Not all of us have multiple acres to do some landscaping or even a garden to grow some pretty flowers. Mostly within the city, all there is, is a balcony. Still, this little piece of land outside can become your own green oasis if you want to. By creating your own balcony garden you’ll enjoy the health benefits and the gorgeous colors when the flower bulbs bloom during spring and summer. In this article we’ll tell you all about how to grow your own garden on your balcony!
What is a balcony garden?
You might wonder how an entire garden could fit on a balcony, but believe us when we say it can. A balcony garden is in fact exactly what the name entails, a garden located on a balcony. Often a balcony has limited space which asks for a creative way to use the space that there is. To save space to plant your garden you can use the technique of container gardening. You can even make your own planters from floppy disks if you’re feeling creative. Don’t be afraid to think vertically as well. A lot of plants grow even better when they have the freedom to go up or down, for instance, vines such as pole beans. Other greens that grow wonderfully on a balcony garden are: leafy greens, herbs and bush vegetables. You could think of spinach, thyme and tomatoes.
Some tips to get started with the garden on your balcony
1. Locate the hardiness zone you are in
The USA is divided in several hardiness zones, which are based on average annual minimum temperature. It is important to know in which hardiness zone you are, so you can get familiar with what kinds of plants and flowers will thrive there.
2. Stick to the customary rules of gardening
Even though a balcony garden might ‘feel’ like it’s different from a regular garden, it is in fact not. It needs the same care and attention as a garden on the ground. Considering your plants and flowers, be sure that they get enough sunlight, have rich soil and give them enough and regular water.
3. Keep a change in seasonal weather in mind
Not all plants can survive the harsh winter conditions. If you want to see them bloom again or reap what you’ve sown in spring, be sure to take your plants inside when the temperature drops.
4. Maximize your space any way you can
Due to the space you have, be sure to make your garden balcony as efficient as possible. You could use hanging baskets, little planters or even put plants in your windowsill.
Ideal plants for a balcony garden
Vines, leafy greens, bush vegetables and herbs are fun to plant and grow, but if you prefer some more color you should take a look at plants. These plants below are perfect for any balcony garden.
Begonias
These flowers are perennials, which means they will bloom year after year. Begonias are kept best in a lightly shaded environment.
Chrysanthemum
This beauty comes in all kinds of colors, shapes and sizes. The last quality makes it especially fitted for a balcony, since not every balcony has the same mass. They do need some space and expand, so even with a few flowers your balcony will look great.
Pansy
When planted in window boxes or pots and kept in mild temperatures, this flower will thrive. Some will even have a face, such as in Alice in Wonderland.
Tulips
This beautiful kind of flower has a lot of varieties. They come in a multitude of colors and shapes. They are fairly easy to care for and enjoy a spot fully in the sun or half shade. If you feel like changing up the design of your balcony, this annual is a perfect fit for you.
Fuchsia
As we mentioned before, some plants and flowers do best in a vertical garden. This perennial with drooping flowers looks great in hanging baskets.
Hydrangea
If you have a limited space that has lots of sun, a hydrangea is your go to flower. They have a spherical shape and like watering often and a lot of it, in combination with all of that sunlight.
Petunia
These flowers are definitely sunbathers as well. They come in different colors and grow easily.
Plant & Bloom is a breeding company that’s mission is to spread the joy of gardening and help everyone become a DIY gardener with beautiful flowers. With premium quality flower bulbs and our special gift boxes we set out to fulfill our mission. If you’re not sure where to start? If you would like some more information on flower bulbs and planting them? Then take a look at our blog. If you’re all ready to start, head on over to our shop. Experience the joys of gardening!
