Balcony Gardening

Practical guides for growing edibles on balconies, terraces and rented outdoor spaces.

A balcony can be surprisingly productive. The trick is to work with its quirks: wind, weight limits, strong sun or deep shade, and the fact that every pot has to be carried up the stairs.

Balcony basics

• Check the weight. Wet compost is heavy. Favour a few medium containers over one huge one, and use lightweight pots or grow bags where you can.
• Read your light. Note how many hours of direct sun the balcony gets. Six or more suits tomatoes, peppers and strawberries; less suits salad leaves, herbs like mint and parsley, and fruit bushes such as gooseberries.
• Plan for wind. Taller crops need staking and a sheltered corner. Low troughs along the floor or railing are steadier.
• Water often. Containers in sun and wind dry out fast. Saucers and grouping pots together both help.
• Renting? Choose freestanding pots and railing planters that don't need fixing to walls, and protect the floor from drips.

Not sure what will thrive in your conditions? The free What Can I Grow Here? tool matches crops to your space and sunlight.