If you’re looking for ways to make your balcony more private, look no further! In this blog post, we will list ways for using plants as a solution to your privacy concerns. Whether you want to keep prying eyes out or just enjoy some peace and quiet, these tips will help. So get ready to transform your balcony into a private oasis!
Contents
Why Privacy Is Important On Your Balcony
You Deserve Your Privacy
Everybody deserves their privacy. After all, it’s your balcony and you should be able to use it in any way you please without worrying about what your neighbors think.
Enjoy Your Balcony Without Nosy Neighbors
If you’re looking to enjoy your balcony without an audience, then consider using plants in pots to create privacy. With these plants, you can block the view of your neighbors and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Privacy Gives You Freedom
When you have privacy on your balcony, it gives you the freedom to do whatever you please. Whether you want to sunbathe topless or have a dinner party with friends, you can do so without worrying about who’s watching. Having privacy allows you to relax and enjoy your outdoor space without any distractions.
Keep Your Personal Life Personal
Having privacy allows you to relax and enjoy your outdoor space without any distractions. It’s important to be able to have some private time in order to keep your personal life personal. With privacy, you can relax and enjoy your balcony without having to worry about what others think.
Deter Potential Burglars
Privacy screening plants will not only add appeal to the exterior of your home, but they also act as a natural burglar deterrent.
A thick row of shrubs or small trees around the edge of an outdoor space deters people from those areas. This is because the plants block visibility; any self-respecting burglar wants to check that nobody is around. If they can’t know for sure, they’ll go on to the next place.
If you live on ground level, the height of the plants prevents anyone from simply walking through it. So, you can use security hedging to make your balcony private.
Why Choose Plants To Screen Your Balcony?
Here are nine reasons for plants being great for privacy on a balcony:
- Plants provide natural screening and noise reduction, which can help you to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Plants can help to block the view of your neighbors, which can give you a sense of privacy and security.
- Plants can help to create a sense of enclosure, which can make your balcony feel like a private retreat.
- Plants can add color and interest to your balcony, making it a more inviting space to spend time in.
- Plants can provide shade, which can be a welcome relief on hot summer days.
- Plants can help to filter the air, making it cleaner and healthier to breathe.
- Plants can attract birds and other wildlife, which can add a touch of nature to your balcony oasis.
- Plants can help to absorb excess water, which can prevent pooling and flooding on your balcony.
- Plants can provide food and shelter for insects, which can help to control pests in your home.
Things To Think About When Choosing Plants For Your Balcony
- Choose plants that aren’t toxic to children or pets.
- The screening plants you choose should work well with the natural frost and wind patterns in your climate.
- Choose plants that can tolerate direct sun and heat, as well as those that are drought tolerant.
- The plants you choose should not be too delicate.
- Plants, no matter how lush and full they may seem, will have lost some of their leaves in the winter due to frost or lack of sunlight. So, do not focus exclusively on leaf cover when selecting a bush for protection purposes. Look at other attributes that would impact privacy: height, branching pattern or density, color or texture of bark or foliage during winter months, as well as fragrance. But honestly, how long do you spend on the balcony during winter anyway?
- If possible, choose plants that provide year-round visual interest.
What Is The Most Rapidly Growing Screening Plant?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the fastest growing screening plant will vary depending on your climate and growing conditions.
However, some plants that are known for their fast growth rates include bamboo, calamagrostis ‘karl foerster,’ and pennisetum. If you’re looking for a fast-growing screening plant that is easy to care for, bamboo is a good option.
What Are The Best Ways To Grow Plants On A Balcony?
Your choices will depend on whether you own the apartment or if you’re renting. If you’re a renter and don’t want to invest in permanent solutions for privacy, try using plants in pots. If you’re the homeowner, you can do pretty much what you like, as long as you don’t violate the rules of the building.
Use Your Vertical Space
If you have the space, you can also create a vertical garden on your balcony. Not only does it add an extra layer of security by blocking views from neighboring apartments, but it can also help to cool down the space by providing shade. This is a great way to add some greenery to your space while still keeping things private.
A vertical garden can consist of:
Hanging planters
Trailing plants in hanging planters add interest and beauty to the balcony and create a sense of privacy. They can be used to camouflage an unattractive view or to provide shade from the sun. Some good choices for trailing plants include ivy and philodendrons, plus Boston Ferns will reach their arms downwards when they realize they have the room to do so.
Shelves
Pots full of cascading plants can add a touch of elegance and privacy to any balcony. Whether you choose ferns, ivy, or some other trailing plant, be sure to select one that will grow well in the conditions on your balcony. sunlight, water, and soil quality will all affect the growth of your cascading plants, so be sure to research what type of plant will work best for your situation.
