Sure, elaborate gardens that go on for acres are cool – but just because you don’t have a big backyard doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun of gardening. Check out some plants that are perfect for your balcony garden. 

Peas

If you’ve never seen a pea plant, you may be surprised to learn that they actually grow up, which is the perfect characteristic for a balcony garden. Now, they will need some help – this isn’t a tree situation where they grow a sturdy trunk to support each plant – so you want to either buy a trellis (they come in lots of different sizes) or make your own. 

Tomatoes

Welcome to New Jersey, where no garden is complete without at least one tomato plant, even balcony gardens. But you knew that, right. Your tomato plant is going to go in a pot or a raised bed, if you have room, and will need a tomato cage to keep the fruits from laying on the ground, where they will rot. Follow these steps to plant your seedling.  

A salad garden

For a creative touch to your balcony garden, pair your tomato plant with a salad garden pot. Plant leafy greens like lettuce, kale and spinach. That way, when you want to prep a salad, all you have to do is pop out to your balcony for a truly Jersey Fresh dish. 

Herbs

Having fresh herbs for your everyday cooking is a game changer (trust us). Luckily, you can grow herbs both on your balcony or inside. That also means that in the winter months, you can have your herb garden in your kitchen and then when temps warm, you can move it outside. Check out some tips for maintaining your herb garden here.  

Cucumbers

There are two types of cucumber plants, and either will be happy growing in your small space. Bush cucumbers are great for growing in containers, and vining cucumbers will grow vertically, like our peas. Also like those pea plants, you’ll need to add a trellis to support your vining cucumbers.