Growing plants on the balcony? It is possible! Birgit Schattling, an organic balcony gardener, talked with myHOMEBOOK about the advantages, special features, and top advice for sustainable planting in pots, boxes, and containers.
On a balcony, amid vivid tomatoes, flowering marigolds, and buzzing wild bees, a tiny universe of variety, pleasure, and sustainability might appear. Although it may appear somewhat disorganized, a permaculture balcony actually follows a system. The goal of permaculture is to create resilient, self-regulating, sustainable systems that rely on cycles and resource conservation. Permaculture may be practiced even in small locations as long as the design is modified to fit the environment. The largest constraint, according to Birgit Schattling, who also provides online balcony gardening lessons, is the limited area.
First, observe
Observation is the first step in permaculture on a balcony. How does the light change throughout the day and year? From where does the wind originate? Do buildings or trees cast shadows? Given that the balcony’s placement cannot be altered, it is much more crucial to pay close attention to the current circumstances.
For instance, if you enjoy sitting outside in the morning, you can find a location that receives sunlight during that time of day and set up a seating area there. Evening use is no exception. In this manner, the available area may be logically adjusted to your preferences,” Schattling says.
Water Source
Permaculture requires planning for the balcony’s water supply as well. It’s easy if you have an outdoor connection; everyone else needs to think beyond the box. Gathering rainwater with buckets, watering cans, or draped tarps is the most straightforward solution for open balconies.
A rainwater collector attached to the downspout is more efficient. Another option is to use an adaptor to put a hose through a door or window and connect it to the bathroom or kitchen fixtures.
Zones of Plan
Zoning is a key concept in permaculture, whereby areas are separated based on their function and frequency of use. One way to apply this to the balcony is to think of a difficult-to-reach spot as a “wilderness zone” where chance is involved. There, wild plant seeds carried by the wind or birds can develop unhindered. Conversely, you can garden comfortably and spend a lot of time in the active care area.
Even with pots, have a big idea.
A common error made by novices is using pots that are too small. According to the expert, “if you want to enjoy them for a long time, you should choose the largest possible pots.” Strong containers with water storage—ideally on wheels—are what she suggests. Those who wish to upcycle can also look through classified ads and trade rings for reasonably priced used pots or ask snack shops and restaurants for large food containers.
Layering and stacking is a permaculture design principle. Spatial and temporal layering is useful, particularly for the balcony’s small area. Vertical planting utilizing hanging baskets, grids, or plant columns can greatly expand the amount of area that is accessible. In terms of time, cultivating winter crops is the primary use of stacking.
Plants That Are Good for Permaculture on Balconies
Permaculture emphasizes durability and diversity. Perennial edible plants, or “permaveggies,” are especially well-liked because of this. Buck’s-horn plantains, sorrel, Welsh onions, scurvy grass, and perennial kale are a few examples. They are resistant to frost and consistently produce.
“I intentionally cultivate ground elder, dandelion, and plantain on my balcony — because they are real powerhouses that require little care, provide edible leaves with high nutrient density, and offer habitat and food for beneficial insects.” Birgit Schattling has a special spot for wild plants.
Traditional veggies like runner beans, zucchini, and tomatoes also work well. The latter is pollinator-friendly, offers privacy, has lovely flowers, and grows tall swiftly. Asian salads, lamb’s lettuce, black cabbage, or kale can all add fresh greens to the meal in the winter.
Cycles of Conscious Design
Integrating the idea of the cycle—from seeds to harvest and back again—into daily living is another aspect of permaculture. For instance, Schattling explains: “I gathered wild rocket seeds in Berlin, planted them on the balcony, picked leaves, allowed the plant to bloom, drew bees, then picked the seeds — and planted them again the following year.” This eventually produces a site-appropriate, adapted plant. Composting, such as using worm composters or Bokashi buckets, is another way to recycle kitchen trash and plant remnants from the balcony.
