These are bush basil plants growing in recycled pop/soda bottle planters. They provide water by sub-irrigation. Use them to prove to yourself that they are the best way to grow tabletop plants be they edible or decorative.
The planters belong to Chris here in Brooklyn who is about to become a new rooftop gardener. He has chosen to grow in EarthBoxes that should arrive shortly.
Not only is he a new rooftop grower, he is also a new blogger. It's most helpful that he is choosing to share his experiences with all of us. Read more on Mapleton-BKLYN and be sure to add him to your RSS reader.