Start Your Own Balcony Garden With These 7 Hacks

While most balconies have limited space, you can max out your options by adding trellises and working vertically. Trellises are optimal pieces to keep on your balcony as pretty, sweet-smelling flowers prefer to climb, as well as ivy and some vegetables.

Invest in some hooks and some macrame plant hangers, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a balcony garden that is pure serenity. Hanging succulents or other potted plants will add depth to your space and make it that much more aesthetically pleasing.

Similar to trellises, tiered ladders allow plants that grow vertically to flourish. You can also make the most of the steps with fresh herbs, flowers or other potted plants. You can also use the rungs to hang intricate pieces, making the space more visually appealing.

Don’t leave any ledge unturned and fill them with hanging planters; this is also an optimal solution for plants that require a lot of sunlight. Fill your pots with flowers, vegetables or fresh herbs.

Pull out the mini table sets, rugs, hanging chairs and lighting fixtures. Playing with different pieces of furniture and funky features will make your balcony garden feel like a place to do the obvious — grow produce — but also a place to relax, read, sunbathe, practice yoga or whatever your heart desires.

Unlike backyard gardens, balconies may have overhangs or other features obstructing direct sunlight. The smartest route may be to choose plants that require less sunlight and maintenance overall. You can also strategically place mirrors to maximize the amount of sunlight that hits them.

Since you are not working with the ground, the more obvious solution seems to be potted produce. Herbs and certain kinds of produce, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, peppers, lettuce and a few others, may be the safest to grow and can make a fresh addition to your refrigerator.