Balcony Gardening in India, How to Start, Ideas

Introduction on how to start Balcony Gardening in India: Gardening on a balcony is just what it sounds like – a garden on a balcony. In urban settings, container gardening is a common practice due to limited space. Plants can grow vertically in pots or containers is supported by a trellis sized according to your balcony’s size. In balcony gardens, you can improvise and reclaim what has been taken from nature. A small apartment is easily transformed into something splendid by growing plants and vegetables or anything that suits the ingenuity of the apartment dweller. The use of hanging baskets, pots, jars, and planters vertically on a balcony wall is just a few of the many available suggestions to create a balcony garden. Planters can also be attached to balcony railings to free up space while preventing movements from being hindered.

What type of plants to grow in the balcony in India?: Almost all plants can be grown in India after gathering all the garden accessories and working on essential points. Beginners should start with the easy-to-grow plants below, which need relatively more minor care than other plants.

  • Tomatoes
  • Celery
  • Spinach
  • Lettuce
  • Cucumbers
  • Beans
  • Broccoli
  • Radish

Plants that occupy a lot of vertical space are recommended for small balconies. A balcony decorated with flowering plants is an excellent addition.

  • Jasmine
  • Begonias
  • Rose
  • Pansy
  • Petunia

A balcony is used to grow all herbs. Most of the herbs grown in India grow on balconies.

How to start balcony gardening in India – A bignners guide

Growing Spinach in Balcony in India
Growing Spinach in Balcony (Image source: pixabay)

Understand your balcony garden’s natural conditions: You won’t get much benefit from buying a variety of colorful plants to beautify your balcony garden if you don’t know whether the conditions are conducive to their survival. For example, plants require specific types of weather for growth. Some plants grow well on balconies with lots of sunlight, while others prefer shade.

Sunlight and wind: Find out what you can do to protect your balcony. If you don’t know whether the conditions on your balcony are suitable to grow the plants, it is useless to buy them. The sun is not necessary to grow some plants, though some do better with less light. In addition, some plants require indirect sunlight, and others require shade to survive. Some plants can withstand heat, and some plants cannot. The wind can curl some plants up and kill them, while others dance in the wind. When it is always windy on your balcony, you will have to water the plants often. Calculate how many hours of sunshine your balcony gets and how much wind it receives.

Watering: For most plants, you need to water them twice during the summer – early in the morning and late at night.

Consider low-maintenance plants: According to your balcony’s location and the weather, choose the right plant. Choose plants that are easy to care for and don’t need much attention. Aloe Vera, snake plants, and money plants can be grown on your balcony. Plants like these can survive without water for days. In addition to growing vertically around a rail, money plants can also be grown in a vase. Incorporate plants and flowers that can withstand drought in your garden. Among these plants is the bougainvillea. Despite its vibrant appearance, it is resistant to neglect. Consider growing flowers such as marigolds and begonias, which take little maintenance and look good on a balcony.

Select the suitable plant types for the balcony garden: The right plant is chosen according to the balcony’s location and the weather.

Choosing plants for low balconies: Shade plants are ideal on a balcony on the lower level because sunlight is limited. In addition to ferns and orchids, you can also use pepperoni, succulents, and African violets.

Plants for windy balconies- A balcony plant should withstand the strong winds of a balcony. Therefore, avoid plants that have a thin stem that is easily broken. Succulents, crotons, and cacti are the best plant species to choose for balconies like these.

A balcony garden with a lot of afternoon sun- These balconies are ideal for plants that can handle harsh sunlight. For example, bougainvillea and geranium grow best in sunny balconies.

Plants that require morning sunlight include- During the early morning hours, the sun is far milder than during the afternoon hours. Consequently, flowering plants that need partial shade will thrive in these spaces. These gardens thrive with Peace lilies, Anthuriums, and begonias.

Enclosed balconies- Plant growth can be affected by the flow of air on covered balconies. Plants can be used in balconies to purify the air since they thrive in these conditions. In enclosed balcony gardens, you’ll find spider plants, aloe vera, and azaleas.Before choosing plants for the balcony, it’s a good idea to get expert advice.

Skipping on fertilizers: You must provide your balcony garden with sufficient water, sunlight, and nutrients, as well. For this exact purpose, fertilizers are used; you can either purchase container-specific fertilizers or go for compost. The latter is organic and environmentally friendly.To keep your plants healthy, mix some fertilizer into the soil every two weeks. Fertilizer usage must be regular for potted plants since they quickly deplete, and regular watering dries them out.

Beginners’ ideas for space-covering gardening on a balcony in India

The idea of balcony gardening is probably one of the newest ideas for gardening. Due to a lack of space, many people were previously unable to garden. Condos and apartments do not even have enough yard space for gardens. Balconies are now being transformed into gardens across the globe. Both beginning and expert gardeners can benefit from this relevant concept. You can have fun and feel fulfilled when you make a balcony garden. However, sometimes the most challenging part is getting started. Check out some of the best balcony gardens below. Take note of the designs that grab your attention as you browse. Consider how you want to utilize your balcony space. Is your priority to have a flower garden, a vegetable garden, an outdoor living space, or some combination?

