Some people find it more enjoyable to hire professionals to do all the hard work, but there are many people who derive a lot of pleasure out of planting and nurturing something, and then watching it thrive. When you own a house with a yard there is usually plenty of space to create beautiful gardens and flowerbeds, however, what if you live in a condominium? Are your gardening days over? The answer is no! Just because you live in a condo doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy plants and flowers and the fresh air.

First of all, there are many types of condominiums, so if gardening is one of your passions you should probably consider what type of condo would best suit your needs. Townhouse style condos quite often have a small yard or outdoor area where you could plant a small vegetable or flower garden. Of course you would want to make sure that you have a nice southern exposure, or at least an area that receives a few good hours of sunshine each day. As well, you probably need to see if there are any restrictions placed upon what you may or may not do with your outdoor area.

Some condos share a courtyard and in some cases there may even be the opportunity to share a community garden. Many of the new condominiums are offering something new and different all the time, so it’s all a matter of checking them all out and seeing what appeals to you the most. A few condos around town now include roof-top terraces, which are ideal for your own private little garden. Direct sunlight, security and privacy are all very desirable qualities of a roof-top garden. Pretty much anything that can be grown in a yard can be grown in this environment, and in cities much larger and older than ours, this has become a very common sight.

However, even if you don’t have these types of condos, most at least have a nice balcony. Although this may be a smaller area, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have colourful flowers or lush plants. Again, it’s best to have a southern exposure, but even if you don’t there are plants that do quite well in the shade. Flower boxes, hanging plants and potted plants are a great way to spruce up a balcony, and they are easy to maintain. There are even herb kits that you can buy that look like miniature greenhouses, for those who prefer to grow their own culinary plants. Of course certain types of plants are better suited for these areas so it’s best to read the little tags on the plants before you buy them. It is possible to grow potted plants from seeds, but it takes a little more tender loving care and time. It all depends what you want to get out of having plants.

Dana Boychuk, a salesperson in the greenhouse at the Crowfoot Rona Home and Garden Centre, says that if you have a really green thumb and know what you’re doing, then starting from seeds may be the way for you.

However, she says that if you just want to add some colour and some pretty flowers, it’s cheaper in the long run to buy annuals. “It may only cost a couple of dollars to buy a packet of seeds, but you may only get a few flowers out of it, whereas if you buy the ready-grown plants you’re guaranteed to have full flowering plants,” says Dana. “Annuals are also a better choice for potted or hanging plants, as perennials aren’t guaranteed to come back the following year.” She adds. Dana explains that annuals tend to do better than perennials in pots, and basically any annual will do great in flower boxes or hanging pots. Two of the more popular plants for hanging pots are wave petunias or bacopas. Each are a trailing type of plant, but the bacopa has small leaves and tiny white flowers. As well Lobelia are popular for their vibrant little blue flowers that enhance any potting arrangement. The flowers that people tend to choose the most for their planters and pots are Geraniums, Coleus, and upright Petunias. However, Dana says that some people will even bring out their Boston Ferns, and as long as you wait until around May 24th, they will flourish. Another gorgeous addition to any balcony or deck is the Hibiscus. This tree with its large vibrant blooms is sure to brighten up any space, however, if the evenings get any cooler than 10 degrees the plant must be moved inside. During the peak of summer, however, the warm evenings and hot days will keep this plant healthy and beautiful. Another plant that will enhance your outdoor space is the Oliander tree or bush, which requires the same temperatures as the hibiscus.

No matter what type of home you live in there are always ways to surround yourself with beautiful plants and make your outdoor spaces more attractive, not to mention fragrant. Just remember to read the tags on any plants you choose, or ask the helpful staff wherever you are buying your flowers and they’ll be sure to assist you in creating a delightful garden environment.