Balcony gardens are not very different from other gardens. These are small gardens where plants are typically grown in containers, given the space of most balconies. However, these gardens need the same level of care and attention as any other garden would. Most balcony gardens are found in apartments and condos and usually consist of small flowers, herbs, and vegetables that don’t grow too high. Below are a few practical tips that can creatively help anyone grow a balcony garden.
Find Out if Growing a Garden is Permitted
Different homes and condos have specific rules in place. Not everything is allowed in all residential areas. Some rental spaces may not be open to growing a balcony garden, possible because the space is not strong enough to take up the extra weight of the added soil and pots. Some landlords or apartment managers do not want additional items on the balconies, so they may not allow one to grow a garden, no matter how small. Ensure you have confirmed such details to avoid getting in trouble.
Select your Plants Carefully
If you are permitted to grow a garden in your home, your next step should be selecting the right plants. The direction your balcony faces determine the best plants to grow. Most edible plants and flowers will thrive if your balcony has significant exposure to the sun. If not, you may be limited to growing herbs and specific flowers only. Before introducing any plants to your balcony garden, make sure you understand this aspect lest all your plants keep dying on you no matter how much water and fertilizer you supply.
Watch Out for Strong Winds
Extreme harsh winds harm plants. Unfortunately, most high-rise balconies experience powerful wind drafts because of their location. Try to identify practical ways to break the wind’s impact by creating a barrier or windbreaker that does not interfere with the sunlight penetration. If you cannot erect a screen, you should consider growing hardy plants such as rosemary herbs and natural windbreakers.
Have a Garden Shed
A garden shed does not have to take up a lot of space. You can create a section near your plants to store all your gardening tools and equipment. Since the plants will require frequent watering and attention, keeping the necessary tools close is convenient. The shed can hold all your irrigation and watering items, gardening tools, planting material, containers, and so much more.
Use the Right Compost and Irrigation Technique
Use a suitable planting medium to hold the plants in place. Choose soil or planting medium that is strong enough to hold large plants and easy to hydrate. Also, use nonporous containers that will retain much of the water. If possible, use automatic irrigation systems to avoid maintenance hiccups. It is possible to forget to water your plants as often as you should with a busy lifestyle. However, your plants will always get watered with an automatic irrigation system, and the excess can drain off.