Being an urban gardener doesn't mean you can't have a lush garden. With an accommodating windowsill and the right containers, you can grow a wide variety of plants!
Living in the city brings many conveniences, but for the gardener, it can mean frustration. The urban landscape doesn’t provide much space, but with a windowsill and the right containers, anyone can have a lush garden!
The first thing to consider is the amount of light the windowsill will receive. South, east, and west exposures will all do well, while plants grown in a northern exposure may need a boost from grow lights, especially in the winter. Avoid windows that are drafty or that get limited natural light. Most plants need at least four hours of bright light a day to survive. Direct sunlight isn’t necessary for most plants with the exception of cacti, succulents, and some herbs and flowers. Next, think about containers. Chose containers that promote good drainage and have enough weight to them to avoid toppling in the breeze. For a more decorative touch, chose ceramic planters large enough for pots to be placed inside.
When selecting plants, consider the exposure of the windowsill and how much direct sun it receives per day. A bright southern exposure that gets direct sunlight for much of the day is perfect for all varieties of cactus as well as for succulents like Jade, Echeveria, and Kalanchoe. Herbs such as Oregano, Rosemary, and Chives will also do well here. For color and scent, Hibiscus and Scented Geraniums are good choices.. For windows that get mostly bright but not direct sunlight, there are also lots of choices. Geraniums, Begonias, and Impatiens will do well in these conditions. For extra color, try a few Coleus plants. A windowsill that gets low light can be more of a challege. Try some of the houseplants that do well in low light, such as Sanseveria, Philodendron, and Cast Iron Plant.
Once the plants have been selected, chose a pleasing arrangement on the windowsill. If planters are not being used, be sure the surface won’t be damaged by water leakage. Plastic trays are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and lengths at most garden centers and home stores.
Plants in containers dry out much more rapidly than plants in the ground, so extra care must be taken to keep them moist. Many plants will also appreciate regular feedings, especially those that flower. Choose one especially formulated for containers or houseplants. Just like plants grown outdoors, flowering plants will need regular deadheading, and foliage plants will appreciate being pinched back to promote full, bushy growth.
Have any questions or comments? I’d love to hear from you!
