A condo balcony is usually planted with flowers to provide beauty and a scent that are pleasing to humans, but many do not realize that a balcony garden can provide benefits that far surpass those of the simple flowers that were planted. In fact, studies have shown that the benefits of planting a balcony garden on the first-floor of an apartment are very beneficial to residents. Those benefits are greater exposure to pollinators and nesting opportunities. These benefits are more than enough reason for apartment gardening experts to suggest that balconies are planted with flowers and vegetables.
Apartments, especially those with small gardens, are often visited by birds, rodents, insects, and other pests. Some of these insects may damage expensive household appliances. While we want to keep our building clean and maintain pest free, planting plants that attract specific types of pollinators, like bees and butterflies, may provide a healthy way to combat problems of both a physical and psychological nature.
Pollination is necessary for plant growth, and certain plants, such as the California poppy, are known for being especially sensitive to changes in the environment. The pollen that a California poppy produces, called calendula, is particularly sweet to bees, butterflies, and other insects that feed on the flowers. Each of these pollinators contributes to the pollination process, but without them, most plants would fail to thrive.
It has been found that flowering plants such as the California poppy are able to absorb more pollen from neighboring flowers. This increased absorption gives these plants a leg up in pollination. By planting a balcony herb garden, you can draw bees and other pollinators into your garden. This, in turn, will draw the pollinators away from nearby flowering plants, which will reduce the amount of pollination that takes place. The result is that you have a healthier garden overall.
Another important factor with apartment gardening is watering. Most people forget to water their gardens, and the result can be unhealthy soil and plants. With a little care, however, you can ensure that your apartment gardening experience remains healthy and happy. When you are finished eating your lunch, take a minute to water the area. Continue to do this throughout the day, especially after you finish eating so that you don’t run out of water.
It is also important to be sure that you are getting the right herbs for your garden. Some common herbs that are useful are basil, mint, cilantro, oregano, parsley, Rosemary, and thyme. These should all be found in local supermarkets, and some of them, such as Rosemary and thyme, can also be found online. Make sure that you are planting these herbs in pots rather than on the ground.
You should also be aware of insects that can harm your garden. Common pests include wasps and beetles, and there are some that can actually destroy the plants. There are natural pesticides available, such as those made from plant extracts. You should also be sure that there is nothing underneath the plants that can get damaged and check regularly for leaks or cracks that can let down unwanted pests or animals.
A balcony garden is the perfect addition to an apartment or condo. Not only does it give you the ability to have fresh herb garden food, it also gives you a place where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. It gives you a place where you can sit back and read a book while basking in the sun. Above all, it is a great way to add curb appeal to an apartment or condo.