23 Creative Ideas for Small Balcony Gardens

A balcony garden is a practical solution for those looking to maximize outdoor space, especially in urban environments where space is limited. With the right planters, plant choices and layout, even the smallest balcony can support a thriving green space while giving you all the benefits associated with gardening. Whether it’s growing herbs for cooking, adding colorful flowers, or creating a lush vertical garden, a balcony garden definitely adds dimension to your space and here are 23 spot-on ideas to ensure you have one. Dive in!

1. Use colorful container gardening for small plants and shrubs

Photo: Fitore Syla

2. Plant seasonal flowers to attract attention to your balcony

Photo: Leigh Trail

3. add a balcony trellis to attach planters or climbing vines

Photo: Future PLC

4. Use tiered plant stands to hold your plant pots

Photo: Alexis Buryk

5. Keep it minimal with non-invasive plant varieties

Photo: Brett Symes/Future Plc

6. Add an outdoor rug and furniture for a cozy outdoor space

Photo: Your Space By Design

7. add An overhead canopy for direct sunlight cover

Photo: Lula Poggi

8. add balcony shades for added privacy and sunlight protection

Photo: Lula Poggi

9. Use hanging baskets to grow your plants vertically

Photo: Fitore Syla

10. Create a green living wall on your balcony walls using moss or succulents

Photo: Jason Rampe

11. Feature a DIY wall art using plant baskets

Photo: Georgia Paerson

12. Surround the balcony with railing planters

13. Light it up with string lights, footlights, candles or lanterns

Photo: Terra Firma Design

14. keep it organized and well manicured for cohesive look

Photo: TLA Studio

15. Create a balcony jungle with a mix of various plants and flowers

Photo: Urban Green Design

16. use raised box planters to control soil and water runoff when watering

Photo: Candeo Design

17. plant shade-loving plants like ferns, begonias, or peace lilies

Photo: The Artist Garden

18. a small water feature adds to the natural setting

Photo: TLA Studio

19. Create a kitchen herb garden in small pots

Photo: Brian Flynn

20. Pick a theme for the garden; Japanese Zen garden, English cottage garden, or this Mediterranean-style garden

Photo: Urban Green Design

21. Add a swing or hammock for a relaxing nook in the garden

Photo: Jessica Isaac

22. Choose foldable bistro-style furniture that can be put away for more plant room

Photo: Laura Steffan

23. Grow plants that easily thrive in your location and are pet-friendly

Photo: Urban Green Design