under, greens above early stage.
60×60×40 cmLong Bean + Cabbage + CorianderBeans climb; cabbage covers soil.
60×80×45 cmBrinjal + Mint + OnionMint deters insects.

✅ Compiled with the help of ChatGPT (GPT-5, 2025) for tropical container gardening in Singapore.

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✅ Co-designed and Compiled with ChatGPT (GPT-5, 2025) for tropical container gardening in Singapore.