# Balcony garden checklist — start growing veg and flowers

Even a tiny balcony has room for tomatoes, basil and a few flowers; the trick is buying the right supplies the first time. This list covers everything from pots to fertilizer, and with a room code it's clear who is bringing what. No sign-up needed.

**In short:** A balcony garden needs pots or a planter box, expanded clay for drainage, potting soil, seedlings or seeds and liquid fertilizer. Tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, parsley, basil and mint all do well on a small balcony; vegetables want at least six hours of sun, while herbs manage in part shade. Plant seedlings out only after the frost risk has passed.

## What's on the list

- Pots
- Planter box
- Plant saucers
- Potting soil
- Expanded clay
- Tomato seedlings
- Pepper seedlings
- Lettuce seeds
- Parsley seeds
- Basil
- Mint
- Flower seed mix
- Liquid fertilizer
- Hand trowel
- Garden gloves
- Watering can
- Spray bottle
- Plant stakes

## Tips

- Check how many hours of sun your balcony gets: tomatoes and peppers need at least six, while mint and parsley are fine in part shade.
- Water early in the morning or in the evening, and wait if the soil is dry on top but still damp two or three centimetres down.
- Plant seedlings out only once the risk of frost has passed, whatever the calendar says.
- Keep pots inside the railing, not hanging outside it, and secure them on windy floors; a falling pot is dangerous.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is easiest to grow on a balcony?

Mint, parsley, basil and lettuce are the easiest for beginners. Tomatoes and peppers want more sun and steadier watering, but they crop well in pots too.

### How big should a pot for tomatoes be?

A deep pot of at least 15-20 litres suits tomatoes and peppers, while lettuce and herbs also grow in smaller or shallower containers. Mint spreads fast, so always give it a pot of its own.

### How do you keep roots from rotting in pots?

Every pot needs a drainage hole, and a layer of expanded clay at the bottom helps excess water drain away. Remember to empty the water that collects in the saucer.

### Can I change the list?

Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.

### Do I need an account?

No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.

### How long is the list kept?

As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.

### Can I install it on my phone?

Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.

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[Start a room with this list](https://ortakliste.app/en/list/balcony-garden-checklist) — 18 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.