Verbena: The new star of summer balconies
Verbena is a plant that blooms profusely throughout the summer, thriving in full sun. Ideal for balconies and gardens, it not only delights with its fragrance but also offers ease of cultivation. Furthermore, it has a potent scent. Could it replace the geranium, the traditional queen of balconies?
A balcony is an ideal place to grow a variety of plants that offer numerous aesthetic and practical benefits. Balcony flowers such as geraniums, petunias, and surfinias, are popular due to their prolonged and abundant blooming. It is worth considering other, less common yet equally beautiful plants. One such plant is verbena.
Instead of buying a geranium, choose verbena
Verbena is an excellent alternative to geraniums, surprising with its resilience and beauty. It flowers all summer, and its scent becomes particularly intense in the evenings. It thrives perfectly both in the garden and on the balcony. While often treated as an annual, some varieties can survive a mild winter.
Verbena loves the sun, and the more light it receives, the better it blooms. It grows best in locations with southern or western exposure. The soil should be light and well-draining, so it's advisable to add sand or perlite to it. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging, so pots should have drainage holes.
Watering verbena should be adjusted to the weather, keeping the soil slightly moist. In hot weather, it is best to water in the morning or evening. Every two weeks, it's beneficial to feed it with fertiliser for flowering plants. Regular pruning and removing faded blooms encourage the plant to grow.
Not just flowers
For plant enthusiasts, balcony trees can be an excellent option. The jade plant, also known as the money tree, and boxwood are plants that not only enhance the décor but are also simple to care for. Miniature fruit trees, such as citrus trees or columnar apple trees, can provide delicious fruits and add extra colour to the balcony.
Vegetables and fruits on the balcony are a good choice for those who wish to enjoy their own harvests. Tomatoes, chilli peppers, and berry fruits like strawberries or blueberries are ideal for growing in pots. The key is to provide the right conditions, such as adequate sunlight and regular watering, for the plants to grow and produce fruit.
