Having a balcony garden is a great way to add some greenery to your home and enjoy the outdoors. But with so many plant options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some tips to help you choose the right plants for your balcony.
What do you want to grow?
In terms of options, you have basically two: food vs flowers. The choice isn’t that simple. Flowers contribute to beautiful balconies & nothing beats waking up to a balcony full of blooming flowers, but it can be equally hard to give up on having fresh herbs to throw into your favourite recipe. Having a mix of both is also an option, but it can get a bit complicated when you are just starting out. Read our article on cross-culture agriculture.
Consider Your Climate
The first thing to consider when choosing balcony plants is your climate. If you live in a hot and sunny area, you will need plants that can handle the heat and direct sunlight. If you live in a cooler climate, you will need plants that can handle the cold and frost.
Think About Your Balcony's Orientation
The orientation of your balcony is also an important factor in choosing plants. If your balcony gets a lot of sunlight during the day, especially in the afternoon, you will need plants that can tough it out.
Choose Plants That Fit Your Space
The size of your balcony will also determine what types of plants you can have. If you have a small balcony, you will need to choose plants that don't take up too much space. Consider using hanging baskets or vertical planters to maximize your space.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Finally, consider your lifestyle when choosing balcony plants. If you don't have a lot of time to care for plants, you will want to choose low-maintenance options. If you love gardening and have more time to devote to your plants, you can choose more high-maintenance options. Read about our top 10 low-maintenance herbs that you can grow to put some spice into your cooking.
Research Your Options
Once you have considered your climate, balcony orientation, space, and lifestyle, you can now start researching the different plant options that are suitable for your balcony. It's best to choose plants that are native to your area and are well-suited to your climate. You can also consider plants that are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance.
Consider the Aesthetics
Aside from the practical aspects of choosing balcony plants, it's also important to consider the aesthetics. Choose plants that complement your balcony's overall design and colour scheme. Consider the textures, shapes, and heights of the plants to create a visually appealing arrangement.
Don't Be Afraid to Experiment
Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different plant combinations and arrangements. Try mixing different colours, textures, and heights to create a unique and visually appealing balcony garden. Read about our 10 basic guidelines for plant care and maintenance to ensure that your plants thrive.
With these tips in mind, you can choose the right plants for your balcony and create a beautiful and relaxing outdoor space. Happy gardening!