Renters could choose portable shelving that can be packed up if and when they move house.
Railing Planters
If you have railings that run horizontally, having planters on your balcony railing is a great way to add privacy and make your balcony feel more like an oasis. Consider plants that will become bushy and will add some color, like Lavender, Geranium or Verbena.
And, since you can lift them off and take them with you, they’re perfect for renters!
For Climbers
You could use a lattice or a trellis to grow your balcony plants. The trellis will give your plants something to grow onto and help keep them secure, while also adding some privacy to your space.
Adding a trellis to your balcony is a great way to create privacy and add some extra décor at the same time. Trellises come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that will fit in perfectly with your space. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or vinyl.
If you choose a wooden trellis, be sure to select a type that is weather-resistant so it will last longer. Metal and vinyl trellises are both durable and weather-resistant, making them a great choice for balconies. They also come in a variety of colors, so you can find one that matches your décor.
Good Old Dependable Pots
Tall plants placed close together in pots on the balcony floor will create a natural privacy screen. They will eventually grow and intertwine to create a living wall. Bamboo is a great option for this, as it grows quickly and is very strong.
Best Tall Plants For Balcony Privacy
Tall plants are a great way to add privacy to your balcony. They can also help block out unwanted noise from neighbors or the street below. Some of our favorite tall plants for balconies include:
Bamboo
Bamboo plants are perfect for screening an apartment balcony from neighbors. They grow tall very quickly and create a dense green wall that will obscure the view. Bamboo is also a beautiful plant and can add a tropical feel to your balcony.
It is also easy to care for, requiring only weekly watering and occasional fertilizing. Make sure to place bamboo in a spot that receives full sun exposure and be sure to prune it regularly to keep it under control.
Cherry Laurel
Cherry laurel (Prunus novita) is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that can be used for screening a balcony. It has dark green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in spring. Cherry laurel grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is drought tolerant and relatively pest and disease free.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus plants are great for screening an apartment balcony from nosy neighbors. They grow tall and quickly, and their bright, colorful blooms will add a splash of color to your outdoor space. Plus, hibiscus plants are easy to care for, so you’ll be able to enjoy your private oasis without any hassle.
Tall Ornamental Grasses For Privacy
Ornamental grasses make a great privacy screen on a balcony. They come in all different heights, from two feet tall to six feet or more. Be sure to choose a variety that is appropriate for the amount of sun your balcony gets.
Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass
Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora) is an ideal plant for screening a balcony, as it grows up to six feet tall and has feathery foliage that provides privacy and is excellent for cutting. It can be planted in pots or in the ground, and it will add beauty to any outdoor space. They add a touch of elegance and will tolerate a variety of soil conditions.
Japanese Bloodgrass
Japanese Bloodgrass (Imperata cylindrica) is perfect for screening an apartment balcony from neighbors and with its narrow blood-red leaves, it adds an accent to your balcony garden. The plant is tall and bushy, that grows up to about four feet in height. Japanese Bloodgrass can be grown in pots, so it’s easy to move around the balcony. It thrives in moist soil but can tolerate drought.
Bamboo Palm
Another plant that can be used for screening an apartment balcony from neighbors is the Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii). This palm grows to about eight feet tall and has long, slender leaves that make it perfect for creating a privacy screen. The Bamboo Palm can also be grown in pots and is easy to care for, but it prefers to grow in shady areas.
Japanese Silver Grass
Japanese Silver Grass (Miscanthus sinensis) is a graceful plant that grows to three to seven feet and makes an excellent privacy screen for balconies. It grows quickly to create a tall, green barrier, and its feathery leaves help to obscure the view of any neighbors who might be looking in. Japanese Silver Grass is also drought-tolerant, meaning that it doesn’t need a lot of water to thrive.
If you’re looking for privacy on your balcony, try planting tall plants in pots. These ornamental grasses are all great options that will provide the height and coverage you need to shield your space from nosy neighbors. These plants are also relatively low-maintenance, so you won’t have to spend hours taking care of them. Simply water them regularly and give them some occasional TLC, and they’ll thrive.
Grow Some Food!
If you have a sunny spot on your balcony, you may want to consider growing a food-bearing shrub. These shrubs can provide both privacy and food. Some of our favorites include:
Tomatoes
Not only do tomatoes provide delicious fruit, but tomatoes also grow quite tall (up to six feet!). Just be sure to give them plenty of sun and frequent watering.
Corn Stalks
Another veggie that provides both food and privacy, corn stalks can reach up to eight feet in height.
Blueberries
Blueberry bushes can reach up to six feet in height and produce delicious berries. They do best in full sun but can also tolerate part shade.
