Greening A West-Facing Balcony: Essential Planting Tips for Optimal Sun Exposure

A west-facing balcony can be a great spot for sun-loving plants, but it's essential to choose the right ones and plan carefully for optimal sun exposure.  In this post, we'll talk about the necessity of optimum light exposure for balcony plants and give you a rundown of vital planting suggestions for west-facing balconies.

Image by Gabor Jeszenszky from Pixabay 

Characteristics of west-facing balconies

• West-facing balconies receive sunlight in the afternoon and early evening.
• They are generally warmer than other orientations due to the direct exposure to the afternoon sun.
• They may also experience more wind and dryness due to the prevailing westerly winds.

Factors that affect sun exposure on west-facing balconies

• The height and orientation of surrounding buildings can block or reflect sunlight.
• The season and latitude affect the angle and intensity of the sun.
• The presence of shading elements such as trees, awnings, or neighboring balconies can reduce sun exposure.

Choosing Plants for a West-Facing Balcony

While choosing plants for a west-facing balcony, keep in mind their sun exposure requirements. Consider the following options:

Plants that thrive in direct sunlight:

• Succulents such as aloe vera, agave, and jade plant
• Herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage
• Flowers such as marigolds, petunias, and sunflowers
• Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers

Plants that can tolerate partial shade:

• Ferns such as Boston fern and maidenhair fern
• Flowers such as impatiens, begonias, and lobelia
• Vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, and kale
• Herbs such as mint and parsley

Plants to avoid on a west-facing balcony:

• Plants that require a lot of shade such as ferns and mosses
• Plants that prefer cooler temperatures such as azaleas and rhododendrons
• Plants that are sensitive to hot, dry conditions such as fuchsia and begonia

Containers and Soil

Choosing the correct containers and soil for growing on a west-facing balcony is critical for the health of your plants. These are some key aspects to consider:

• Choosing the right containers: Select containers that are appropriate for the size of your plants and your balcony space. Also, make sure they have proper drainage holes.
• Selecting the appropriate soil for balcony plants: Use high-quality potting soil that contains organic matter and is specifically formulated for container gardening. Avoid using soil from your garden, as it may not provide the necessary nutrients and drainage that potted plants require.
• Importance of good drainage: Balcony plants require proper drainage to avoid root rot and other moisture-related difficulties. Check that your containers have drainage holes and consider adding a layer of rocks or gravel on the bottom to assist drainage.

Watering and Fertilizing

Proper watering and fertilizing are essential for the health and growth of your west-facing balcony plants. Here are some tips to help you:

Watering requirements for west-facing balcony plants

Watering requirements for west-facing balcony plants can vary depending on the type of plant, size of the container, and weather conditions. As a general rule, plants in smaller containers will need more frequent watering than those in larger ones.

How to avoid overwatering

To avoid overwatering, make sure the soil is dry to the touch before watering again. You can also use a moisture meter to check the soil's moisture level.

Fertilizing frequency and types of fertilizers to use

Fertilizing frequency and types of fertilizers to use will also vary depending on the type of plant. Generally, balcony plants will need to be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. You can also use organic fertilizers like compost or fish emulsion for a more natural approach.

Protection from Harsh Weather

Strategies to protect balcony plants from extreme heat

Growing plants on a west-facing balcony mean dealing with harsh weather conditions that can adversely affect their health. Here are some strategies to protect your plants from extreme weather:

• Provide shade using a sun umbrella or shade cloth during the hottest part of the day.
• Water your plants regularly and ensure that the soil stays moist to prevent them from drying out.
• Use mulch to keep the soil cool and moist.
• Choose plants that are heat-tolerant and can thrive in hot and dry conditions.

How to prevent wind damage on a west-facing balcony

Wind can be a major problem for plants on a west-facing balcony, as the winds are usually stronger in the afternoon. Here are some tips to prevent wind damage:

• Create windbreaks using screens or curtains to protect your plants.
• Use heavy pots or containers to anchor your plants.
• Avoid tall or top-heavy plants that are prone to falling over in windy conditions.

Preparing plants for cold weather

Preparing your plants for cold weather is also essential, even on a west-facing balcony. Here's what you need to do:

• Move your plants indoors or cover them with blankets or frost cloth during cold snaps.
• Water your plants well before a freeze, as moist soil retains heat better.
• Choose plants that are hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures.

Summary

Creating a thriving balcony garden on a west-facing balcony can be challenging, but by following essential planting tips such as selecting appropriate plants and utilizing shade structures, it is possible to achieve optimal sun exposure for your plants. With a little effort and patience, you can transform your balcony into a green oasis and enjoy the benefits of fresh air, relaxation, and improved well-being.