Want to grow your green thumb but don’t have a lot of space? Is your balcony in dire need of some greenery? If you answered yes to either of these questions, balcony gardening might be exactly what you’re looking for.
It might be challenging to know what to grow and how to ensure it thrives when you have limited space and resources, but it’s definitely not impossible. There are several ingenious ways you can turn your balcony into a verdant oasis, no matter what size it is. With the use of the magic wand of DIY-in in gardening, you can easily turn your vision into reality.
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How Can You Arrange Your Balcony Garden?
Making smart moves and assessing your balcony situation is the first step to starting a fruitful garden. Even if your balcony doesn’t have a lot of square footage, there are still ways to make the most out of the space.
Find the Right Planters
First and foremost, you need to make sure you find an appropriate balcony planter for the specific needs of your plants. Some greenery, like vegetables or herbs, require more depth for their roots, while others might need to sprawl out. Others, like succulents, don’t need a lot of space at all.
Consider what you want to grow and find a planter that will allow your plants to reach their full potential. If you’re starting small, try using hanging baskets or wall-mounted planters to make the most of your space. These are also great options if you’re worried about your plants getting too much sun or wind.
The size of your balcony planter can have a big impact on how well your plants grow, so make sure to do your research before making a purchase. Knowing the specifics of what you want to grow will help you make the best decision for your terrace garden.
The shape isn’t exactly a deal-breaker when it comes to planters, but it can affect the aesthetic of your balcony garden. If you want something sleek and modern, go for a rectangular planter which can easily be tucked into a corner. For a more whimsical look, try an urn or a barrel planter.
These days, you can even find self-watering planters that will help you keep your plants healthy and hydrated, even if you’re away from home for a few days. Even if you’re at home but have too much on your plate to remember to water your plants every day, these can be a lifesaver.
Drainage is also an important consideration when it comes to planters. Make sure the one you choose has drainage holes so your plants don’t get waterlogged. You can always drill additional holes if necessary.
Focus on Functionality
When you’re working with a limited amount of space, it’s important to make sure that every element in your garden serves a purpose. That doesn’t mean that everything needs to be utilitarian, but try to put an emphasis on items that will help you make the most out of your balcony.
For example, vertical planters are a great way to add greenery to your space without using up a lot of valuable floor space. Their upwards orientation also means that they’re perfect for plants that need a lot of sunlight.
You can also use trellises or lattices to support climbing plants like ivy or roses. Not only will they look beautiful, but they can also help you create a bit of privacy or wind protection.
Think About the Sun
When you’re picking out plants for your balcony garden, it’s important to think about how much sun exposure they’ll be getting. If your balcony gets a lot of direct sunlight, opt for plants that can tolerate those conditions. Cacti, succulents, and herbs are all great options.
Otherwise, focus on plants that need partial or filtered sunlight. Ferns, impatiens, and begonias are all good choices. Position them so that they’re getting the right amount of light, and don’t be afraid to move them around if they’re not getting enough or too much sun.
You can also use sun-blocking materials like shade cloths or umbrellas to create a more comfortable environment for your greenery. This is especially important in the summer when the sun is at its strongest.
Enjoy the View
One of the best things about having a balcony garden is that you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re relaxing on your own or entertaining guests, your balcony should be a place where you can kick back and enjoy the outdoors.
Make sure to take advantage of your garden’s location by choosing plants that will complement your view. If you’re lucky enough to have a stunning vista, focus on plants that are low-maintenance and won’t block the view. Ornamental grasses, potted trees, and vines are all good options.
Those with less fortunate views can create their own oasis by planting tall bushes or trellises covered in climbing plants. This will not only provide you with some privacy but can also help block out unsightly buildings or busy streets.