10 Ways to Decorate a Small Balcony With Plants

When dealing with a small balcony, finding the right decor can pose a challenge. Your decorations must not only withstand the outdoor elements but also enhance your space’s aesthetic without overwhelming it. Plants emerge as the perfect choice for such exterior spaces. After all, they’re naturally suited to outdoor life, bringing stunning blooms and lush foliage. To help you add nature’s charm to your balcony without making it feel crowded, we’ve come up with ten unique ways to decorate with plants.

Accent Furniture

long white rectangular planter with green foliage creating a barrier next to patio furniture — Jay Scotts Salon Rectangle Fiberglass Planter

Place planters close to your outdoor furniture to dress up your balcony. Choose planters in colors that complement your table and chairs, or go for contrasting hues to add some extra flair. This simple addition ties the space together and introduces an element of design consistency or striking visual interest, depending on your choice.

Maximize Floor Space

Hanging charcoal-colored planter with trailing green philodendron against a white tile backsplash — American Essence Helena Hanging Planter

If you’re limited on floor space, hanging planters offer a solution by keeping plants visible yet off the floor. Fill hanging planters with bright blooms to add a pop of color, or select a variety of trailing and vining plants to give your balcony a jungle-like feel. Just make sure the plants you choose can thrive in the typical conditions of your outdoor space.

Note: The American Essence Helena hanging planter, pictured left, is designed for indoor use. If you wish to use it on a balcony, ensure the planter is placed in a covered area to maintain its overall quality.

Design a Line Feature

three square white tapered planters with green plants on outdoor balcony — Jay Scotts Toulan Square Fiberglass Planter

If your balcony has an empty wall or window area, think about filling that space with a long rectangular planter or a series of smaller tapered planters for extra interest. Pair the planters with tall foliage to maximize the use of vertical space and add a lively, green touch to your outdoor haven.

Create Privacy

tall bushes in rectangular stone effect plastic planters used as a privacy barrier on deck — American Essence Tacoma Rectangle Planter

One of the simplest ways to decorate and achieve some privacy is through the use of foliage. Tall plants placed in long rectangular planters is a surefire way to turn your space into a private retreat with a natural vibe. If you prefer climbing and vining greenery, a planter with a trellis provides your plants with a structure to ascend while also offering you the seclusion you seek.

Group Planters

Black round planters with assorted succulents on a balcony overlooking waterfront villas — Jay Scotts Rio Grande Round Fiberglass Planter

If you have enough room, use a group of planters to add variation and depth to your balcony. Planters of various heights help to lead eyes as desired while also creating a cozy, engaging, and visually dynamic atmosphere. This strategic layout can easily transform your outdoor space into a lush garden retreat.

Transform Walls

Wall-mounted terracotta-colored planters with a variety of herbs and flowers basking in the sun — Ecopots Manhattan Wall Planter

A subtle yet charming way to decorate a small balcony with plants is to use wall planters. These planters mount on vertical surfaces, providing a sturdy means to house and display plants while also saving floor space. To maintain a fresh look, change plants with the seasons. Opt for vibrant flowers in the spring and summer, and switch to small evergreens for autumn and winter.

Adorn Railings

A railing planter box with lush green foliage mounted on a white balcony railing — Jay Scotts Tiergarden ‘Over the Railing’ Fiberglass Planter

Another method to keep plants in sight while conserving space is to use railing planters. Choose planter boxes and brackets that best fit your balcony’s railing size and aesthetics, and then fill them with your favorite plants to infuse your space with a touch of nature. This approach not only beautifies your outdoor area but also allows for easy customization and seasonal updates.

Enhance Ledges

Cactus in a white stone-like pot on a balcony railing with a coastal town backdrop — Crescent Garden Agave Round Planter

For those who have wider railings and a preference against mounting brackets, simply placing a few plants on top of a ledge can achieve a similar effect. Incorporating round bowl planters provides an appealing contrast to the more angular lines of squared-off railings, enhancing the balcony’s charm while avoiding any permanent alterations.

Define Spaces

A black rectangular planter with bamboo on a wooden deck near a bench with orange cushions — Jay Scotts Mid Rectangle Fiberglass Planters

For balconies on the larger side, consider using plants to define areas. While a full partition may not be desirable, sometimes a distinct separation between a seating zone and a grilling spot is appealing. Plants can serve as a subtle visual barrier, providing separation without fully blocking off an area. This enhances the functionality of your space, allowing for multiple uses while maintaining an open and airy feel.

Elevate Entryways

Tall palm plants in white floor planters flanking a double glass doorway — Jay Scotts San Jose Tall Round Fluted Fiberglass Planter

Highlight the entrance to your balcony by positioning plants in tall planters by the doorway. This helps utilize those tiny, overlooked nooks but also creates the sensation of stepping into a verdant getaway right on your own balcony. Adding these vertical elements draws the eye upwards, enhancing the sense of space and welcoming nature’s embrace.

As you can see, a small space doesn’t require you to sacrifice style. What other creative ways can you think of to decorate a small balcony with plants? Share your ideas in the comments below! Your creativity could inspire others to see their decorating potential.