What Can I Grow Together in My Tower Garden?

If you're wondering what veggies and herbs work well together in your Tower Garden, you're not alone. The trick is making sure the plants you choose enjoy similar growing conditions—especially when it comes to nutrients in the water.

We’ve grouped plants into little “friendship circles” based on how much food (nutrients) they like in the water, measured in something called PPM (parts per million). You don’t need to be a scientist—just think of it like checking the recipe before cooking. You’ll need a simple PPM meter to test the nutrient levels in your Tower Garden water.

We use our special Tower Tonic Minerals – Parts A & B to feed the plants, and below are a few helpful combos to try based on your water’s PPM levels.

Think of PPM (parts per million) as how strong the plant "food" is in your water—like how much Milo you put in your milk. Some plants like a light mix, others want it strong!

pH is how acidic or alkaline your water is—kind of like how lemon juice is sour (acidic) and baking soda is more alkaline. Most plants like it right in the middle, around a pH of 6.

With the right PPM and pH, your plants will grow healthy and happy in your Tower Garden—no guesswork needed! 🌱

Perfect for leafy greens and gentle herbs. These plants enjoy a lighter feed:

• Arugula
• Basil
• Calendula (edible petals!)
• Coriander (aka Cilantro)
• Dandelion
• Fennel
• Lavender
• Lemon Balm
• Mustard Greens
• Nasturtiums (edible + helps keep pests away)
• Oregano
• Pansies (edible petals)
• Parsley
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Thyme
• Violas
• Watercress

A bit more nutrient-loving, but still leafy-friendly:

• Basil
• Chives
• Fennel
• Kale
• Leek
• Lemon Balm
• Mustard Greens
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Peas
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Thyme
• Watercress
  (Lettuce might grow here too—just keep an eye on the leaf tips for signs of nutrient overload.)

Good for bigger veggies and small fruiting plants:

• Beetroot
• Bok Choy
• Broad Beans
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Chives
• Cucumber
• Kale
• Leek
• Marjoram
• Mustard Greens
• Parsley
• Peas
• Pumpkin
• Spinach
• Summer Squash
• Strawberries
• Swiss Chard
• Turnip Greens
• Watercress
• Watermelon
• Zucchini

For those ready to get serious with fruiting plants and heavier feeders:

• Beans
• Celery
• Chives
• Cucumber
• Eggplant
• Endive/Chicory
• Hot & Sweet Peppers (just watch for cross-pollination)
• Kale
• Melon
• Mint
• Okra
• Pumpkin
• Spinach
• Strawberries
• Swiss Chard
• Tomato
• Watermelon
• Zucchini

Now we’re in big veggie territory—these guys are hungry!

• Beans
• Beetroot
• Broccoli
• Brussels Sprouts
• Cabbage
• Dill
• Hot & Sweet Peppers
• Tomatillo
• Tomato

⚠️ Tip: Plants like tomatoes, squash, and watermelon are thirsty. On hot days, they’ll slurp up more water and nutrients than usual.

Bonus Tips:

• Put the big guys (like kale and celery) up top so they don’t block the sun.

• Vining plants (like cucumbers or peas) are best near the bottom so they can grow out and climb.

• Let the kids help! Fun, edible flowers like nasturtiums and pansies are great for curious little gardeners.

Final Thought

Pick one group that suits what your whānau loves to eat. Don’t overthink it—just plant, grow, and enjoy the fresh goodness straight from your tower. 🌱