No garden? No problem. A surprising amount of vegetables, herbs and flowers can be grown successfully on a balcony or terrace. You just need to know the basic rules and choose the right plants. In this article we focus on ten tried-and-tested species that any complete beginner can manage.
Before you start: aspect and conditions
The most important factor for balcony growing is the orientation of your balcony. South- and south-west-facing balconies get the most sun and suit tomatoes, peppers and most vegetables. East- and west-facing balconies provide enough light for herbs and leafy vegetables. A north-facing balcony is the most challenging — you'll do best with shade-tolerant plants like mint or parsley.
The second factor is wind. Upper floors tend to be windier, which increases evaporation and can damage plants. In these conditions, choose shorter, compact varieties and make sure watering is more frequent.
1. Cherry tomatoes
Compact cherry tomato varieties are the ideal choice for a balcony. Varieties such as 'Balcony Wonder', 'Tumbling Tom' or 'Vilma' need no staking and crop prolifically in containers from 10 litres upwards. Plant out after 15 May in the sunniest spot on the balcony. Water regularly in the morning — in hot weather even twice a day. Feed weekly with a tomato fertiliser.
2. Basil
Basil is the queen of balcony herbs. It needs a warm, sunny position and regular watering. Grow it in a pot at least 15 cm in diameter. Pinch out the growing tips regularly — the plant will branch out and won't go to seed. Don't pick individual leaves; always remove whole sprigs just above a pair of leaves. Basil is an excellent companion for tomatoes — it deters aphids and is said to improve the flavour of the fruit.
3. Peppers
Choose compact varieties for the balcony — something like 'Hamík', 'Visual' or balcony chilli types. Peppers need a warm, sunny position and a container of at least 10 litres. Plant out after 15 May. Peppers love warmth and a balcony can actually be an advantage — the heat trapped against the house wall suits them well. Feed with a high-potassium fertiliser once the fruit has set.
4. Lettuce
Cut-and-come-again lettuces are made for the balcony. They grow fast (harvest in 4–6 weeks), don't need deep containers and tolerate partial shade. Sow successionally from March through to August for a continuous harvest. A window box just 15 cm deep is sufficient. Pick the outer leaves and leave the heart — the plant will regrow and you can harvest again and again.
5. Radishes
The fastest vegetable for a balcony — from sowing to harvest in just 25–30 days. Sow into a window box at least 15 cm deep, spacing seeds 3–4 cm apart. Radishes tolerate light shade. The key to success is even moisture — if you alternate between drying out and waterlogging, they become woody and pungent. Sow successionally every 2–3 weeks from March to September.
6. Mint
Mint is virtually indestructible and will even grow on a north-facing balcony. Always grow it in its own dedicated container — in a bed it would spread uncontrollably. It needs regular watering but otherwise is low-maintenance. On a balcony it actually does better than in full sun, where it can get too hot. Fresh mint for tea, lemonade or salads is unbeatable.
7. Chives
Chives are a perennial herb that will last several years on a balcony. Grow in a pot 15–20 cm in diameter in a sunny to partially shaded spot. Harvest by cutting whole clumps with scissors down to just above the soil — they'll regrow. In spring they produce attractive purple flowers that are edible and make a beautiful garnish for salads. They can be left outside through winter — chives tolerate frost well.
8. Chilli peppers
Balcony chillies are decorative and productive at the same time. Compact varieties such as 'Apache', 'Prairie Fire' or 'Basket of Fire' form bushy plants covered in colourful fruits. Chillies love warmth and sun — a south-facing balcony is ideal. Grow in containers of 5–10 litres. One plant produces dozens of peppers. Harvest continuously from July through to October.
9. Petunias
If you want to add colour to the balcony as well, petunias are the classic choice. Trailing varieties cascade beautifully from window boxes and flower continuously from May until the first frosts. They need a sunny position and regular feeding with a flowering-plant fertiliser. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. A combination of different colours creates a striking display.
10. Geraniums (Pelargoniums)
Geraniums are a traditional balcony flower for good reason. They're resilient, flower for a long time and cope well with the occasional forgotten watering. Trailing varieties are ideal in window boxes; upright varieties suit individual pots. Geraniums love sun and warmth. Feed weekly with a liquid fertiliser. They also have the bonus of deterring mosquitoes.
Practical tips to finish
Use a good-quality container compost — it's lighter and retains moisture better than garden soil. All containers must have drainage holes. Place a layer of gravel or crocks in the bottom. Water in the morning so water doesn't evaporate in the midday heat. And remember: on a balcony, moisture evaporates faster than in a bed, so watering needs to be more frequent.
Balcony gardening is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh vegetables and herbs even if you live in a flat. Start with one or two plants and gradually expand. You'll find it's addictive.