How to make a successful vegetable garden on your balcony?

Is there anything more satisfying than enjoying fruits and vegetables from your garden on a hot summer day? Fresh, non-GMO food that you know where it comes from. We tend to envy large country gardens, but it is just as possible to have a vegetable garden on your own balcony. It’s all a matter of proper equipment and, of course, maintenance. This article will share with you the essentials for a successful summer garden.

What to grow ? 

There are several criteria to consider. The space. The amount of sunlight. The level of maintenance you are willing to put in. If your space is limited, choose your fruits and vegetables according to the space they require. Cherry tomatoes, for example, spread out less than zucchini, which require more space. If this is your first garden, it may be better to start with vegetables rather than herbs, as the latter require more maintenance.

Choosing the right flowerpot

The advantage of flower pots is that they don’t take up much space. However, it is essential to choose your pot according to the type of plan. There are two criteria to consider: the size of the pot and its material. A pot that is too small will suffocate the roots, while one that is too large may drown the roots with excess water. Certain materials should be favored depending on the type of plant. Plants requiring a lot of water will prefer plastic pots, while those requiring more aeration will be better in a porous surface, such as terracotta. A little tip: choose a dark pot for your tomatoes and cucumbers to maximize heat gain.

Good soil for healthier plants

Choosing the right potting soil can make a huge difference in the health of your plants. Organic potting soil rather than standard potting soil is a worthwhile investment, as it will provide a solid foundation for the growth of your plants. One type of potting soil may be better than another depending on the type of plant, so it is best to ask around. For a potting soil that will suit the majority of your vegetable garden plans, we recommend Lechuza Pon. This potting soil adapts perfectly to a wide range of varieties to offer an optimal nutrient ratio and water-oxygen supply for months.

Where to place your pot ?

Sunlight is crucial for a healthy vegetable garden. Make sure it gets at least 5 to 6 hours of sunlight per day. Note, however, that not all varieties require the same level of sunlight. Cilantro, for example, may bloom if exposed to too much sun.

Maintenance

Each plant has a particular need for water. We suggest you make a watering schedule to know when to water which plant. Don’t forget to increase the frequency during hot periods! A little tip: make a regular inspection and feel the soil to know if it lacks water. Above all, don’t wait for the lack of water to be reflected in the leaves because once softened, it is difficult to change the shot.

We know that watering can quickly become a job in itself. If you have a busy schedule that makes you forget, or if you’re planning to go on vacation soon, self-watering pots can change your life. The Lechuza brand stands out. We recommend all of them, but we’ll introduce you to the Balconera Cottage 50 to give you an idea of how it works. It can be used both indoors and outdoors, without the risk of sun damage. And don’t worry about excess water – it has a draining mechanism to ensure optimal water levels at all times.

What to groow when ? 

Each variety has its own planting time. Depending on your vision for your garden, you could start it in March-April with cucumbers or later in the summer to focus on lettuce. However, we recommend that you start your preparations and research in the spring to make sure you don’t miss the boat.

You don’t need a big yard to have the garden of your dreams! At Le Balconier, you’ll find a wide range of resources for growing herbs, fruits and vegetables. Get your invitations ready, because soon you’ll be able to entertain your friends with a refreshing salad from your balcony! Step one: shop your pots.