Balcony gardens

 

Balcony gardens bring the outdoors into apartments and can provide an oasis of greenery supported by both edible and screening plants that provide wind shelter and privacy, even a place for birds and other fauna to visit.

 

Top tips for successful balcony gardens

 

Plant to suit the aspect. Most balconies on upper floors, regardless of the direction they face, will need tough, wind-tolerant plants. South-facing balconies are mostly shaded except in summer so try palms, ferns and succulents for a tropical retreat. North-facing balconies can make excellent use of deciduous vines and plants to let in winter sun and provide summer shade. Use herbs and tough cottage and native evergreens-many native shrubs are particularly good in windy conditions.

Use vertical and overhead space. Plant walls with creepers and decorate overhead ceilings with hanging plants and trailers for a verdant and living space.

Balcony vegetables will grow quite well in pots and containers but do provide some protection from winds while letting in the sun. Use an outside layer of screening vines and plants that protect from scorching or strong winds.

Water-wise pots. Balcony gardens are more susceptible to drying out. Use self-watering pots and water-pots (terracotta and ceramic pots that sit near the roots and slowly leak the water added via a small mouth just above soil level) as slow-drip irrigators in a balcony garden.

Use live screens. Plant climbers and deciduous vines along railings and balustrades to provide summer shade and aid cooling breezes.

To view an example of a thriving balcony garden, visit the EcoCentre. Also check out the Balcony of Dreams blog for case studies of great balcony gardens.