Raspberries
Raspberries are another type of bush that produces delicious fruit. They grow well in pots and can reach up to four feet in height. Just be sure to give them plenty of sun and water.
Grapes
Grape vines can grow quite tall (up to 20 feet!), making them a great choice for privacy screens. They do best in full sun but can also tolerate part shade.
Salsas
Salsa plants (like tomatoes) provide both food and privacy. They also do well in pots and can reach up to four feet in height. Just be sure to give them plenty of sun and they appreciate moist soil.
Climbing Plants
If you’re looking for a plant that will add both privacy and beauty to your balcony, consider a climbing plant. Climbing plants can reach up to 30 feet in height and come in a variety of colors and shapes. Some of our favorites include:
Golden Hop
Golden Hop is a hardy perennial plant that can be used to create privacy on a balcony. It grows up to 10 feet tall, and its leaves are large and dark green. Golden Hop is a fast-growing plant, so it can be used to quickly create privacy on a balcony. It also requires minimal care, making it a good choice for busy homeowners. Golden Hop is a versatile plant that can be used to create privacy in a variety of settings.
Sweet Peas
Sweet peas are a beautiful addition to any balcony garden. They come in a variety of beautiful colors and have a sweet fragrance. Tall varieties can grow up to six feet tall. Their delicate blooms will add a touch of color and interest to your balcony oasis, while providing privacy from prying eyes.
Ivy
Ivy is a classic climbing plant that is known for its ability to cover walls quickly. It does best in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun. Ivy is an ideal plant to use for screening a balcony because it grows quickly and can be trained to grow in a variety of shapes. Ivy can also be kept trimmed to the desired height, so you can control how much privacy it provides.
Honeysuckle
One of the best plants to screen an apartment balcony is honeysuckle. This fast-growing vine can quickly provide privacy, and the sweet fragrance of its flowers is a bonus. Plant honeysuckle near a railing or in a pot that can be placed on the balcony floor, and it will soon be providing screening.
Wisteria
Wisteria is a beautiful, flowering vine that can be trained to grow up an apartment balcony to screen it from view. Wisteria is hardy and can survive in most climates, making it a perfect choice for those living in cooler regions. Wisteria blooms in late spring or early summer, providing a pop of color to an otherwise drab balcony.
Clematis
Clematis is a climbing plant that comes in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and purple. It does best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. When it comes to building privacy on a balcony, few plants are as effective as clematis. This climbing vine can grow up to 20 feet tall, making it the perfect choice for blocking the view of your neighbors. Clematis is also known for its beautiful flowers, which can add a touch of color to your balcony. If you’re looking for a privacy fence that doubles as a piece of art, clematis is the plant for you!
Star Jasmine
Star Jasmine is a beautiful flowering plant that can be used to create privacy on a balcony. Its fragrant blooms will perfume the air and make your outdoor space feel like a private oasis. Star Jasmine is easy to care for, and it will quickly grow to provide screening from your neighbors. If you’re looking for a way to turn your balcony into a private retreat, consider planting some Star Jasmine vines.
Rambling Roses
Rambling roses are the perfect plants for creating privacy on a balcony. Their tall, bushy growth will obscure your view from neighbors, while their sweet fragrance will keep you relaxed and at ease. Additionally, rambling roses are low-maintenance balcony plants that require minimal care, making them the perfect addition to any balcony.
As you can see, there are many ways to turn balcony gardens. Tall plants, fruit and vegetable plants, and climbing plants are all great choices. Just be sure to choose a plant that is appropriate for the amount of sun your balcony gets.
Ideal Plants For Creating Thick Green Screens For Privacy
When it comes to creating a dense green screen on your balcony, there are a few plants that stand out from the rest. Some of our favorites include ivy, honeysuckle, wisteria, and clematis.
These plants grow quickly and can create a solid wall of greenery in no time. They also come in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your taste. Just be sure to provide them with plenty of sun and water and they will take care of the rest.
The Best Screening Plants For Making A Thinner Privacy Screen
If you’re looking to create a less dense screen on your balcony, there are a few plants that will do the trick! Tall plants in pots can help to create a private oasis for you and your guests. Some of the best screening plants for this purpose include bamboo, English ivy, and Boston ferns.
Bamboo is a great option because it grows quickly and can easily be shaped into a privacy hedge. English ivy is also a great choice because it climbs well and can quickly cover a large area. Boston ferns are perfect for creating a lush, green screen.
Conclusion
A well-planned garden is a great way to add privacy to your balcony. It can also help block out unwanted noise from neighbors or the street below. It can provide shade in summer, fresh fruit or vegetables or gorgeous flowers.
Create a haven for yourself on your balcony!
