The wife and I recently moved to a new apartment and we have a really good sized balcony. We’re thinking of getting a propane grill, a table, and a balcony garden. But, I have no idea where to even start. I like trees, jasmine, and color. That’s about all I know.
I’m in the Sacramento area.
Camellias, fuchsia, ornamental ficus, maybe a gardenia. Gardenias like a little morning sun to flower better. They have a scented white flower you might like.
Star jasmine will grow in shade, but the regular one won’t.
Small plants for colour: begonias, impatiens, coleus, lobelia, viola
Put plants in pots at least twice the size of the pot it comes in when you buy it. You can put more than one plant per pot, as long as they each have room.
Water everything at least once a week, more if it’s hot.
Loca nurseries will tend to sell plants that do well in your area and are a good place to ask for advice.
Schefflera grows very well in a pot and is extremely tolerant of bad lighting and poor watering habits. They have some frost resistance as well, although you should bring them indoors if it gets very cold.