In some cases, balconies are built to complement an existing home’s style. The budget you have available needs to be considered. You can create a beautiful space on a balcony without spending a lot of money, thanks to many balcony garden ideas. A balcony’s exposure to sunlight is another thing to consider. The plants you choose can be determined by it.

Last but not least, when are you planning to use your new area? For a balcony primarily used in the evenings, you may need lighting. Creating a balcony garden designed to meet your gardening needs can be accomplished with adequate planning.

Sunnyside: The balcony garden is bright and sunny. Fruit trees thrive in the sun, making a sunny balcony the perfect place to grow your fruit. It is not necessary to have matching pots to create a wonderful balcony garden. By attaching a white umbrella to the balcony railing, the plants are offered protection from the sun. In addition to the toys and fabric lampshade, this is also a place that a child will enjoy. Over the cafe table, a hanging light provides a means to use this balcony at night.

Scrap wood: Rustic and straightforward describe this balcony garden. An urban garden combining rustic wood and light uses vertical space to create a welcoming environment. The design is easily replicated by using two wood pallets or scrap wood. Wooden flower boxes are made from that. Since the balcony floor is covered only by the wall, the balcony floor is kept clean, and valuable floor space is spared. A dull room is filled with the light scent of tea candles. With a bit of creativity and a little knowledge, you can design your balcony garden.

Micro-park: Is it possible to have a small yard and garden on your balcony? It’s possible to have both when creating a balcony garden design. You can create an outdoor space in your apartment or city yard by using AstroTurf on your balcony floor. Kale is presented in colorful and edible wooden crates. The balcony railing is used to grow additional plants in this design by hanging garden boxes. Adding a pop of fuchsia color to this predominantly green landscape is a great touch. Tiny terra cotta pots line the side of this balcony, displaying even the tiniest herbs.

Vertical terra cotta: If you want to garden on your balcony, never underestimate hooks. Hanging baskets or terracotta pots work perfectly with them. It consists of metal rods connecting the pots using bolts and washers. A striking aspect of this design is how the pots are staggered to add visual interest. The metal rods also create a rain chain between the pots, allowing water to flow from the top down. In this way, you can save water from draining to the ground by watering the top. Both flowers and herbs would look great with this design.

Upcycled garden: The wooden crate used here creates a raised garden. Without bending, it is easy to take care of the plants from the height. By modifying your balcony, you can easily create a lovely raised vegetable garden. Small auto, motorcycle, lawn, and specialty shops may have free wood crates. Food crates are also used in grocery stores for produce and wine. You can save money by reducing the amount of dirt you need by arranging an empty milk jug, soda bottle, or unusable pot under the beds in the lower half.

The hanging garden: It is unnecessary to have a large footprint for garden balconies to be practical. Using hanging pots and baskets is essential for balcony gardens in a narrow area. Plants can flourish in often forgotten areas of the ceiling, thanks to this design. Planters attached to the balcony railing is another great idea since it takes up no additional space. There are a few pots on the ground on this balcony’s end, reserved for floor space. Seating and tables can be arranged on this small balcony since most of the garden is planted overhead and sides.

Deck balcony: Add wood deck tiles to the design of your balcony garden if you wish to have a deck. It can be installed by a DIY over your existing balcony floor relatively quickly and easily. The peaceful, low-key design is maintained by using neutral colors and textures. It proves everyday items can be transformed into stylish planters for your balcony garden decor, as this patio fruit tree grows from a galvanized can. Adding one purple flower to a galvanized container in a matching design creates a light, bright feel to this balcony garden.

Tiny space, great color; Bright colors add emphasis to this tiny balcony garden design. Well-placed colorful pots completely changed the look of this bland wall. They help keep the plants organized without drawing attention to themselves. With wood flooring on both floors, the home’s design is brought outside. A brightly colored ottoman further enhances the home’s decor by complementing the pots. In addition, the balcony can be enclosed with a net to allow fresh air to enter and unobstructed views to be viewed from home, without worry that birds or leaves will fly in.

Petite, yet hardy: It is not better to be more prominent on this tiny garden balcony. Plants don’t have to die if you don’t like to keep them alive. Make succulents and cacti your houseplants instead. Their hardiness and drought resistance make them both excellent plants. Planters facing the house make this design unique, as they are viewed from within the house. You can grow cilantro, mint, and basil in your balcony garden if you look for edibles. They are hardy, low-maintenance herbs. The pink flamingo adds a splash of color to this balcony garden decor.

Economy friendly: Consider using wood boards as your canvas for your balcony garden vision if it is more rustic. Having them stained any color and to your liking lets, you create a custom look. The garden looks exceptional when paired with a rustic home design. The decor element is continued by using a multitude of planters covered in wood. It is composed of ferns, succulents, and greenery as its foundation. It’s a visual delight to see this garden balcony sprinkled with color. A living wall mimicking a forest floor can complement the existing decor of the home.

Plants for beginners in India to grow on the balcony

Arabian Jasmine: The Arabian Jasmine flower constantly blooms throughout the summer. An intoxicating fragrance fills the atmosphere of a balcony when this plant is grown.

