Balcony gardens - general information and tips

Watering

• Outdoor containers that are exposed to sun and wind dry out faster than those in a protected environment. Use a light mulch on the top of the soil to reduce water loss through evaporation. Consider adding a polymer gel or other water-retentive agent to the soil mixture to prevent it from drying out.

• On average outdoor container plants require good watering every day in summer and every second day in winter; this does vary according to environmental conditions and the nature of the plant material. Deep watering to the point of the water running out of the base of the pot is best, this encourages deep root growth, which affects the stability of the plant and improves its drought resistance.

Insects, pests, and fertilizing

• Balconies that are protected from the wind require less water but are sometimes more prone to insect and fungal infections as the environment offers protection for the pests to breed in. Don’t allow plants to become too overgrown, or thin out dense foliage to allow air circulation through the plants. Remove dead leaf litter. Preventative spraying may be required to keep problems under control.

• A program of regular fertilizing is required to keep plants healthy and improve their chances of survival during the hot months. Use a well-balanced fertilizer that has both macro and microchemical elements so that the plant has a well-balanced diet. Inquire about the specific fertilizer requirements for the plants you have chosen.

• Some plants do not perform well if over-fertilized; for example, Bougainvillea, Adenium, and seasonal plants should not receive a lot of fertilizer as this will result in lush green growth, but poor flower performance. Over-fertilizing can result in fertilizer burn of the plant roots or soft growth that is prone to insect and fungal infections.

General maintenance

• Clear sand and leaf litter from the drainage holes on the balcony regularly to prevent it from blocking. This is very important before the start of the winter season when rainwater could accumulate on the balcony and seep into your apartment.

Adding your own touch

• If your balcony garden has a theme, consider adding a small statue or garden ornament to compliment it, a small Japanese lantern, a bronze bird or even an ornament you bought when you were on holiday can add a personal touch.

• Decorative mulches or stones can be used to define “garden” edges; a vast array of stone and wooden products is available in a range of colors. These again provide a decorative and low-maintenance solution to a small area. Be cautious when using white or light-colored stones or materials on a balcony that receives strong sunlight, lighter materials reflect the light and heat and can cause plants to burn. Mulches around the base of plants can also help reduce the soil temperature of the container.

• Trellises can be mounted against walls to provide a decorative vertical dimension as well as support for climbing or scrambling plants. Before drilling into any wall check where the service such as electrical conduits and water pipes are!

• A small water feature can be added to provide movement and sound to the area. Water should always be circulated to prevent it from stagnating. If the feature is very small don’t add fish to it; the water will heat up too much during summer and the fish will die.

  • Fish require circulation so that oxygen levels in the water can be replenished and fairly regulated temperatures. Fish do, however, control mosquito larvae that may breed in the water. In very small ponds without fish, salt or household bleach can be added to prevent algal buildup and mosquito larvae.

• Citronella candles can be used outdoors in the evening to deter mosquitoes and provide ambient lighting. Ensure that these are securely positioned and extinguished to prevent accidental fires. Hollow stone or pottery jars or lamps can be used so that the candle provides light and a safety feature at the same time.

• Tables and chairs, if the balcony is large enough to use as a seating or entertainment area, then chairs, tables, and BBQs (if permitted) could be introduced. Ensure that all wooden furniture is oiled regularly (lightly every 4 to 6 weeks) to ensure the wood does not dry out, crack, or lose its appeal. Metal items that are not galvanized or made of stainless steel can easily rust due to the high humidity levels. An application of a rust-retardant or lightly wiping these items with an oily cloth can reduce the amount of oxidation (rust).

• Large bulky clothes dryers can be replaced with wall-mounted extension types to reduce the amount of space used so that the utility area can be used for seating or entertainment.

• Wooden decking or decking panels can be laid directly onto the surface of the balcony, this defines the usage of the area; it separates the utility area from the entertainment area – similar to what grass would do for a regular garden. If you are going to add additional lighting to the garden it also provides a good method of hiding the cables and wires.

• Lighting, most balconies are lit, normally with an overhead or wall-mounted light. You may consider adding one or two small up-lighters to enhance a particular plant, add additional lighting, or even as replacement lighting for what already exists. Additional lighting adds another dimension to the garden. Small solar-powered lights are also available, these do normally not provide enough light to entertain, but can enhance the garden without too much cost and bother. Ensure that all electrical connections and joints in the cables are always secure, sealed, and waterproofed to prevent accidental electrocution.

SAFETY FIRST. If you have small children or inquisitive pets make sure that nothing is placed directly against the balustrade that they can climb onto!