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Balcony gardening is already popular around the world. It helps people living in urban areas to have their own mini garden in their homes.
If you’re a regular visitor to my blog, you may know I live in New Jersey and have both a balcony garden and an indoor microgreen garden.
I’ve also worked on other urban farming projects, including hydroponic and pollinator gardens.
If you are a newbie to balcony gardening then you can start your journey by growing low-maintenance plants I have listed in this blog post.
Because these plants are beginner-friendly and do not require much attention. And they save you time too. So here is my list of plants.
Low-Maintenance Plants for Balcony Gardening
1. Succulents
Succulents are the best choice for your balcony. There many types of succulents like Jade Plant, Aloe Vera, and Echeveria.
These are best suited for sunny balconies. These plants store water in their leaves, so you don’t have to worry about daily watering.
I have a small aloe vera plant on my balcony. It has been growing with just a splash of water every couple of weeks. Also, aloe vera is a natural remedy for sunburn.
- Try to place them in a sunny spot.
- It is better if you water only when the soil is completely dry.
2. Herbs for Everyday Use
Herbs are easy to grow on the balcony and are perfect for cooking. You can grow herbs like Mint, Basil, and Rosemary on your balcony.
I’ve been growing herbs indoors for years, but having a balcony herb garden adds a fresh element to meals. I love snipping some fresh rosemary for roasted veggies.
- Always use pots with good drainage for better results
- Also harvesting herbs regularly encourages their growth.
3. Flowering Plants
Everyone loves flowers. They add brightness to our balcony. Flowering plants like Marigolds, Petunias, or Begonias are easy to grow on a balcony.
These plants require little care and give vibrant blooms.
- If you deadhead spent flowers, then they promote continuous blooming.
- Flowers love consistently watering, but avoid overwatering.
4. Drought-Tolerant Plants for Hot Summers
If your balcony gets plenty of sun, then you can go for Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, or Portulaca. These plants are practically indestructible and can handle a little neglect.
In my old apartment, I once forgot to water my snake plant for over a month during a busy work season. Still, it survived.
- try to keep them in well-draining pots.
- Avoid overwatering, as these plants dislike soggy soil.
5. Climbing Plants for Vertical Space
In balcony gardening, you must know how to maximize your small space. The climbing plants help us in maximizing our small space.
Climbing plants like Pothos, Ivy, or Jasmine are good choices for balconies. These plants grow vertically and save lots of space.
- You can use a trellis or railing for support.
- Prune these plants regularly to manage their growth.
6. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses add texture and movement to your balcony garden. You can grow grasses like Fountain Grass and Blue Fescue.
They’re low-maintenance and look stunning in the breeze.
- Trimming them occasionally helps to keep them neat.
- Use a sunny spot for the best growth.
7. Low-Maintenance Edibles
You can grow your own food on your balcony. Plants like Cherry Tomatoes, Lettuce, or Chilliess are easy to grow in a balcony garden.
I experimented with hydroponics at a friend’s house, but growing edibles on my balcony has been even more satisfying.
Raised garden beds are best suited for vegetables. I use Keter Easy Grow garden beds for my balcony garden. These beds have self-watering features and ample depth for root growth.
- Use pots with sufficient depth for roots.
- Fertilize lightly to boost plant growth.
8. Shade-Tolerant Plants
If your balcony doesn’t get much sunlight, then try plants like Peace Lily, Ferns, or Chinese Evergreen. These plants grow easily in low-light conditions and add a cool vibe to your balcony.
- Always keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- You need to avoid placing them in direct sunlight.
9. Drought-Resistant Climbers
If your balcony has railings or you use hanging baskets, then climbing plants like Hoya or Bougainvillea are good choices. They’re hardy and add a vertical element to your balcony garden.
- It is better if you use sturdy supports.
- Water moderately to prevent overhydration.
10. Seasonal Plants for Year-Round Appeal
To become a pro in balcony gardening, you must know about seasonal plants.
For example, rotating seasonal plants like Pansies in winter and Zinnias in summer keep your balcony fresh and exciting all year long. I love the visual refresh it gives my space.
- You need to plan the transition to suit the climate.
- It is better to use lightweight pots for easy rearrangement.
I hope the above list of low-maintenance plants helps you pick the best plants for your balcony garden. You don’t need a large backyard to grow these beautiful plants.
You can easily grow these low-maintenance plants in a small balcony setup.
You start with small, then experiment, and enjoy the balcony gardening process. Your balcony garden will become your favorite spot in your apartment.
