Even with limited square footage, balconies can blossom into vibrant green havens. This year, balcony garden trends reflect a growing desire for sustainability, a connection with nature, and maximising small spaces. Let’s explore some of the best balcony garden ideas to establish your own urban oasis. And find out how our exterior French doors helped to create some beautiful balcony gardens for an iconic British event…

How Do I Start a Balcony Garden?

Starting a balcony garden is an exciting way to bring greenery into an apartment or top floorspace. Begin by assessing your balcony’s sunlight and space to determine suitable plants.

The best apartment balcony garden ideas include a variety of herbs, vegetables, or flowers based on your preferences and the conditions. Select containers with proper drainage and fill them with quality potting mix.

Place your plants in a sunny spot and provide regular watering and care. Consider vertical gardening techniques to optimise space and add visual interest.

Learn why biophilic design and wellness design are so important by reading our dedicated guides.

Vertical Gardens: Growing Up, Not Out

How do I make my balcony look like a garden? With limited floor space, balcony gardeners are embracing verticality. Hanging baskets, tiered planters, and wall-mounted pockets allow you to cultivate a lush garden without sacrificing precious floor space. Climbing plants like vining vegetables, clematis, and morning glories add a cascading effect, softening vertical walls and creating a private retreat.

Pollinator Paradise: A Buzzing Ecosystem

There’s a growing focus on attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to our balconies. Planting bee balm, lavender, echinacea, and herbs like rosemary and thyme creates a haven for these vital creatures. These beautiful blooms not only benefit the environment but also add a delightful fragrance to your balcony.

Bring the Outdoors in: Patio Doors for Balcony Gardens

The concept of outdoor living has never been more popular which means French patio doors are an excellent choice for a balcony garden. Their large glass panels create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces, maximising natural light, letting in a refreshing breeze and bringing the beauty of your garden into your home.

The wide opening they provide allows for easy access and ventilation, transforming your balcony into an extension of your living area. Additionally, French doors offer a stylish and elegant aesthetic that can enhance the overall look of your balcony garden, making it a welcoming space to relax and enjoy.

Browse our breakdown of the top patio door trends to look out for right now.

Edible Delights: Growing Your Own Bounty

The “grow-your-own” movement continues to flourish, with balcony garden ideas often featuring mini vegetable patches. Compact varieties of tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and even herbs like basil and mint thrive in containers. Imagine enjoying fresh, homegrown ingredients for your next meal!

Sustainable Swaps: Eco-Friendly Choices

Sustainability is at the forefront of current balcony garden ideas.

Upcycled containers like old buckets, crates, and even teapots find new life as planters. Prioritise organic fertilisers and natural pest control methods to create a healthy environment for your plants and the planet.

Water conservation is key, so consider using self-watering planters or installing a drip irrigation system.

Find out how we helped a client in Surrey create an eco-friendly garden building with help from our made to measure bifold doors. Learn more about sustainably made wooden doors and why they’re important.

Creative Colour Play: A Feast for the Eyes

How can I make my apartment balcony cute? Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold shades! Vibrant flower combinations, contrasting textures of foliage, and colourful containers add personality to your balcony. For a cohesive look, choose a colour palette that complements the architectural style and interior design of your property.

Balcony Bliss: A Sanctuary for Relaxation

The ultimate goal of your balcony garden is to create a space for relaxation and enjoyment. Incorporate comfortable seating, string lights for a touch of magic, and a small table to create an inviting outdoor haven. Surround yourself with greenery and enjoy the sights, sounds, and serenity of your urban oasis.

Balcony Gardens at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024
The Ultimate Inspiration

Did you hear the news? Our bestselling Aluminium French Doors were recently featured somewhere incredibly special (and quintessentially British)… the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024.

This means there’s never been a better time to unleash your creativity and begin a balcony garden transformation. Embrace balcony garden trends inspired by the exhibit and transform your balcony into a flourishing green retreat, no matter its size.

Read our project case study to go behind the scenes of our appearance at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2024 and see how our doors helped create five immersive balcony garden displays. Plus, buy French Doors for balconies online to capture that perfect indoor-outdoor look.