My secrets to getting the most gardening out of your balcony – 3 pretty plants can take a good battering if it’s windy

A GREEN-FINGERED property expert has revealed the best plants for a flourishing balcony garden.

She said how much sunlight the area of your home receives and weather conditions are big factors when deciding between plants.

Camilla Lesser is a property development expert at the UK-based rental company Essential Living.

Speaking to The U.S. Sun, she shared her must-try tips for making the most of a small balcony.

WIND WARRIORS

Lesser said whether you’re living in a high-rise flat or townhouse, plants can add color and texture to your space.

She recommended considering how exposed your balcony is before splashing out on the most extravagant options.

She warned that gardens often battered by wind need plants that withstand harsh weather.

“Strong winds can often dry out the soil, knock over tall plants, and rip off flowers,” she said.

“Invest in beautiful plants such as Hardy Geraniums, Hawthorn, and Allium Christophii.

“They will provide beautiful pops of colour to your balconies, whilst being more susceptible to windy weather conditions.”

SHADE SURVIVORS

Lesser said it’s important to consider that compost and concrete can be heavy and to avoid putting too much weight on your balcony.

She recommended using light plastic containers if your balcony is fragile or small.

She said the shade the area gets is another factor to think about before deciding on plants. 

“If it’s shady, choosing shade-loving plants such as Snowdrops, Bellflowers, Siberian Bugloss and Hardy Cyclamen will be perfect additions to your balcony garden,” she said.

She added that not every plant needs full shade.

“Partial shade means that plants need only three to six hours of shade a day whereas full shade plants need three hours or less,” she said. 

Herbs such as Lavender, Rosemary, and Oregano will be perfect for filling your balcony with the sweet smell of summer.

Camilla Lesser

“Primroses love the morning sun, but thrive the best in partial to full shade, whilst Begonias also do well in a variety of conditions.”

“If you want to grow some herbs as well, Parsley, Chives, Mint, and Coriander survive well in shady gardens – although a little bit of sun now and then wouldn’t be a bad thing.”

SUNNY SHOWSTOPPERS

While many homeowners enjoy soaking up sunrays, Lesser warned that some plants will scorch if they’re positioned in direct sun.

“Plants such as Petunias are true sun lovers and thrive in this environment, but make sure there’s a small amount of shelter to protect them from rain,” she said.

“Creeping Zinnias are also vibrant decorative plants for your balcony as they are easy to care for and love to grow in sunlight. 

“Herbs such as Lavender, Rosemary, and Oregano will be perfect for filling your balcony with the sweet smell of summer, whilst next to these beautiful flowers.”

She said peppers and chilies are among the vegetables that add color and embrace direct sunlight.

Tomatoes, squash, and beans can also be grown on sunny balconies.

SPACE SAVERS

Lesser recommended that homeowners with limited space for growing plants invest in a trellis. 

She said the panel can add texture and color to balconies. 

“Opting for plants such as Clematis, Ivy, and Jasmine are some of the easiest plants to grow, whilst also livening up dull walls,” she added.