10 Plants Your Summer Balcony Needs

3. Geraniums

Bright blooms that bring bold color and curb appeal

I used to think geraniums were just for old-fashioned gardens or grandma’s porch. But then I saw them in a balcony display in New York during early June—pops of red, pink, and coral spilling out of window boxes like confetti—and I was instantly converted. These are the kind of balcony flowers that make your neighbors stop and ask, “Hey, who’s your plant guru?”

Turns out, they’re not only gorgeous—they’re tough as nails, easy to grow, and perfect for city living.

Best Varieties for Small Spaces (Spoiler: They Love Containers)

Geraniums come in more types than you might expect. The most popular ones you’ll see are zonal geraniums, which have those classic round flower heads and marbled leaves. Then there’s ivy geraniums, which trail beautifully over edges—perfect for balcony boxes or hanging baskets.

I went with zonals in deep red and coral for my own patio containers, and they’ve been thriving in my sunny LA-facing balcony. If you’re short on space, stick with compact varieties like ‘Tiny Monster’ or ‘Balcon’—they don’t get too big but still pack a visual punch.

Sun & Water: Keep It Simple

Let me be clear: if your balcony gets at least six hours of sun a day, geraniums will love you. They thrive in full sun and actually do better when slightly neglected. I water mine once a week, maybe twice during super hot weeks, and always let the soil dry out between watering.

Overwatering is the fastest way to kill them—trust me, I lost one to soggy soil before I figured that out. Use a well-draining potting mix, and don’t crowd the pots. Give them room to breathe.

Decorate Your Space Like a Pro (No Design Degree Needed)

Geraniums are seriously one of the best seasonal decorating plants. I switch out my spring pansies for geraniums every year—it’s an easy swap that gives my outdoor space a fresh summer feel.

Pair red geraniums with white cushions for a crisp look, or go bold with cobalt blue pots and yellow accents. I even use them in container gardening themes with trailing sweet potato vine or silver dust for contrast. Instant curb appeal, no matter how small your balcony.

Pest Problems? Not Usually!

One thing I love about geraniums: they’re pretty much left alone by pests. No aphids, no slugs, nothing! Just the occasional yellow leaf I trim off to keep it tidy.

They also bloom from late spring all the way through fall—if you deadhead regularly. Don’t skip this step! Pinch off the faded flowers and you’ll get new buds faster. My balcony has looked lively all season because of it.

Ready to add something a little more tropical next? Let’s talk about bringing a touch of green indoors (and outdoors) with the ever-popular fiddle leaf fig. Click “next” to see how to style and care for this trendy plant the right way!