Thriving Balcony Plants for North Facing Windows

Thriving Balcony Plants for North Facing Windows

Your balcony faces north and receives limited sunlight. Don't let this discourage you from cultivating a beautiful and verdant space. There are several plants that can thrive in these conditions, fulfilling your desire to garden even in shadowed spots. Let's explore some excellent choices and tips for creating a thriving mini-botanical haven.

Plants Perfect for Low Light North Facing Balconies

Despite the limited sunlight, your balcony can still be a lush green oasis. Peace lilies, for instance, are fantastic for north-facing windows and don't require much sunlight. Unlike most flowering plants that need bright light, peace lilies love low light conditions and can add a touch of elegance to your space.

Here is a list of other plants that can easily grow in low light:

Spider plant Cast iron plant (Aspidistra) Prayer plant Calathea Boston fern Ponytail palm Wax plant Orchids Zebra plant Watermelon peperomia

These plants not only add beauty to your balcony but also bring life and freshness to your space. They are low maintenance and can tolerate the less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

Adjusting Your Gardening Environment

While it's essential to choose the right plants, slightly adjusting the environment can also make a significant difference. If you find that your northern exposure balcony does not get enough natural light, you can consider supplemental lighting. Today, there are many options available in different styles and price ranges that can help you provide the necessary light to your plants.

By choosing plants that are well-suited to low light environments, you can ensure that your balcony remains a vibrant and healthy space. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, these plants are easy to care for and will make your balcony a delight. Remember, well-lit plants not only look more attractive but also help to cheer up your space, especially during the darker days of winter.

Additional Tips for Indoor Gardening

For indoor plants in low-light conditions, it is crucial to select the right type of plants. Plants listed as low- and medium light are suitable candidates. However, it's important to note that the space should provide enough light for the plants to thrive. A north-facing window should ideally let in a decent amount of light, especially if it is spacious and allows for prolonged exposure.

A common measurement in the decorative interior foliage industry is the foot candle (FC). Low light is measured at 25-200 FC, and medium light is 150-500 FC. Professional landscapers often use these measurements to ensure their plants receive the appropriate light. By familiarizing yourself with these measurements, you can better understand the lighting requirements of your plants and adjust accordingly.

Conclusion

With the right plants and a bit of care, your north-facing balcony can become a delightful and thriving garden. Whether you prefer the beauty of a peace lily or the lush greens of a Boston fern, there are plenty of options to choose from. So, don't let the lack of sunlight hold you back. Start planning your balcony garden today and watch your plants thrive in the shadowed spots.