What's that lovely scent? That's the sweet smell of flowers on the breeze. Everywhere you look, there are vibrant California Poppies and trailing lavender wisteria vines. It's a picturesque time in the Bay Area.
Eager to get gardening? I don't blame you! The weather is warming up and growing season is in full bloom. But slowing down and planning things out ahead of time can save you aggravation down the line. There are a couple of important things to think about before you run out to get all your new supplies. This week, we will focus on some issues specific to starting a garden on your apartment balcony.
A Few Considerations
There are some key differences in the conditions a plant is exposed to up on a balcony vs. on the ground. The higher the elevation, the greater the airflow. This leads to an increased rate of evaporation from the soil, so you may have to water your garden two to three times more frequently than would otherwise be necessary. The wind will also be stronger, so it’s best not to grow tall, fragile plants that might bend or collapse on a blustery day. If your heart is set on sugar snap peas, I’d recommend utilizing a wind screen or trellis to provide a little extra support and protection. A trellis can be purchased or easily constructed from wood, chicken wire, or netting.
Similarly to how your garden box is an integrated community of living beings, so too is your apartment complex! Whenever possible, we should consider how our actions might impact the people who live around us. If your balcony is directly above someone else’s, make sure the brownish runoff from watering your plants isn’t trickling down onto your neighbor’s space. To avoid this, consider using a ceramic or plastic saucer under your garden pots and try to resist the impulse to over-water. Some planters have built-in removable saucers.
Before you begin planning and gathering supplies, it is important to check in with your landlord or property manager about their policies on balcony gardens. Balconies have a maximum load limit which can be exceeded by too many large containers full of wet, heavy soil. Garden soil is heavy, especially when wet. Make sure to pick up some of the soil labeled as potting or planting mix. These contain a high amount of organic matter which makes them porous and lightweight while possessing a remarkably high rate of water retention.
One final consideration to keep in mind is that your balcony can also serve as a critical escape route during an emergency. You don’t want to do anything to obstruct the access of first responders or hinder your ability to reach the fire escape. (Pot position is key!)
You don't need a plot of land to flex your green thumb! Check out these books that will help you with your houseplants or a container garden.
That's all for this week's blog! Check back next week for more tips on starting your urban garden!
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