I’m embarrassed to admit this, but I lived with a bare balcony for two years. I only started slowly creating my balcony’s urban garden last year. I started with an outdoor rug and Adirondack chair. Then I tested growing basil, mint, and thyme on a covered balcony with little direct sunlight (which met with varied success).
Though small, my investments made me realize just how rejuvenating it is to sit on your balcony during a Seattle summer. Now that the blooms are budding and the weather is getting warmer, I’m itching to finish what I started and create the urban garden oasis I’ve been envisioning for a few years. Read on for my plans and the items I need to make it happen.
Designing My Balcony’s Urban Garden
The first thing I plan to do is ramp up my urban gardening efforts. I’d love to add a bee hive, but since my neighbors wouldn’t appreciate that, I’m going to stick with growing more herbs and vegetables.
The challenge with my space is that there’s very little sunlight. A lot of plants won’t grow in these conditions, but since I love cooking, failure isn’t an option. I had the idea to try a vertical garden that would save space and also allow for more direct sunlight as the sun rises. That’s why you’ll see some tall plant stands and a watering can below (because chores can still be cute!).
I also want to make my balcony more inviting. That’s why I plan to string up some lights, get some cozy pillows, and add a side table to hold a drink (or three). Once everything is put together, I want to be able to come home after a long day and drink some wine on the porch. Hopefully these items will help me realize that vision.
Shopping Guide:
outdoor pillows: 1. banana leaf pillow – $17+, sunburst and ikat pillow – $17+, hexagon pillow – $36+ | side table: 2. mint side table – $63 | watering can: 3. yellow watering can – $31 | planter stands: 4. wooden vertical garden stand – $145 | 5. white distressed plant stand cart – $110 | outdoor lighting: 6. outdoor lights – $40
Find more items I’ve been eyeing on my outdoor garden and decor Pinterest board.
Heather Patton says
After living with first-floor patios for years (you can’t leave things out or they get stolen), I’m excited that I now have a balcony! I can’t wait to decorate it and spend some of my own Seattle days/nights outside!
Adria Saracino says
Ugh, who would steal outdoor furniture?! The rudest! I’m happy you get to experience the joys of balcony living. Good luck decorating!