Do you have a green thumb but are stuck with an apartment in an urban jungle? Fear not! A balcony garden can bring a little slice of nature to your sliding door! Most apartments have nothing against gardening, so turn that bare-naked space into a lush, green paradise. The question is: What plants can you get for the type of balcony ya got?
Get to Know Your Balcony
Is your balcony shady, tucked in the shadows, or does it always play in the rain? Apartments and rentals often don’t consider where your outdoor space is facing. Well, nature is built for it all, with a diverse selection of plants that you watch thrive in your soon-to-be oasis.
Before you start anything, please take a look at your balcony and note how it goes about its daily routine. Do you have critters jumping on the railings? How hard does the wind blow? How much sun and rain exposure does it take? What is the weight limit for a hanging garden? It’s important to know how the outside world interacts with your outdoor patio so you can watch your garden grow.
How’s the Weather Up There?
What’s the weather like where you are? Humid and hot or dry and cold? Does your balcony get sun or shade cover? Wind speed within normal velocity? The balcony garden needs to withstand the climate so it can thrive. Fact check for the plant’s heat zones, the needed amount of sunlight and water, soil requirements, its growth range and size, and needed nutrients. It’s important to keep in mind that your balcony garden will only live if you know it can survive in the right environment.
Get to Know the Natives
Many plant types can be potted and survive on apartment balconies:
- Herbs
- Mini shrubs and trees
- Vegetables
- Succulents
- Perennials and/or Annual plants
- Vines
One of the best ways to start plant care is caring for plants native to your area. You’ll be surprised that the type of plants you want to grow could be living closer than you think. It is also a great approach to promoting your ecosystem by supporting local wildlife. Native animal and bug species can be your second pair of hands that can help your balcony garden thrive. Don’t be discouraged from introducing non-local plant life to your balcony garden. Just be sure that you have the right conditions for it to thrive.
Accessories!!!!
What’s the point of making a garden if you’re not gonna accessorize? You may not have much floor space, but don’t forget you can go vertical and think outside the rails. You can install and utilize your balcony space to the max with the following gardening products:
- Trellises
- Tiered planters
- Hanger baskets
- Railing Baskets
- Plastic/Fiberglass pots (lightweight)
Final Thoughts
Recycle old shelves and stands to save money. Small greenhouse units designed for small spaces can be purchased for climate control and plant protection. Add feeders and baths to draw some wildlife that can assist in the health of your garden. Remember to check your lease rules on what is and is not allowed on your balcony. Your dream balcony garden is just a few pots and baskets away, so don’t limit yourself based on where you live.
