Balcony botanicals: Top plant picks for year-round greenery

Balconies in apartment blocks can become a green haven for plant enthusiasts. Selecting species resistant to fluctuating weather conditions allows you to enjoy greenery all year round. English ivy is a highly recommended option for shaded balconies where sunlight is scarce.

English ivy is an evergreen climber that is resilient to various weather conditions. Before winter, it's advisable to protect its roots with polystyrene or bubble wrap. Another suggestion is common periwinkle, which retains its green leaves throughout the year and adorns the balcony with small flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white from April to August.

For those who prefer more vibrant colours, creeping wintergreen is recommended. This evergreen shrub changes colour from dark green to purple in the cooler months, and in summer, it blooms with white, fragrant flowers. Wintergreen thrives in sun and shade, making it a versatile balcony plant.

In addition to year-round plants, trees and climbers are also recommended for balconies. Among them:

• Jade, also known as the money plant, is one of the most popular balcony plants. It is easy to cultivate and requires minimal watering, making it ideal for busy individuals.
• Boxwood, which performs excellently on balconies. Its evergreen leaves add elegance and style, and the ability to shape it into various forms makes it an attractive decorative element.
• Clematis is one of the most spectacular climbing plants for balconies. Its flowers come in varied colours and shapes, allowing for the creation of unique compositions,
• Petunia is captivating with its lush blooms and array of colours. It is easy to grow and flowers until the first frost, making it an excellent choice for the balcony.