by Balaji Nursery9 Colorful Plants That Will Thrive on Your Balcony
The higher position, with its increased heat and wind, is no match for these container-loving balcony plants.
Adding some plants to any outside area may instantly transform it from a vast, sunny rooftop terrace to a cozy, shaded apartment balcony. Because of their lofty position, these choices can withstand higher temperatures and winds, and they also do well in containers.
1. Golden Bamboo
Those who feel a bit too close to their neighbors might want to consider adding some golden bamboo plants to their space. (Once they reach maturity, you may find that a fence is unnecessary) .These evergreens will expand out of control unless you put them in a 24-inch-wide by 24-inch-deep wooden or terra cotta container. Because golden bamboo is invasive in some sections of the country, notably those in warmer climates, it’s recommended not to plant it in the ground.
Growing Conditions: Full sun to part shade and wet, well-drained soil
Size: 8 to 20 feet tall
Zones: 6-10
2. Succulents
Succulents are easy-to-care-for houseplants, but they also may be fantastic balcony plants, especially if you live in warmer climes. Two kinds in particular that flourish in outdoor containers are sedums and sempervivums, sometimes known as hens and chicks. If you want to keep succulents from rotting, water them once a month or whenever the soil seems dry. Keeping succulents from one season to the next is as easy as bringing their containers inside when the weather turns cold.
Growing Requirements: Soil that drains well and full light
Size: Under 6 inches tall, 6 to 12 inches tall, and 1 to 3 feet tall
Zones: 3-10
3. Fuchsia
This show-stopper is a hummingbird magnet. There are a number of distinct types of fuchsia, most of which bloom in stunning tones of pinks and purples. Make sure to pick a heat-tolerant kind because many fuchsias will stop producing blooms when it’s too hot. These semi-trailers perform nicely in a hanging basket and thrive best with continually wet soil.
Growing Conditions: Full to part shade and wet, well-drained soil
Size: 1 to 3 feet tall
Zones: 8-10
4. Lavender
Several herbs thrive well on balconies, including lavender, thyme, and basil. Of them, lavender undoubtedly has the showiest blooms. This fragrant plant comes in hundreds of types that bloom in many stunning tones of purple or white, so you can add color as well as a nice perfume to your balcony garden. Lavender is drought, heat, and wind-tolerant, too. Plus, you may pick the blossoms and leaves for flavoring food and employing them in creative projects.
Growing Conditions: Full light and well-drained soil
Size: 1 to 3 feet tall
Zones: 5-10
5. Gardenia
Few flowers can compare to gardenias when it comes to smell. These evergreen plants generate beautiful white blossoms that have a strong, sweet aroma that may be sensed from a distance on a breezy day. However, gardenias need lots of humidity and well-drained soil to look their best. These plants can be short-lived since they tend to attract insect pests and are prone to root rot. But even if your gardenia is only for a little while, it’s definitely worth it for its beautiful aroma.
Growing Conditions: Full to part shade in well-drained soil
Size: 3 to 8 feet tall
Zone: 8-10
6. Verbena
Another eye-catching option for balcony gardens is verbena. This drought-tolerant blooming plant works nicely in window boxes or fence pots, where it may spill over the sides. There are many distinct types of verbena in hues, including white, pink, red, blue, purple, and bicolors. Verbena is quite easy to cultivate; however, it sometimes has difficulty with mildew, which appears like a white powdery covering on the plant’s leaves. To reduce this illness, situate the plant where it will have adequate air movement over it and avoid getting the foliage wet when watering.
Growing Conditions: Full light and well-drained soil
Size: 6 to 12 inches tall and 1 to 3 feet tall
Zones: 8-9
7. Geranium
Geraniums have been popular for decades and match nicely with just about any other container plant. Also called zonal geraniums, these drought-tolerant plants come in plenty of brilliant hues, including pink, red, orange, and purple. Depending on the variety, geraniums can be low-maintenance (regal kinds can be a bit finicky). Whatever geranium you settle on, don’t forget to deadhead the plant frequently to keep the flowers coming all season long.
Growing Conditions: Full light and well-drained soil
Size: 6 to 12 inches tall and 1 to 3 feet tall
Zones: 10-11
8. Begonia
Begonias come in all sorts of types, but among the showiest are angelwing and Rex begonias, which have brilliant flowers as well as lovely leaves. These shade-loving plants enjoy increased humidity and love having a steady supply of water. The dead blossoms and wilted foliage are easy to snap off to keep the plants looking clean.
Growing Conditions: Part to full shade and wet, well-drained soil.
Size: 12 to 18 inches tall
Zones: 10-11
9. Mandevilla
The Mandevilla vine is gorgeous and easy to care for. Usually, gardeners grow the heat-tolerant mandevilla as an annual since it dies when temperatures drop to freezing. You may overwinter the blooming vine indoors, but note that it is deadly if it’s consumed, so keep it away from pets and tiny ones.
Growing Conditions: Full sun
Size: 3 to 8 feet tall, 8 to 20 feet tall, and 20 feet or more tall
Zones: 10-11
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