10 Plants Your Summer Balcony Needs

6. Snake Plant

Tough as nails and ultra-modern in style

If I had to pick one plant that’s earned its spot on this list, it’s the snake plant—also known as Sansevieria for those of us who like to sound fancy. This thing is basically indestructible. I’ve left mine outside on my balcony in Dallas through hot summers and even brought it indoors during cooler months without a single complaint.

Honestly, if you’re the kind of person who forgets to water plants for weeks (or months), this is your new best friend.

Why It’s Perfect for Forgetful Gardeners Like Me

I’m not gonna lie—I killed two different snake plants before I realized what was going on. Yep, even these hardy guys can suffer if you overwater them or stick them in the wrong pot. Once I switched to a well-draining soil mix and gave it a terracotta pot (which helps wick away moisture), it started thriving.

No matter how busy life gets—whether I’m juggling work, friends, or just straight-up forgetting to water things—it keeps growing. It’s literally survived being shoved in a dark corner while I traveled for three weeks. And guess what? It bounced back with zero effort.

Low-Light Tolerance and Drought Resistance = Balcony Dream Team

One reason I love having snake plants on my balcony is because they handle shade like pros. You don’t need full sun for these to do well. In fact, they prefer bright indirect light but will still grow slowly in low-light corners where other plants would throw in the towel.

They also require almost no water. Seriously. I go weeks—sometimes a month—without watering mine. If you’re the type who feels guilty about killing plants, this is your answer to low-maintenance greenery that still looks lush and intentional.

Styling My Space with a Plant That Goes With Everything

Snake plants are seriously the modern balcony decor MVP. The tall, architectural leaves add structure and clean lines to any space. I keep mine in a sleek black ceramic planter for minimalist vibes, but they also look great in woven baskets or macramé hangers for a more boho-chic aesthetic.

I’ve even grouped a few together in different heights for a mini indoor-outdoor jungle vibe. No matter your style—mid-century modern, Scandinavian, or eclectic—they fit right in.

Air Purification and Wellness Perks (Not Just Looks)

Let’s talk science real quick: snake plants are proven air-purifying plants. They help remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air—which is especially nice if you live in a city and want all the indoor-outdoor wellness benefits you can get.

Plus, there’s something oddly calming about knowing your plants are quietly working while you sip coffee or scroll through Pinterest. It’s like having a tiny, leafy roommate that never complains and actually improves your mood.

Alright, ready to meet a summer classic next? Let’s talk petunias—those cheerful, easygoing blooms that bring color and charm to any container garden. Click “next” to see why they deserve a spot on your balcony too!