Balcony Gardening Basics
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| Wind can quickly dry out hanging balcony plants. |
By Jenny Peterson
When gardeners downsize from larger houses to condos, lofts, and apartments, the scope of their gardening changes also. While they once had expansive backyards for perennial beds and vegetables, they now have balconies and terraces. If you find yourself in this situation, keep in mind some practical aspects of gardening up high—here are some tips from a gardener who's been there
Watering
Watering can be a real challenge for balcony gardeners; when the weather heats up, it's not uncommon for plants to require watering once a day or even more. Use 2-gallon watering cans to expedite this chore, or look into installing some drip irrigation or using one of those long coiled hoses that hook up to the kitchen sink. Water crystals in your potting soil can also help to keep your potted plants hydrated.
Wind
Even lower balconies can be windy, and the wind can dry out plants and knock over planters and accessories. Use planters that have some heft and consider using an eyebolt with fishing line to secure your plant stands to wood trim or railings. If you anticipate bad weather with high winds, take your more precious planters and accessories inside for protection.
Storage
Look for pieces that do double duty: tall planters for stashing potting soil, or attractive covered wicker trash cans that double as a side table and storage. Every piece on the balcony must earn its keep—no lazy garden accessories allowed!
Cleanup
Sweeping around balcony furniture and pots can be tricky, and if you have a railing or an outdoor rug, it's often difficult to sweep underneath it. Try a hand-held vacuum or blower to make this chore fast and easy.
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