All containers should have sufficient number of drainage holes in the bottom for proper drainage. You have many more alternatives if you live in a duplex, a single unit or house and have access to an open yard. You may still use window boxes, but now you have access to borders along walkways and foundation plantings. You will be pleasantly surprised to see how attractive a walkway can be when edged with such plants as carrots in full foliage. There is also ample opportunity to position large containers such as baskets with pepper or tomato plants.
Fences are ideal for growing many vegetables, especially vining types such as cucumbers and melons.
Six to 8 ft of fence space could provide enough cucumbers for fresh consumption and ample supplies for pickling. When cantaloupe fruits begin to enlarge, tie to the fence in a sling made from nylon hose to avoid self-picking. The soil mixture you use will have a great influence on your success. It should be free of disease, insect and weed pests and have a pH of about 6.0 to 6.5. Your county extension agent can provide you with a soil testing kit to test the pH of your soil.