When you have a small balcony, it can be challenging to decorate. Not only does your decor have to withstand the elements, it also has to add to the look of your space without taking up too much room. Plants are the perfect accessory for your exterior spaces. They prefer the outdoors and can offer fantastic blooms and lovely foliage. We came up with ten unique ways to decorate a small balcony with plants to help you add some natural flair without making your space feel crowded.
1. Hang Planters to keep floor space clear
If you’re limited on floor space, hanging planters keep plants within eyesight, but out of the way. Fill your hanging planters with bright blooms to add some color, or use a variety of trailing and vining plants to give your porch space jungle-like vibes. Just make sure the plants you choose are able to thrive in your usual exterior conditions.Β
2. Use Plants for Privacy and decor
One of the easiest ways to both decorate and give yourself a bit of privacy is to use foliage. Long rectangular planters with tall foliage are a sure-fire way to create a private retreat with some natural ambiance. If you prefer climbing and vining plants, a large rectangular container with a trellis gives your plant a place to grow while offering you the privacy you desire.Β
3. Put Plants on Your Walls
An understated and sweet way to decorate a small balcony with plants is to use a wall sconce planter. These types of planters attach to vertical surfaces and offer a sturdy way to house and display plants. Change out plants seasonally to keep your space looking updated. Use bright flowers in the spring and summer, and small evergreens during the autumn and winter.
4. Mount on a railing
Another method to keep plants visible, but out of the way, is by using railing planters.Β Choose railing planter boxes and brackets that best fit your guardrails and aesthetic, and fill them with your favorite plants to give your balcony a natural edge.
5. Set On a Balcony Railing
For those who have wider railings and don’t want to mount brackets to balcony railings, simply setting a few plants on top of a handrail can have a similar effect. Use round bowl planters to offer a contrast to squared-off railings.Β
6. Use a planter grouping
If you have enough room, use a planter grouping to add variation and dimension to your balcony. Different planter heights help to lead eyes where you want them to go, while also creating a cozier atmosphere.
7. Add Symmetry to doorways
Accent the entrance to your balcony by putting tall plants and tall skinny planters next to the doorway. This helps to fill small unused corners, but can also make you feel like you’re in a verdant getaway on your own balcony.
8. Accent your Furniture
Set planters near your exterior furniture to dress up your balcony. Choose planters that match your table and chairs, or select contrasting colors for extra flair.
9. Line A Wall
If you have an empty wall or window space on your balcony, consider filling that space with a long rectangular planter, or a series of smaller tapered planters for extra interest. Pair with tall foliage to create an appealing natural display.Β
10. Add sections to your space
For somewhat larger balcony spaces, consider using plants to create separated spaces. Though you may not want a complete barrier, sometimes it’s nice to have a seating area separate from a grilling area. Plants can help create a subtle visual barrier, without truly blocking off a space.
Having a small balcony doesn’t mean you need to compromise on aesthetics. What other creative ways can you decorate a small balcony with plants? Tell us in the comments below!
Thanks for sharing. I just moved into an apartment. I’ve never had a balcony and did not know what to do with it. This article was such a big help.