With all the hustle and bustle that comes with living in a big city, it’s easy to forget what nature has to offer. The smells from the park, the sounds of birds chirping nearby, the sight of leaves blowing in the wind – these are all things that we could easily lose sight of if we didn’t spend time outside every day. Today we’re going to be talking about how you can incorporate some greenery into your daily life by adding a balcony garden.
Tips for Planning a Balcony Garden
When it comes to balcony gardens, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, consider the amount of sunlight that hits your balcony throughout the day. This will help you determine which plants will do best in your space. You’ll also want to make sure you have enough room for all of the plants you want to include. If you’re limited in space, consider hanging planters or using vertical gardening techniques.
Once you have a general idea of what you want to include in your garden, it’s time to start planning! Begin by sketching out your garden design or creating a digital version using a program like SketchUp. This will help you visualize the final product and make sure everything fits perfectly in your space. Then, it’s time to choose your plants! Be sure to select varieties that are well-suited for growing in containers and that won’t outgrow your space too quickly.
Finally, it’s time to get planting! Start by adding some soil and compost to your containers, then add your plants and water them well. Once everything is in place, be sure to give your new garden regular TLC – water regularly, fertilize as needed, and deadhead spent flowers. With a little love and care, your balcony garden will soon be blooming!
Types of Plants to Plant in a Balcony Garden
There are plenty of types of plants that can thrive in a balcony garden if given the right care. Here are some great options to consider for your own space:
- Ferns: These shade-loving plants add a touch of tropical flair to any garden and can be easily grown in pots or hanging baskets.
- Herbs: Many herbs, such as basil, oregano, and thyme, do well in containers and can provide fresh flavor to your meals.
- Lettuces and other leafy greens: A salad garden is a great way to make use of a small space. Look for compact varieties of lettuce and other greens that will do well in containers.
- Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are good choices for balcony gardens since they don’t require as much space as full-sized varieties. Just make sure they have plenty of support so the fruits don’t weigh down the plant.
- Flowers: Add some color to your balcony garden with annual flowers that can be planted in pots or hanging baskets. Be sure to choose varieties that are suited for container gardening.
Accessories for a Balcony Garden
There are a few key accessories that can really make or break a balcony garden. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Pots and Planters – Obviously, you need something to put your plants in! But there are so many options available when it comes to pots and planters, it can be tough to choose. Consider the size of your balcony when picking out pots – you don’t want them to be too big or too small. And think about the style of your home – you want the pots and planters to complement the overall look.
- Outdoor Furniture – This is a must if you want to enjoy your balcony garden to the fullest. A comfy chair or bench is essential for relaxing in, while a table is great for enjoying a cup of coffee or a glass of wine in the evening. Again, consider the size of your space when choosing furniture and opt for pieces that fold away or can be stored easily when not in use.
- Lighting – String lights are a popular choice for balconies as they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to set up. But solar-powered fairy lights are also worth considering as they don’t require any wiring. Whatever type of lighting you choose, make sure it’s weatherproof so it can withstand the elements.
- Decorations – From wind chimes and bird feeders to sculptures and mirrors, there are endless possibilities when it comes to décor.
How to Make the Most of Your Space
If your home has a balcony, you’re lucky! Balconies provide a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors without leaving home. But what if your balcony is small?
Don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your space. Here are some great ideas:
- Get creative with furniture.
- Use plants to create privacy.
- Hang string lights for a magical touch.
- Add a rug or carpet for comfort.
- Accessorize with seating cushions and throws.
- Create an outdoor kitchen or dining area.
- Install awnings or canopies for shade.
- Add a water feature for a calming effect.
- Use mirrors to make the space feel bigger.
- Use bold colors and patterns to add personality.
Maintenance: Time, Irrigation and Fertilizers
Assuming you want tips for keeping your balcony garden healthy:
Watering: How often to water depends on many factors, including the type of plants you’re growing, the size and type of pot they’re in, the time of year, and whether your pots are in a sunny or shady location. Use your finger to check the soil moisture before watering. As a general rule, most plants need 1-2 inches of water per week.
Fertilizing: Fertilize your balcony plants every two weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer designed for flowers or vegetables. Follow the package directions for application rates.
Pruning: Periodically prune your plants to remove dead or dying leaves and stems, as well as to shape them into the desired form.
What Not to Plant in Your Balcony Garden
When deciding what to plant in your balcony garden, there are a few things you should avoid. Here are some plants that are not well-suited for balcony gardens:
- Tall, vining plants. While these may look lovely, they can quickly become unmanageable and take over your space.
- Sprawling plants. These types of plants can also become unruly and take up too much space. Stick to smaller, more compact varieties.
- Thirsty plants. Plants that require a lot of water can be difficult to keep water in a small space like a balcony. Choose drought-tolerant varieties instead.
- Invasive plants. Many common garden plants can be quite aggressive and spread rapidly. Avoid these if you don’t want them taking over your entire balcony!
- Pest-prone plants. Some plants are just more susceptible to pests and diseases than others. Pick varieties that are known to be resistant to pests and diseases in your area.
Ideas for Different Surroundings
If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony, there are plenty of ways to turn it into a beautiful and practical space. Here are some ideas for different settings:
For a sunny spot:
– If your balcony gets plenty of suns, you can grow just about anything. Consider planting some herbs or vegetables, or go for a more decorative approach with flowers.
– A sun lounge or deck chair is a great way to make the most of the space and enjoy the good weather. Add some cushions for comfort and privacy.
– A small table and chairs set is perfect for enjoying breakfast in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening. Place them in a shaded area if possible to avoid getting too hot.
For a shady spot:
- If your balcony doesn’t get much sunlight, you can still create a lovely space with some potted plants that don’t need much sun to thrive. Ferns, bamboo, and philodendrons are all good options.
- A hanging basket is another great option for a shady balcony. Fill it with ferns, ivy, or other shade-loving plants.
- If you want to be able to sit out on your balcony even when it’s not sunny, consider investing in an outdoor umbrella. This will provide some shelter from the elements and allow you to enjoy the fresh air no matter what the weather is like.
Wrap up
If you’re looking for some balcony garden ideas to add a little life to your outdoor space, we’ve got you covered. From potted plants and hanging gardens to vertical planters and window boxes, there are plenty of ways to transform your balcony into a green oasis.
So what are you waiting for? Get started on your balcony garden today!
