The time for spring planting and sowing season is approaching, but not everyone lives in a house with a garden or a home with outdoor gardening opportunities. But if you’re in the mood for a little greenery on your balcony, don’t think twice, get started! You need not to worry if you live in a rented flat, only a small balcony/loggia is enough, or just a window sill.
Good planning = 
half the success
All successful projects are preceded by careful planning. This is no different when it comes to a balcony garden. In order to sow the right seeds or buy the right plants that will thrive on your balcony, it’s important to get some basic information first.
● What is the orientation of the balcony? Knowing the exact light conditions is essential to choose the right plants. You have quite different options if your balcony is north-facing than for a west, south or east-facing garden. The seed packet usually indicate the light, heat and other requirements of the plant. If you seek success, take this information seriously! Do not plan to put plants that prefer partial shade or shade in full sun, or vice versa. Don’t be discouraged if your balcony does not face in the orientation you want it to, there are plants that will thrive in any light conditions.
● What is the prevailing wind? It’s good to know how windy the place you want to plant your garden is. If you get a lot of strong winds or rain during summer storms, or if you’ve ever had things picked up and blown away by the wind, you should consider shorter plants and make sure your taller ones are supported.
● How much space do we have? Part of the planning process should include how much space we have to create our dream oasis on our balcony. We shouldn’t fall into the trap of “over-planning”. We should rather aim to choose fewer plants to create plant communities for which we can provide optimal conditions and space.
● Once we have chosen the plant species that we would like to have on our balcony, plan what soil and nutrients they will need and how much. Do not plant plants that prefer compacted soil in loose, sandy soil. Now that you have decided to bring a little nature to your windowsill or balcony, strive for naturalness. Choose nutrients that are of natural origins. You can buy pelletised manure or garden soil enriched with mature manure – they all have one thing in common: if you choose these, you don’t have to put up with any unpleasant smells. Alginite or other natural horticultural zeolite products can also be a good choice.
It is advised to choose clay pots, planters and even flowerpots, because although they are more expensive, they are less likely to overheat in the summer heat. In addition, they are being made of natural materials. Even during the planning stage, we should think about how we will manage the water supply to our garden during our holidays or getaways. „Self-drinkers” could be a great idea for solving this problem, or asking a friend or a family member who would be willing to take on the task.
We could go on and on about which plants, fruits and flowers to choose. We wouldn’t make the mistake of leaving anything out, as the aim of this article was more to get you in the mood for spring gardening, whether it happens on the balcony, patio or windowsill. Believe me, the first sight of your own strawberries, balcony tomatoes or the first pot of burgundy-leaved basil will be an unforgettable experience!