Do you have a balcony with railings and dream of a green paradise? An ivy on your balcony is one of the smartest ways to achieve this. Climbing plants make optimal use of vertical space, allowing you to add a lot of greenery even in a small area. Moreover, your balcony railings are the perfect climbing frame.
In this article, we share the 10 best climbing plants that will transform your railed balcony into a living wall. We'll look at hardy options, fast growers, and, of course, how best to plant them in a sturdy planter on the ground.
Why choose climbing plants for a railed balcony?
A balcony with railings offers unique opportunities. Where solid walls often need extra climbing aids, plants can wind directly around the railings. This provides a natural partition, more privacy, and a cooling effect during hot summer days.
Because you often have limited space for large pots on a balcony, we always recommend working with a specific planter placed on the ground. The tendrils then grow upwards through the railings from below. This is not only more stable but also looks immediately professional.
The 10 best climbing plants for your balcony
1. Ivy (Hedera Helix)
The classic ivy on the balcony is the king of greenery. It is hardy, stays green all year round, and grows rapidly. Hedera is perfect for completely blocking views. Just make sure to prune it back occasionally, as it can be quite enthusiastic.
2. Clematis (Clematis)
Want color? Then Clematis is your friend. This plant likes 'feet in the shade and head in the sun'. By placing our planters at the bottom of the railings, the roots stay cooler while the flowers climb towards the light. There are hundreds of varieties, from deep purple to brilliant white.
3. Wisteria (Wisteria)
For a romantic look, Wisteria is unbeatable. Its hanging clusters of flowers smell wonderful. Be aware: this is a strong grower with sturdy branches, so make sure the base is in a robust planter on the ground so it doesn't get blown over.
4. Honeysuckle (Lonicera)
Honeysuckle is a treat for the senses. Especially in the evening hours, this plant emits a wonderful fragrance. It's a true 'twining' plant that uses your balcony railings as support to pull itself upwards.
5. Climbing Rose
Who says roses can only be in the garden? There are beautiful climbing roses that do excellently in a planter on the balcony. They require a little more love and sunlight, but in return, you get a classic look.
6. Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
This plant is a favorite with many balcony owners. It has glossy green leaves that often turn red in winter, and in summer, you can enjoy countless white star-shaped flowers that smell sweet.
7. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus)
Looking for a plant that provides a spectacle in autumn? Virginia Creeper turns deep red and fiery orange. It grows very quickly and fills the gaps between the railings in no time.
8. Passion Flower (Passiflora)
For an exotic touch on your balcony, choose the Passion Flower. Its blooms are small works of art. The plant uses thin tendrils to attach itself to the railings, which works perfectly with an open balcony structure.
9. Hops (Humulus lupulus)
Hops is an incredibly fast grower that regrows from its roots every year. In a single season, it can cover your entire balcony with beautiful fresh green foliage. Ideal if you want quick privacy in the summer months.
10. Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala petiolaris)
Do you have a balcony with a lot of shade? No problem. Climbing Hydrangea actually thrives in less sunny spots. It grows a bit slower than ivy, but its white flower heads are beautiful to behold.
The essential: A good planter for your climbing plants
A common mistake when greening a balcony is using small pots that hang on the railing. Climbing plants need space for their roots to grow large and strong. Moreover, climbing plants catch a lot of wind once they have grown upwards.
At Vercony, we have considered this. Our specific planter is designed to stand on the ground, directly against the railings. This means:
- The planter is stable and secure, even in strong gusts of wind.
- The roots have enough space and nutrients.
- The plants grow directly in the right place between the railings.
- You keep the railing free for your arms or a cup of coffee.
You can, of course, combine our planters with smaller hanging baskets for a playful effect, but for the heavy work (the climbing plants), a sturdy base on the floor is essential.
Tips for maintaining your balcony plants
An ivy on your balcony doesn't need much, but with these tips, your green wall will stay in top condition:
- Watering: Because the plants are in planters, they dry out faster than in the open ground. Regularly check the moisture, especially on sunny days.
- Nutrition: In spring and summer, provide some extra plant food to stimulate growth.
- Guiding: In the beginning, you sometimes have to help the young shoots by gently wrapping them around the railings. After that, they do the work themselves.
- Pruning: Does the climber get too enthusiastic? Don't be afraid to prune it. Most climbing plants only branch out more beautifully as a result.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the timeless ivy or a fragrant jasmine, climbing plants transform your balcony into a vibrant place where you can truly relax. By choosing plants that grow through the railings, you smartly utilize the architecture of your home.
Ready to start? Ensure a good base with a planter specially made for your type of balcony. This way, you'll enjoy a carefree green wall for years to come!