Rose: A rose garden is incomplete without roses. There are several different colors, scents, sizes, and cultivars available. For best results, choose an area that gets plenty of sunlight. It is considered to be one of India’s best balcony plants.

Spider Plant: The green and cream foliage of spider plants looks charming. You can grow them hanging on a wall or in a pot—a good plant for a balcony garden in India.

Croton: Croton foliage stands out for its vibrant mix of red, green, and yellow tones. Bright sunlight intensifies the color of the leaves.

Aloe vera: This plant has many medicinal properties, so it is a great plant to have on the balcony. Your fresh supply will come from growing it.

Chili: Chili plants and sunny balconies are the best combinations to go. Grow them on your south- or west-facing balcony if you have one.

Tomatoes: Choose a determinate tomato variety if you want fuss-free gardening. While you can also use in terminate types, be prepared to stake them in place if necessary.

Herbs; Herbs can quickly grow in an airy and sunny balcony area. Planting rosemary, basil, mint, cilantro, dill, and thyme are some of the best things you can do.

In case if you miss this: How To Start Poultry Farming In Kerala.

Growing Herbs In Balcony (Pic credit: pixabay)
Growing Herbs In Balcony (Pic credit: pixabay)

Tips for gardening in the balcony for beginners in India

  • A soil test determines your garden soil’s pH level and micronutrient content. If you cannot find a garden center nearby, you can also test your soil at home.
  • Are you aware of when you should transplant your plants? Planting in the late afternoon is best on a sunny day with the wind. The morning is the perfect time to go out on a cold, cloudy day. An evening time is optimal if it is a hot, humid day.
  • While many gardeners enjoy the feel of soil on their hands, hands-on gloves prevent calloused hands, insects, and potentially many soil-borne diseases.
  • Ensure your soil is moist when pulling weeds. Because weeds pull away quickly from damp soil, weeding is simple when the soil is moist.
  • Make sure your balcony is not too heavy. Discover whether there are any restrictions on the weight of pots and other rules where you stay. Verify whether planter suspensions on railings are permitted.
  • In balconies where there isn’t enough sunlight, shade plants are ideal. Ferns, orchids, and peperomia are some of the plants you can grow.
  • Having plants that can withstand wind in your outdoor space is essential. But, of course, crotons and cactus will also flourish. It is best to place bougainvillea on sunny balconies because these plants can endure harsh light and neglect.
  • Instead of large pots that take up space on a balcony, opt for tiny containers. The books are placed on the ground or on a table or shelf.
  • Clean the floor as much as possible, especially when space is limited.
  • Pots and containers need to be appropriately trained as well. Plastic pots won’t allow water to drain correctly, making them worse for drainage than terracotta pots. Overwatering and root rot can be prevented by having drainage holes. To prevent water from drain holes from leaking down, place saucers under the pots.
  • To grow plants and vegetables, you can use old containers, jars, or rain boots.
  • It is also possible to grow vegetables with portable grow bags. Using them is easy and economical. Bring in some weather-resistant furniture, like wicker and synthetic resin to make the most of the nooks and crannies of your balcony. Color your cushions and pillows with vibrant hues. For your morning tea or coffee, set up a simple table and a couple of chairs.
  • The conditions must be met. Put some shade on your balcony if it’s sunny. Build a windbreak if it’s windy. There are plants such as Areca palm and bamboo that can be used to hide a poor view.
  • Just as you paint your walls, consider painting your balcony walls and adding lighting and garden accessories to your garden.

Commonly asked questions about gardening in the balcony for beginners in India

How about this: How To Start Organic Farming In India.

Balcony Gardening Questions
Balcony Gardening Questions (Pic source: pixabay)

1. What is the best way to maintain a balcony plant?

  • Water daily and fertilize every two weeks or every ten days at half the recommended dosage.
  • Don’t forget to deadhead the flowers once a week and trim the plants once a week, removing dead or damaged parts.
  • You can use clay pots. Keeping the soil cool is one advantage of clay pots.

2. What is the recommended watering schedule for balcony plants?

Depending on the species and the season, most indoor plants only need to be watered once or twice a week. Outdoor plants, however, rarely follow this schedule – in some seasons, you can leave them alone for a month or two, while potted plants need to be watered twice a day in summer.

3. What is the best way to keep a plant balcony clean?

Plant Higher, save space by reducing the number of floors. Then, please place them in the baskets that are tied to the balcony railings. Your balcony will appear larger and more spacious with this view. Alternatively, you can use hooks that are mounted on the ceiling to hang plants.

4. What do I need to do to get a small garden started on my balcony?

Choose plants such as coleus, ferns, impatiens, Hostas, and begonias that do well in low light, such as those facing north or shaded by other buildings during the day. The sun is not required to grow greens like chard, spinach, or lettuce. It’s excellent for cooking, too, since some herbs manage to do it.

5. How can a balcony grow easy plants?

Leafy Greens, the balcony garden is an excellent place to grow greens of any variety. Leaf lettuce, kale, spinach, radicchio, collards, and more, will overgrow, but they are easily trimmed.

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