Growing your own food at home can be both rewarding and sustainable — even if you only have a small space. Chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) are a nutritious legume rich in protein and fiber. And the great news is: you don’t need a large garden to grow them! With just a simple pot and the right care, you can enjoy homegrown chickpeas right from your patio, balcony, or terrace.
Whether you’re new to container gardening or looking to expand your edible garden, this guide will walk you through the essential steps of growing chickpeas successfully in pots.
Why Grow Chickpeas in Containers?
Chickpeas are normally grown in fields, but they adapt well to container gardening when given enough space, sunlight, and care. Growing them in pots not only saves garden space but also gives you better control over soil, water, and pests.
If you want a complete step‑by‑step guide on planting and caring for chickpeas in pots, take a look at this helpful resource on how to successfully grow chickpeas in a simple garden pot: learn more about growing chickpeas in containers.
Choosing the Right Pot and Soil
For the best results, choose a pot that:
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Is at least 12–16 inches deep to allow room for roots
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Has good drainage holes
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Can hold at least 5–7 gallons of soil
Use a well‑draining potting mix enriched with compost or organic matter to give your chickpeas the nutrients they need. Avoid heavy garden soil, as it retains too much moisture and can lead to root rot.
Planting Chickpeas in Pots
Follow these simple steps for planting:
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Soak the Seeds:
Soak chickpea seeds in water overnight to speed up germination and improve sprouting success. -
Planting Depth:
Sow seeds about 1.5 to 2 inches deep in the pot soil. -
Spacing:
If planting multiple seeds in one pot, leave about 3–4 inches between seeds.
After planting, water gently but thoroughly, then allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings.
For more detailed guidance on proper planting techniques and care routines, check out this full article on how to successfully grow chickpeas in a garden pot: detailed container gardening tips for chickpeas.
Caring for Chickpeas
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Sunlight: Chickpeas need at least 6–8 hours of sunlight each day. Place your pot in a bright, sunny spot.
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Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist — not soggy. Overwatering can damage the roots.
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Support: Once the plants grow taller, you can add a small trellis or stake to help them stay upright.
Harvesting Your Chickpeas
Chickpeas usually mature in 90–100 days. You’ll know they’re ready when the plant’s leaves turn yellow and the pods become dry and firm. Harvest the pods and let them dry before extracting your chickpeas.