When it comes to growing plants on a balcony or terrace, even experienced gardeners can face a challenge. But don’t let that discourage you, it’s also an opportunity to get creative and have some fun. Whether you want to create an urban vegetable garden or a tropical paradise, the possibilities are endless .
Of course, you’ll have to work within the limited space available, which means you can explore some nifty tricks to maximize every inch. Luckily, we’ve got some tips to help you start your balcony gardening adventure. So put on your gardening gloves, grab your trowel, and let’s get growing!
Growing on a Balcony Garden
You’ll want to ensure you have enough space for your chosen plant and access to the right amount of sun or shade it needs to thrive. And if you live in an area with cold winters, don’t fret: plenty of outdoor potted plants can survive year-round outdoors or be brought indoors for the winter.
So what can you grow in your balcony garden? The options are numerous! You can cultivate fresh herbs and veggies for your next home-cooked meal, or try your hand at growing small trees like dwarf citrus plants or olive trees. If you’re planting citrus trees in clay soil, be sure to take proper care to keep them in the best shape possible.
Small shrubs, annuals, perennials, and succulents are also great choices, depending on the light conditions of your space. And don’t forget about the tropical vibes! You can bring in some philodendron or spider plants for a pop of greenery. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, try researching the best plants for posts outdoors.
If you’re looking to add some height to your balcony garden, consider using hanging plants outdoors or growing climbing plants like flowering vines — just make sure you have a trellis or other vertical support to help them reach new heights.
Watering on a Balcony Garden
Whether you’re planting succulents outdoors or choosing something a little more traditional, finding an outside water source for balcony or rooftop gardens can be a real challenge. But fear not – you don’t need to lug heavy jugs of water from your sink or bathtub every time you need to water your plants.
If you have lots of plants to water, consider investing in a large, lightweight watering can that you can fill up in your bathtub. And for space-saving solutions, collapsible watering cans are the way to go. They take up minimal space and can be stored flat when not in use.
Don’t waste a drop of water – put saucers or trays under your plants to catch any overflow. Self-watering pots can also be a game-changer, as they help conserve water and significantly decrease watering frequency.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can even eliminate watering cans altogether by investing in a lightweight, expandable garden hose that attaches to your kitchen sink with an adapter. They come in lengths up to 100 feet and retract easily for storage.
An important thing to remember is that the hotter and windier it is on your balcony, the more often you’ll need to water your plants — sometimes twice a day! So if you’re far from a water source, consider growing plants outdoor with low water requirements like cacti and succulents.
Getting the Most Out of Your Space
You might think that you need a lot of space to create a balcony garden, but in reality, a little creativity can go a long way! Remember to take advantage of your balcony’s walls, railings, and overhead structures.
Go vertical with your garden by attaching pots, shelves, or trellises to the walls. Consider adding a few hooks for hanging plants outdoors if you have a ceiling. To maximize your space even more, cover your balcony’s railings with chicken wire to support climbing plants or invest in plant hangers that can be attached to the top of a railing. (Looking for more vertical gardening ideas? We’ve got you covered!)
Think of your balcony garden as an extension of your indoor living space. Choosing plant colors and textures that match your interior design makes even the smallest balcony look more spacious and inviting.
Understanding the Limits of Balcony Gardening
When starting, you’ll need to be aware of any weight restrictions your balcony may have. You want to avoid overloading your space with heavy planters that may cause damage. Also, make sure to check the rules regarding what you can and can’t hang from your balcony railings and walls. Aside from weight, you’ll also want to consider the microclimate of your balcony. The amount of sunlight, wind exposure, and temperature can all affect what and where you can plant.
Wind can quickly dry out the soil and cause damage to delicate foliage, so make sure to protect your plants from strong gusts by using privacy screens or placing them in low pots near a wall. Heat can also be a factor, especially if your balcony is made of materials that retain heat, so consider planting in lighter containers or using shades to protect your plants.
Finally, if your balcony is surrounded by tall buildings or covered by an overhang, you may need to work around the lack of sunlight. You can still grow sun-loving plants by placing them near the balcony’s perimeter where they can get more light. Before you start planting, it’s essential to check with your building owner or apartment manager to make sure you’re following any rules or regulations they may have.
Find the Perfect Plants for Your Balcony Garden
With some careful planning, creativity, and a bit of patience, you can transform your small space into a lush oasis that brings you joy and relaxation. Remember to choose plants that are suitable for your climate, space, and light conditions, and always consider weight and other restrictions before buying containers or accessories — and most importantly, have fun with it!
If you’re ready to start your balcony gardening journey, head on over to Yarden.com, where you can find a wide variety of plants and accessories to help you create the perfect garden for your balcony. So whether you’re just starting or are an experienced gardener out here planting citrus trees, Yarden has everything you need to make your dream balcony garden a reality.
