I think that you can use those shopping baskets as container, for certain/most veggies, but not for everything. For example, tomatoes, cukes, squash would need probably more depth.

You can plant various kinds of herbs, onions, chives, .. in them

Herbs and chives! That's a good idea.

That sounds like it would be very cute. With some flowers, herbs, perhaps a mesclun mix, such a planted basket could make an excellent gift. If you try this out, let us know how it goes!

If they still have the handles, they would probably hang easily, if you have a barn or some large tree limbs, something to hang them from. That would probably give half a day of shade, depending on which side. I've used similar items as planters also, but for succulent house plants.

What about packing strawberries all around one? Stuff doesn't have to just grow from the top if there are holes in the sides.

Smaller plants in general is a great suggestion. Radishes, lettuce come to mind also. Just follow the timing for your area for whatever you choose.

Excellent ideas, pupleinopp!! I hadn't thought of strawberries and was considering growing them but i haven't a suitable spot. I could put the strawberries growing through the slats of the yellow basket. how cute!

I'll try to remember to come back and post a pick if I get anything going in them. Gotta get stuff to grow. Still working on that part. Spent 3 years learning about soil. Got that down. Now, to battle Oklahoma weather.. haha