[AnneB]

I have been given some sturdy wooden packing cases.  One is around 3' wide x 18" deep x 18" high.  The other is slightly smaller at 2'6" x 15" x 15".

What should I grow in them?  I have thought about leeks and carrots or salad crops.

I have nowhere to put asparagus, but it would be too late to plant this year and from what I know, the depth is nowhere near deep enough.

Any other ideas or suggestions?

[LilacSandy]

Round carrotts would be good and this would be great for salads.

Herbs would thrive in them and it would stop mint from spreading and be great for Basil.

[AnneB]

Thanks for the suggestions.  I have given up growing basil this far north, it just sulks all the time and never gets going.

I did wonder about dwarf French beans.

[solway cropper]

At 18 inches deep you could grow just about anything in them. I wouldn't waste them on salad crops as they don't need that kind of depth. I grow lettuce, spring onions and radishes in containers no more than 6 inches deep.

French beans would be ideal, just put plenty of well rotted muck in the bottom and they should thrive.

[arugula]

I have given up growing basil this far north,

I grow basil here. It is happy if you can keep it warm.

[AnneB]

I don't have a polytunnel or greenhouse, so only outdoors.  I have tried basil many times and I end up with pathetic stalks that don't bulk out, even when tips are pinched and look very sad and windswept.

Are yours outside Argyllie?