🌿 (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)
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 姜 + 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:
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Medium-deep roots
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Same nutrient demand (heavy feeders → need compost/fertilizer)
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Similar pest family (avoid planting again in the same spot too soon)
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Same light range (≈ 6 hours full sun)
🌿 (A2) Rooftop & Balcony Container Crop Guide
(新加坡阳台 / 屋顶蔬菜种植)
| 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
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. |
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| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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
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Use light-colored wall — it reflects brightness to leaves.
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Stack vertically — use wall planters or shelves (3–4 tiers).
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Use moisture-retaining soil (mix compost + cocopeat + perlite).
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Mist spray or use a fine nozzle drip daily (morning only).
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Add a small reflective foil or mirror sheet opposite the wall to double the light.
🌿(A3) Growing Brassica (芸苔属)
| 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 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | Stem 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 | Medium | Strong Trellis long-term center plant in pot | Toward #02 roof Can produce fruit reliably for many years once established. |
| |||
| Watermelon 🍉 西瓜 Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months | Soft, hollow, strong creeping vine | Heavy (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 |
| |||
| Pumpkin 南瓜 Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months | soft, hollow | Heavy | Trellis 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 |
|
| 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 vine | Medium | Trellis or crawl | Toward roof or side wall | Tie gently; can hang fruit; grows fast | |||
| Luffa / Sponge Gourd 丝瓜 Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months | Soft, hollow | Medium | Trellis | Toward roof |
| |||
| Snake Gourd Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months | Soft, flexible | Medium | Trellis | Toward roof | Vine climbs easily; fruits hang well | |||
| Bitter Gourd 苦瓜 Annual – completes life cycle in 4–6 months | Soft, thin vine | Light | Trellis | Toward roof or trellis | Thin 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 vine | Light | Trellis 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 vine | Light pods | Trellis or fence | Toward floor trellis / west sun screen | Quick 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 | |
| Lettuces | Broccoli | ||||
| Carrots | Snap 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
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 🌡️ Controlled environment | Small seed trays or cups keep moisture, warmth, and oxygen more stable — ideal for tiny seeds. |
| 🌱 Stronger root system | You can protect young roots from pests or strong rain until they’re established. |
| 💧 Efficient watering | Small trays need less water and are easier to manage. |
| 🧠 Space management | You can start many seedlings in a small tray while your main bed is still occupied. |
| 🔍 Selection | You 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 condition Plant examples You have heavy rain / strong sun Lettuce, 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
| 🌡️ Indoor/rooftop condition | Plant examples |
|---|---|
| You have heavy rain / strong sun | Lettuce, 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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chye 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 / perlite | 4–6 h | Fast-growing leafy veg; harvest 25–35 days. |
| 2 | Cabbage 包菜 / Broccoli 芥兰菜花 / Cauliflower 菜花 | 30×40×30 12–15 L No trellis | 50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand | 6+ h | Prefer cooler months or partial shade; single plant per pot. |
| 3 | Coriander 芫荽 / Mint 薄荷 / Basil 罗勒 / Dill 蒔蘿 | 20×30×20 6–8 L No trellis | 30% soil + 50% compost + 20% cocopeat | 4–6 h | Aromatic herbs; good companion with tomato or chili. |
| 4 | Long 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% sand | 4–6 h | Can mix with leafy greens or herbs; shallow roots. |
| 5 | Lady’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% sand | 6–8 h | Need full sun; one plant per pot. |
| 6 | Tomato 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 / perlite | 6–8 h | Use pole or cage; combine with basil & onion. |
| 7 | Brinjal 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% sand | 6–8 h | Climbers need support; prune regularly. |
| 8 | Ginger 姜 / Turmeric 姜黄 / Galangal 南姜 | 40×30×25 15–20 L No trellis | 40% soil + 40% compost + 20% sand | 4–6 h (filtered sun) | Shallow wide tub; keep soil loose and moist. |
| 9 | Potato 马铃薯 / Sweet Potato 番薯 | 40×40×30 18–20 L No trellis | 40% soil + 40% compost + 20% cocopeat | 6+ h | Hill up soil as it grows; trailing vines. |
| 10 | Cassava 木薯 / Tapioca | 50×50×45 25 L ↑ No trellis | 50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand | 6–8 h | Needs long duration (9–12 months); dwarf types only. |
| 11 | Long 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% sand | 6+ h | Fast climbers; pair with short leafy greens below. |
| 12 | Winged 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% sand | 6+ h | Need strong trellis; sun-loving legumes. |
| 13 | Grapes 葡萄 | 40×60×50 25–30 L Top Trellis 2×2 m | 40% soil + 40% compost + 20% perlite | 6–8 h | Train vines to rooftop or railing; prune yearly. |
| 14 | Banana 香蕉 (Dwarf) | 60×60×60 50 L ↑ Stake center | 50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand | 6–8 h | One per tub; needs strong support and water. |
| 15 | Papaya 木瓜 | 60×60×60 50 L ↑ Stake center | 50% soil + 40% compost + 10% sand | 6–8 h | Dwarf or solo type preferred for pot; full sun. |
| 16 | Pumpkin 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% sand | 6–8 h | Vine-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 Size | Suggested Combination | Quick Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 30×60×40 cm | Chye Sim + Coriander + Long Onion | Shallow roots; quick harvest. |
| 30×60×40 cm | Mint + Chili + Lady’s Finger | Mint repels pests; sun-loving set. |
| 40×60×40 cm | Tomato + Basil + Spring Onion | Classic pest-repelling combo. |
| 40×60×40 cm | Ginger + Chye Sim | Ginger under, greens above early stage. |
| 60×60×40 cm | Long Bean + Cabbage + Coriander | Beans climb; cabbage covers soil. |
| 60×80×45 cm | Brinjal + Mint + Onion | Mint deters insects. |
✅ Compiled with the help of ChatGPT (GPT-5, 2025) for tropical container gardening in Singapore.
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