How to Grow on a Balcony

Sketch your balcony on graph paper to determine the size and locations of the plant containers, in proportion to the size and space available. Determine the amount of sunlight the balcony receives, and mark it on the graph so you choose plants accordingly. While some balconies receive full sunlight, others may be exposed to partial or full shade, especially if they are recessed.

Draw features you want to include on the graph paper. For instance, draw a trellis along the rail to provide privacy from your neighbors. Mark the locations for pots, keeping the taller ones along the edge and the smaller ones in front. Keep the sunlight requirements of the desired plants in mind when marking pot locations. Make use of vertical space by hanging lightweight planters or hanging baskets from the ledge. Work out all possibilities on the graph paper, until you are satisfied with the sketch of your balcony garden.

Install a 5- to 6-foot wooden or bamboo lattice trellis along the rail. Depending on personal preference, place the legs of the structure in containers to anchor it in place, or secure it to the wall on each side with hooks. Grow climbing plants in the containers and train them to cover the trellis, transforming it into a green wall.

Drag plant containers to their determined spots. Refer to the detailed sketch for accurate locations. Stagger the arrangements in corners, by placing the largest ones in the back and the smallest in front for added depth and color. Insert evenly spaced metal hooks into the ledge on your balcony for hanging containers.

Pour quality potting soil amended with organic matter in each pot until three-fourths full. Loosen the hole around the center of each pot and lower your desired plant into it. Back fill the soil in the hole and tamp to remove trapped air. Suspend hanging baskets from the hooks along the ledge.

Install trellises or cages into the larger pots to support climbing plants. Attach growing tendrils of climbing plants to the support structures with elastic ties.

Irrigate the plants frequently to keep them from drying. Mulching the soil helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool. Fertilize the plants with a water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks, according to label directions.