Balcony Garden Ideas for Small Spaces

A DIY vertical garden planter can turn you into a balcony gardener, increasing growing space several times over. For tall planters, they can also create a sense of privacy. With multiple levels, there’s room for both edibles and ornamentals, or you can grow a balcony herb garden.

Growing an herb garden is an easy way to bring fresh basil, oregano, rosemary, mint and more to your favorite dishes. Most herbs need a lot of sunshine to grow, so ensure you've placed them in a sunny spot. Learn more about growing a herb garden.

Placing a variety of pots and planters on the balcony is an easy way to add greenery, flowers, herbs and more. Use pedestals to mix up the heights of containers, maximize space and create a more appealing vignette. You can also shop for plant stands to match the look of your space.

When you're purchasing planters for a balcony, be mindful of the weight. Terracotta or ceramic pots filled with dirt can get heavy quickly. Consider composite, resin, vinyl or plastic planters that are stylish, yet lightweight and easy to move.

Learn more about selecting the right planters for your balcony and then we'll show you how to plant a container garden.

When you have a small outdoor space, every inch counts. One easy way to add flowers and greenery is by utilizing plant hooks. Most hooks are made of aluminum or steel and can be affixed to the wall or the ceiling. Use plant hooks to hang bird feeders, wind chimes or hanging baskets.

Hanging baskets are available in rustic, traditional and modern styles to suit any decor preference. They're made of plastic, ceramic, resin, metal and more. Resin planters are lightweight and UV resistant to prevent fading. Ceramic pots with twine (as pictured) look great with trailing succulents.

Trellises and slatted walls are the some of the easiest ways to create visual interest on a balcony. Trellises are made of iron, steel, vinyl, cedar or wrought iron. Use plants and flowers that can climb up the trellis such as ivy, clematis, honeysuckle, jasmine, chocolate vines, climbing roses and more. Before you purchase the plants, ensure that your balcony gets enough sunlight or shade for your particular plants to flourish.

Slatted walls typically look more modern than trellises and work well with wall hangers. As pictured, these round planters affix to the wall and can hold trailing vines, herbs and small plants.

Beautify your balcony with railing planters. They fit on top of your railing to hold a variety of plants and flowers. Most planters are made of lightweight plastic or resin that can withstand the elements. Line up several in a row for a colorful backdrop.

Selecting the right plants for your balcony is key to ensure they flourish. There are a wide variety of plants and flowers to choose from including:

• Climbing vines and flowers
• Succulents
• Dwarf fruit trees, olive trees or tropical hibiscus trees
• Vegetable plants
• Herb plants
• Potted perennials and annuals

It's important to factor in the amount of sunlight, wind and shade that your balcony is exposed to. Use our guide to find the best plants for your balcony. We'll let you know plants that are recommended for your area and how to care for them properly.

More than likely you won't have a hose bibb on your balcony, so there are a few different ways to keep your plants hydrated.

• Use a watering can.
• Purchase self-watering pots and planters. They have a reservoir in the bottom that can slowly release water to the plants as needed.
• Use glass stakes that can provide automatic watering for up to five days.

How do you arrange a small balcony?
Start with placing your furniture, such as a loveseat or a bistro set. Then add planters, hanging baskets and trellises. Allow room to easily move around and water your plants.

What is the minimum space for a balcony?
No matter how small your balcony might be, there's still room to place hanging baskets on hooks or add railing planters filled with plants and flowers.

How do you make a small balcony private?
This is a great time to incorporate vertical gardens. Use a trellis or a slatted wall and fill them with plants and vines. You can also add an outdoor privacy screen.

How do you enclose a small balcony?
First, check with your HOA to determine what the rules are for enclosing a balcony in your complex. You can enclose a small balcony by installing outdoor roller shades or hanging up outdoor curtains. For a long-term solution that’ll keep the bugs away, consider screening-in your small balcony.