Balcony Gardening

[blahdiblah]

Hi, i have just moved to a new flat that has 2 balconies... there are pots with dead plants on both... and i was wondering if anyone has ideas on plants that will live in pots and will cope in cold london weather? i'm clueless on plants! thanks ;)

[Bromsgrove]

Hello! For this season why not try some winter flowering heathers, ericaceous compost is good for these. Variagated ivies which would trail over the pots would be fine. Pansies and a selection of winter flowering bulbs interplanted would add colour in the centre. The bulbs could be planted in three layers, daffodils at the bottom, a layer of compost, then some tulips, compost and top off with a layer of crocus for example.This should give you interest over a long period. Primulas too make a colourful display. As the winter progresses you will be able to see how much the plants are subject to wind damage and be able to plan more permanent planting accordingly. Good luck.

[HJT40]

I did post a long answer which came up in recent posts but now no longer exists!

[blahdiblah]

Thanks for the answers! This is very handy and i'll definately go to our local garden centre... HJT thanks, i got your answer (i posted the question in another cat by accident too) ;)

[katerich48]

I've got a terrace in London and I plant everything, and nothing has ever died on me in fact my part of london seems to have a micro climate I get flowers in the winter on my fuschias and my geraniums - Ive got Hydrangeas, and an Apple tree - a fig tree - roses- lavender- Mimosa- Wisteria,- lilacs..(I could go on) basically if it flowers I buy it and stick it in a pot (the bigger the better) and they all thrive..Oh and its S.W facing which helps..