What are the flowering plants suitable for cultivation on north-facing balconies
A collection of life's little knowledge, discussing the topic of flowering plants suitable for north-facing balconies and the introduction of five shade-tolerant and robust flowers recommended for cultivation on north-facing balconies. Let's explore and learn together.
Modern people live in cities of steel and concrete, facing skyrocketing housing prices. Owning an apartment of one's own is already quite good, and it's inevitable to end up with a north-facing balcony with poor lighting. Due to the limited sunlight on north-facing balconies, many plant enthusiasts only choose shade-tolerant leafy varieties such as pothos, monstera, and hanging orchids, as if north-facing balconies are naturally incompatible with flowering plants. However, this idea is incorrect. Even on north-facing balconies, there are flowering plants suitable for cultivation. Below are five flower varieties introduced, which are shade-tolerant and robust, and can bloom continuously on north-facing balconies. Let's take a look~
Hydrangea
Hydrangea, also known as 八仙花 (eight immortals flower), 紫阳花, and 粉团花, is called "the three treasures of the garden" along with roses and clematis. Among these three treasures, roses and clematis are sun-loving plants that require abundant and prolonged sunlight. Hydrangea, on the other hand, is a short-day plant that prefers semi-shaded environments and only needs to receive more than 10 hours of darkness each day to differentiate flower buds. It only requires 3 to 5 hours of sunlight per day, and too much sunlight is actually not conducive to blooming.
Summer is the peak blooming season for hydrangeas, and during the blooming period, direct sunlight is to be avoided, especially one month before blooming. Otherwise, the branches with flower buds may wither due to excessive sunlight.
Care Tips
Hydrangea prefers a semi-shaded environment. In spring, autumn, and winter when the weather is not hot, it can be exposed to more direct sunlight. However, as the weather warms up, especially in summer, it needs to be shaded to avoid strong direct sunlight to prevent sunburn. Except for the dormant period in winter, water can be given when the soil surface is slightly dry. Around March, we need to sprinkle some organic fertilizer in the potting soil. After May, when hydrangeas enter the peak blooming period, they should be supplemented with phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to promote flowering, about once every two weeks, and stop fertilizing when the flowers bloom.
Cyclamen
What are the flowering plants suitable for cultivation on north-facing balconies
Cyclamen is a perennial herbaceous plant of the primrose family. It has a small plant form, with an adult height of only 20 to 30 centimeters, making it very suitable for planting in small pots for appreciation. Cyclamen is a winter ornamental flower, with a blooming period spanning winter and spring. The weak ultraviolet rays in winter have developed its shade-loving habits, making it suitable for cultivation on north-facing balconies or north-facing window sills.
Care Tips
Cyclamen is a typical cold-tolerant flower that does not tolerate high temperatures. After entering summer, the plant will enter a dormant state in high temperatures, with the above-ground part completely withering, as if it has "died." At this time, it is essential to place the pot in a shaded and well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight and keeping the soil slightly dry. When the temperature drops in autumn, the plant will recover活力 and start growing again.
Hosta
Hosta, also known as 玉泡花 or 玉春棒, is one of the most important flowers in classical Chinese courtyards. The bud shape of the flower before it blooms resembles the hairpin worn by ancient women, hence the name. Hosta has many horticultural varieties, with different varieties having unique leaf colors and shapes. Plant enthusiasts can choose varieties according to their preferences.