Does the secret to cultivating luxuriant aromatic plants even in sunny balconies? Right varieties, suitable containers and targeted irrigation. Find out how to avoid common errors and have perfumed herbs all year round.
The aromatic plants they love the sun, but they do not always grow lush on a Balcony exposed to direct light. The secret? Everything is in the balance between water, container and chosen variety.
Those who have already tried to cultivate basil, rosemary or oregano on a sunny balcony know that it is not always a walk. Often the leaves yelling, the plants dry out too quickly or, on the contrary, rot at the base. So where is the mistake?
Sometimes it takes very little to transform a hot corner of the balcony into a green and fragrant oasis. A targeted choice of the variety, a well thought vase, a light soil … small details, yes, but capable of making the difference. Someone aromatic herbs They seem to be made on purpose to endure the most scorching sun, while others arrange the first summer heat. And often it is not even their fault: the way in which the plant is watering or settles affects more than it is believed.
Here then is a small trick that makes the difference immediately: positioning a draining layer on the bottom of the vase, such as expanded clay or small pebbles, helps to avoid stagnation of water. A simple but effective gesture, especially in the hottest months.
Curious to know which are the most suitable varieties? Or are you wondering how to water without making mistakes? Continue reading: it could change your way of growing the aromatic, even on the most difficult balcony.
Which aromatics resist better in the scorching sun
Not all aromatic balcony plants They are the same. Some love the direct sun and need it to better develop their aroma, others prefer a little shadow in the hottest hours.
Among the most resistant are:
- Rosemary: rustic and adaptable, it grows well even in the hottest climates.
- Timo: prefers the dry, perfect for small and shallow vases.
- Oregano: with the sun it develops an intense and pleasant perfume.
- Salvia: resists drought and fears more the humidity than the heat.
- Lavender: Even if it is not a true kitchen aromatic, attract bees and smells the environment.
On the contrary, Basil, parsley and mint They need more water and prefer a sweeter exposure, perhaps in the morning sun and shadow in the afternoon. In these cases, it is better to place them in repaired areas or use shading sheets.
An often underestimated detail? The rotation of the plants. Moving the vases from time to time, or rotating them slightly, can help to guarantee a more uniform exposure and stimulate balanced growth.
In addition, those who have space for a long planter or for a balcony can take advantage of the consciousness technique: to put together plants that “help” each other. Rosmarino and thyme, for example, balance well in water needs and tend to protect each other from thermal changes.
Another advice? Observe how plants react during the day. Some tend to slightly close the leaves under the sun too intense: in these cases, it is useful to create temporary shadow areas with light curtains or even with other higher plants.
Dicchcio, irrigation and containers: the most common mistakes
It is often thought that a vase is enough, a little earth and some splash of water to grow the aromatic. But the truth is that these seedlings, however rustic they may seem, have rather precise tastes. And ignoring them is the fastest way to find yourself with torn and not very fragrant seedlings.
Il soil It must be light, well drained and rich in organic substances. Universal mixes are fine, but it is better to enrich them with sand or perlite, so as to encourage drainage. A good trick is to mix a handful of earthworm humus, which nourishes the roots without weighing down.
L’irrigationon the other hand, must be regular but never excessive. The roots of the aromatic suffer the stagnation, especially if the vase does not drain well. It is useful to water early in the morning, so as to avoid thermal changes and waste of water. In the hottest days, a second light step in the late afternoon could also be used, only if the soil is very dry.
Finally, the vaso: better to choose terracotta containers, which help perspiration, and not too small. A wide and deep vase allows the roots to develop without stress. Attention also to the position: near clear walls that reflect light and heat, the microclimate can become extreme. In that case, it is useful to protect plants with light sheets or move them to the most critical moments.
Every two or three weeks, add a little natural fertilizer It is a good habit. It can be compost, macerate of nettle or even simple vegetable cooking liquid (cooled): precious nutrients that postpone the plant.
Another useful practice? Regular pruning. Cut the peaks helps to strengthen the plant and stimulates the growth of new shoots. Over time, a thicker, more compact and fragrant bush is obtained.
The aromatic plants, after all, ask for only a little attention and an extra touch of care. Just observe them, adapt to their needs and … trust their green thumb. Even on the most sunny balcony, they can give perfume and satisfaction.
For those who love to experiment, it may be interesting to try less common varieties but suitable for the heat: such as the sanctic, the dragoncello or the Issopus. Not only do they smell, but also decorate the space with unusual shapes and delicate blooms.
And if you want to take one step more, you can create a real thematic aromatic angle: for example a mix of Mediterranean herbs, or a selection designed for refreshing herbal teas. You don’t need much: some well -arranged vases, a small handmade label and a little imagination.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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