Balcony Garden completely changes the environment in and around the home. From the fragrance of the flowers to the produce of the vegetables, it offers a diverse set of benefits. But starting and designing a balcony garden is not an easy task to begin with, which plants to grow in a balcony garden, how to maintain it, when to water the plants, how to cope with diseases, it all becomes very overwhelming for a beginner. This article contains everything you need to know before starting a balcony garden. 

Explore Your Space

Designing a garden in small spaces can be a daunting task, we don’t want to crowd our balcony with excessive plants which would make it difficult to even move around, a good garden has the space for you to sit and delight over the ambiance of it while sipping a coffee or reading a book. One way of ‘creating’ extra space in your balcony is by going vertical rather than horizontal. Using railings and walls for hanging pots is one such idea. We can also utilize the ceiling by putting hangers to it. Railings can be used for creeper plants to hang out and extend a little bit, which can significantly improve the look of your balcony from the outside. 

Most suitable Balcony Garden plants

Almost everything that can be grown in a pot is suitable to grow on the balcony. You also need to figure out how much sunlight your balcony receives, and accordingly, you can plant long-day plants(which require more sunlight hours), short-day plants (which do not require much sunlight), or day-neutral plants. (which bloom independent of the sunlight they receive)

You need to strike a balance between vegetables and ornamentals as per your needs. Completely leave out vegetables if you want a garden only for aesthetic purposes but include them if you wish for fresh organic produce right from your balcony. The most common plants suitable for a balcony garden are – 

1. Herbs:

Herbs such as basil, mint, rosemary, thyme, and parsley are excellent choices. They often thrive in containers and can be used for cooking.

2. Flowering Plants:

Petunias: These colorful flowers come in various shades and are relatively low-maintenance.

Geraniums: Known for their vibrant blooms, geraniums are well-suited for container gardening.

Marigolds: These annuals are easy to grow and can add a splash of color.

3. Vegetables:

Tomatoes: Many dwarf or patio varieties are suitable for containers.

Peppers: Bell peppers or chili peppers can be grown in pots.

Lettuce: Compact and quick-growing, lettuce can be grown in small spaces.

4. Fruit Trees:

Dwarf Citrus Trees: Varieties like dwarf lemon or orange trees can be grown in containers.

Strawberries: These can be grown in hanging baskets or vertical planters.

5. Foliage Plants:

Ferns: Many fern varieties thrive in the shade and add a lush, green touch.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Known for its air-purifying qualities, the snake plant is hardy and requires minimal care.

Spider Plant: This plant is easy to grow and produces cascading baby plants.

6. Cacti and Succulents:

Aloe Vera: Aloe is not only attractive but also has medicinal properties.

Succulents: Various succulent varieties are well-suited for small containers.

7. Climbing Plants:

Clematis: These vines can add vertical interest to your balcony.

Morning Glory: Fast-growing and colorful, morning glory vines are suitable for vertical gardening.

8. Bamboo:

Clumping Bamboo: Some bamboo varieties can be grown in containers, providing a touch of green and privacy.

9. Shade-Loving Plants:

Hostas: These plants are known for their attractive foliage and do well in shaded or partially shaded areas.

Begonias: Many begonia varieties thrive in shade and come in various colors.

Also Read – Most Essential Gardening Tools for Beginners – Palankhet

Choosing Containers for a Small Balcony Garden

Plants on a balcony are to be grown in containers. The containers have a plethora of shapes and sizes. The containers suitable for your balcony depend on factors such as the look and size of your balcony. Small Balcony gardens have small to medium-sized containers that can be either hung on a railing or put on the surface or on raised platforms to create an aesthetic combination with other elements in your balcony.

Care and Maintenance Tips 

Caring for a balcony garden is as cumbersome as starting it. You need to take care of plants such as watering them regularly, scouting for diseases, pollinating them if needed, and pruning them regularly. Try to create a daily schedule that includes watering and scouting for diseases. The frequency of watering depends on factors such as the amount and duration of sunlight received and plant species. Be vigilant against common pests and have natural remedies on hand. Adjust your care routines based on the changing seasons, preparing your plants for different weather conditions. 

Personalizing Your Balcony Oasis

Transform your balcony garden into a personal oasis by adding furniture, decor, and lighting. Consider incorporating comfortable seating, decorative pots, and ambient lighting to create a space where you can unwind and enjoy the beauty of your garden. You can find some of the best garden design ideas on this post of Garden Design

Conclusion

Creating a balcony garden is a rewarding journey that allows you to bring nature into your urban living space. By following these guidelines, you can cultivate a lush and vibrant balcony garden that not only beautifies your surroundings but also provides a peaceful retreat right outside your door. Start your balcony gardening adventure today and reap the numerous benefits of cultivating tranquility in your outdoor haven. Happy gardening!