Can I grow plants in contaminated soil?

Plants that produce fruiting bodies (tomatoes, squash, apple and pear trees, and tall berries) are most appropriate for growing in potentially contaminated soil.

Root and tuber crops (carrots, potatoes and radish) are often the least appropriate plants to grow in potentially contaminated soil, as the edible portions of the crops are in direct contact with the soil.

Vegetables with large outer leaves (cabbage, lettuce and collard greens) and herbs (mint, sage, thyme) are easily contaminated by dust and soil splash back, so careful washing of these plants is necessary.