Herbs aren’t hard to grow in a busy city. In fact, you’ll discover they are particularly excellent to grow on your apartment balcony. While most favor hot conditions, some can withstand shade.
You’ll also discover that many of these plants actually perform better in containers due to their prolific nature. If you’re wondering which herbs are suitable for your apartment, check this out.
1. Rosemary
The evergreen and tender perennial prefers to stay on the dry side. Bear in mind that the plant is easily over-watered and doesn’t particularly require rich soil.
Numerous varieties exist; some have a bush-like appearance and others are more of a creeping plant. Select upright varieties such as Blue Spire or Tuscan Blue, which maintain a compact state, making them a great choice for your apartment.
Whether you use it dried or fresh, it has a fantastic flavor. It’s important to note that if its growth occurs in a pot, it will move inside when the weather is extremely cold. The plant also likes drying out between watering, so it enjoys its own space.
2. Basil
Basil requires warm water for growth and won’t tolerate cool temperatures. During cool temperatures, their leaves shrivel and don’t seem to grow at all. Nevertheless, they perk up during warmer temperatures.
Additionally, they perform well in containers given sufficient sun and a good amount of water. Unlike some herbs, which thrive under poor soil conditions, this herb craves the nutrients and grows better with some fertilizer.
3. Chervil
Begin chervil seeds during the late summer. The plant thrives well under low light but requires temperatures between 65 and 70oF to flourish. You’ll discover chervil favors partial shade and won’t tolerate full sun.
Furthermore, it enjoys moist conditions and grows approximately 12 inches tall. The plant doesn’t transplant well, so you should start it from seed in the container you wish to keep it in.
4. Chives
Chives are one of the easiest to grow because they don’t need much light and have a prolific production. They’re easiest to begin from an already-established plant. Although the perennials take some time to establish, they typically thrive once they do.
To harvest, you simply sniff off, though for numerous leaves you require approximately an inch or two from the soil surface. You’ll find that new leaves grow back rather quickly.
5. Parsley
The commonly used herb is extremely easy to grow. However, the seeds can be hard to germinate and may take up to two weeks before you see results.
Fortunately, the plant doesn’t need much maintenance or light once you start. Bear in mind that the plant is fairly slow in growing, so initial clippings won’t harvest much.
While the biennial plant favors full sun, it will withstand partial shade. The plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and grows 8-16 inches tall. You can either start it from seed or transplant it.
6. Thyme
The evergreen perennial doesn’t need much moisture and grows 6-12 inches tall. Although it favors full sun, it will withstand partial shade.
You can start it through transplant or propagation. It’s best you buy starter thyme plants from a garden center. You’ll discover the plant propagates easily by layering or cuttings.
7. Mint
The perennial plant thrives in containers though you should avoid planting it with other plants. The herb can tolerate partial shade and favors moist conditions. While numerous mint varieties exist, you should consider Spearmint or English Mint for your apartment balcony.
If you enjoy herbs, but aren’t sure which are suitable for your apartment, this invaluable list should facilitate your decision.
For more information on the suitable herbs for your apartment balcony, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a comment.