If you don’t often get the chance to rejuvenate in the midst of nature, there’s an alternative: introducing plants to your home. Beyond adding a lush touch to your everyday life and enriching your decor, plants have the power to relax and soothe you. And, of course, the balcony is an ideal setting for your fragrant planters and blooming pots. However, before setting up this green space, be aware that not all species are suitable for this environment. Some might even harm you or annoy your neighbors. So, which plants should you avoid on the balcony, and which ones fit perfectly? We reveal all.
Plants That Struggle on a Balcony
You might have guessed it: while various resilient plant species acclimate perfectly to the balcony setting, others might die prematurely when cultivated in this spot. The reason isn’t mysterious: direct exposure to sunlight can cause irreparable drying out of the plants, without giving you any time to intervene.
Camellia: A Sensitive Plant
For instance, if your balcony faces due south, excessive light can wreak havoc, especially on delicate plants like camellias. Those with gardening knowledge will recognize the importance of choosing an apt location and positioning for plants. A golden rule? Sunlight should never be directed straight onto the foliage. Instead, aim for a shaded and ventilated area.
The Threat of Windy Environments
Apart from the sun, even a notably windy environment can harm delicate plants. Beware of strong drafts; if they’re powerful and frequent, they’ll undoubtedly impact the health of your green companions. In essence, placing plants on the balcony is no simple task, given the many factors to consider.
Selecting the Right Plants for Your Balcony: What to Avoid
Orchids: Delicate Beauties
Orchids serve as a prime example. These stunning flowers require light but should avoid direct sunlight. As such, they aren’t suited for outdoor living. It’s best to place them near a window, shielding them with curtains or blinds.
Winter Cactus: Sensitive to the Sun
Among the plants you should steer clear from placing on your balcony is the winter cactus. This species thrives in cooler temperatures, around 10°C, and can’t withstand direct sunlight. Conversely, don’t position them near heat sources like fireplaces or radiators when indoors, as it could also be harmful to them.
Large Plants: Avoid Overcrowding
Besides the delicate and fragile species, also rule out overly large plants! The idea is to keep your balcony spacious and uncluttered to maintain its aesthetic appeal. It’s crucial to correctly gauge the size before purchasing plants to ensure easy movement on your balcony. If they’re too large, they won’t fit. For pot cultivation, avoid plants with bulky roots; they won’t fit in your small pots!
Climbing Plants: Beware of Overgrowth
Similarly, be cautious with climbing plants. While they are highly ornamental, they might inconvenience your neighbors if they spill over to their windows or balconies.
Spiky Plants: Safety First
Lastly, and understandably, it’s wisest to avoid all spiky plants. It’s no fun getting pricked every time you step out onto the balcony.