Create a balcony garden

With many Australians now calling high-rise apartments home, more people than ever are looking for ways to bring the beauty of nature into their small spaces. And balconies have become important focal points for urban gardeners who want to nurture their green thumbs. As landscape designer Adam Robinson says:“ When you bring plants into your living space, into your garden, onto your balcony or courtyard, what you are doing is inviting nature to be in your life – and that can only be a good thing!” Here are some tips and tricks to get the most out of your balcony garden.

Before you start…

Get up close and personal with your balcony or patio space. Take a good look at its size, how much sunlight it gets at different times of the year, and any challenges, like wind or limited space. That way, you can make sure to pick the perfect plants and features for your balcony.

Wind
If you are in a high-rise apartment, you can guarantee there will be some wind, and you’ll want to make sure your garden can handle it. Strong winds can tear leaves and knock over pots, so opt for sturdy materials and hardy plants. Use bigger pots so your plants won’t need watering as often.

Sunlight and shade
Balcony gardens usually get light from only one direction. In Australia, east-facing balconies are sunny first thing in the morning but shaded the rest of the day, whereas south-facing spaces are shaded most of the time but can be exposed to hot afternoon sun in mid-summer. For east and south-facing balconies, select shade-tolerant plants and avoid spots with direct sun. There are plenty of plants that thrive in these conditions including camellias, hydrangeas, philodendrons, and sanseviera. West-facing balconies tend to get sun from early afternoon and can be very hot, especially in summer. Go for heat and sun-tolerant succulents. Balconies with deep overhanging roofs are best treated as shaded, so consider selecting from the indoor plant section at nurseries.

Weight restrictions
Check if your balcony has any weight restrictions before loading it with pots and plants. You should also find out if there are rules regarding what you can hang from the balcony’s railing and walls. Using lightweight pots and mulch, and mixing perlite through potting mix will reduce the overall weight.

Privacy
Having a secluded space where you can relax and unwind is often a top priority for a balcony garden and can be achieved by planting in long trough planters. Opt for plants with dense foliage, tall growth habits or climbing abilities. Some popular choices for balcony privacy include tall grasses, bamboo, evergreen shrubs, vines or fast-growing annuals.

Space
Remember to utilise the space you have. If your space is tight, consider a vertical garden. For example, slatted walls covered in climbing plants look amazing and are a great way to add privacy. Plant stands or a vertical herb garden work too.

Suitable plants for your balcony garden

The best plants for your balcony garden depend on the amount of sunlight and shade your balcony receives, the size of the space and the wind factor. Here are some plant types that are well-suited for balcony gardens:

1. Herbs such as basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme and mint. They grow best on a north-facing aspect, as they need plenty of sun to thrive. If you get less than six hours of sun, consider plants like mint, lettuce, beetroot, leek, kale and carrots, which can grow with less light.
2. Flowers such as begonias, camellias, petunias and geraniums will add colour and beauty to your balcony and attract pollinators.
3. Fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, chillies, strawberries and spinach can also grow in a balcony garden, provided they receive enough sunlight and water.
4. Succulents such as cacti and aloe vera are low maintenance and require minimal watering, making them a great choice for busy balcony gardeners. As a general rule, they grow best in full sun to part shade.
5. Small trees such as lemon or olive trees are great options for larger balconies, providing shade and fresh fruit. A north-facing spot is preferable, with full sun for at least six hours a day.
6. Palms are strong and sturdy plants that thrive in semi-shade to full shade. They will help add a tropical touch to your space.
7. Climbers such as star jasmine, climbing hydrangea, creeping fig and ivy can be used to create a lush green wall, or cascade gracefully from hanging pots.

Nature brings with it so many benefits for your health and wellbeing – it brings lifeforce into your surrounds. – Adam Robinson

Consider containers

Select containers that are suitable for both the size of your plants and your balcony’s dimensions. There’s a wide variety of containers to choose from, offering an opportunity to create a visually captivating, layered garden. “The key is to not create too much clutter,” says Adam. “If you have a seriously small space, it’s better to have one really large pot with an amazing lush foliage plant for wow-factor rather than lots of tiny pots with miniscule plants.”

If your balcony is windy, you’ll need pots heavy enough to stand their ground, such as concrete or glazed pots. If wind isn’t an issue, go for lighter options like plastic for ease of movement. For more help choosing the right pot, read our buying guide here.

Furnish

Why have a garden if you can’t savour it to its fullest? Enhance your outdoor oasis by incorporating comfortable patio furniture, creating the perfect spot for a morning coffee or alfresco dining. Here are some things to consider:

• Space: Sectional sofas are a great option for larger balconies or patios, as they provide ample seating and can be configured to fit the space available. Alternatively, if your balcony is small, get a foldable bistro set that can be packed away when not in use.
• Primary function: Consider the intended purpose of your furniture. Lounge chairs are ideal for basking in the sun, while a bar table set can facilitate social gatherings.
• Materials: Look for furniture made of weather-resistant materials that can withstand exposure to the elements. Aluminium or synthetic wicker are great options.
• The style: Is your garden a tropical paradise or inspired by Mediterranean aesthetics? Select furniture with finishes that complement your garden’s theme. “When selecting outdoor furniture for your balcony, there should be some continuity between the style of the interior and exterior, so the flow from one space to the other is consistent and cohesive,” says Adam. “Everything should be in harmony.”
• Safety: Be sure that cushions and light furniture, won’t blow away by storing securely when not in use.

Photo credit: Steve Falcioni’s balcony garden captured by Brent Wilson