Taking advantage of the walls to cultivate even on very small balconies is a brilliant idea for those who dream of a green corner but have little space available. With some precautions, it is possible to transform every vertical centimeter into a real suspended garden.
Imagine opening the door door and see an explosion of colors and perfumes that climbs along the wall. You don’t need a huge terrace, just a little creativity and the right tools to give life to a luxuriant micro-garden. Is it not fascinating to think that even the most bare wall can accommodate aromatic herbs, strawberries or climbing flowers?
Sometimes you just need to hang an old shelf to create vertical space. You could even use plastic bottles cut like small hanging vases. And if lights were added between the vessels, the effect would be truly magical and welcoming.
Ideas for a vertical garden on the balcony
Those who think they need great surfaces to cultivate themselves wrong. With a vertical gardeneven the narrowest balcony can turn into a green oasis, a corner of peace in the midst of urban chaos. A few metal grid, a wooden panel or fabric pockets hanging on the wall is enough. These systems allow you to fix the vases one above the other, using the vertical space and creating a visual effect that immediately affects the eye.
Another much loved solution are the Recycled pallets. Just fix them on the wall, insert jute bags filled with earth and plant basil, parsley, salad or even strawberries. If desired, they can be painted to add a touch of color. It is interesting to note how these vertical gardens also improve the aesthetic of the balcony, transforming it into a welcoming and fragrant corner where you willingly stop even to breathe a little green.
Those who prefer a more modern look can opt for modular planters who fit as bricks or for vertical hydroponical systems, perfect for growing without earth and keeping everything in order. Some use even old fruit boxes, tied together, to create a living and unusual wall.
Ideal plants to grow vertically
Not all plants are suitable for a vertical garden, but some lend themselves very well and may surprise for their adaptability. Among these are:
- Aromatic herbs: basil, rosemary, mint and sage grow well even in a small space, giving perfume and flavor.
- Vegetables: salad, rocket and dwarf peppers are perfect for the vertical pockets and are easily gathered at hand.
- Climbing plants: Edera, Jasmine and Clematide can cover walls and create natural shadow, transforming the balcony into a green refuge.
- Strawberries and flowers: They add a decorative touch and are easy to manage, attracting bees and butterflies.
Before choosing, it is useful to consider exposure to the sun. A balcony exposed to the south requires plants that resist well in direct light and summer heat, while on one side in the shade it is better to focus on species that tolerate little light, such as ferns or violets. In this way every corner finds its ideal plant and the result will be luxuriant and varied.
How to keep your vertical vegetable garden luxuriant
A fundamental aspect is irrigation. You can use a simple watering can, but for those who have little time there are drip systems with timer, perfect to guarantee plants the right amount of water. It is also useful to collect rainwater in a container, so you save yourself and provide more natural hydration.
The choice of soil is equally important: it must be light but capable of retaining humidity. Add a layer of expanded clay on the bottom of the pockets or pots helps to drain the excess water and avoid stagnation that could damage the roots. Some recommend enriching the ground with domestic compost to give a more gear to the plants.
The small details also make the difference. Hanging lanterns or lights between plants creates a magical atmosphere on summer evenings. A wooden mat or a folding seat can complete the space and entice to enjoy the balcony. And why not add a small support for gardening tools? So everything will be at hand and you will no longer have to look for scissors and watering at the last moment.
After all, transforming the walls of the balcony into a vertical garden is a way to make the most of each centimeter, bringing a touch of nature even in the city. It is worth trying: a few elements are enough to create a green corner that will surprise each guest.
Photo © Stock.adobe
FOLLOW CASTLI NEWS ON
