There are many small and weak-growing conifer species and varieties for pots: They grow bushy, with a trunk, pyramid-shaped, and have different needle colors and shapes. If you choose different variants, your balcony won't be boring, even with just coniferous trees. As a rule, the trees are quite easy to handle and care for.
How do I care for conifers on the balcony?
To plant conifers on the balcony, choose small-growing species in light clay or ceramic pots. Make sure there is good substrate and drainage, water regularly and fertilize with low-nitrogen fertilizers. Hardy conifers can overwinter outside.
Location and substrate
Location and substrate depend on the species chosen, as each conifer has different preferences in this regard. However, unlike garden plants, you fortunately don't have to choose your potted plants based on their preferences, as you can provide them with the conditions they need. This at least applies to the substrate, which can be mixed individually for each tree. Some conifers need sandy, rather poor soil, others prefer humus-rich, loose substrate and still others only feel comfortable in acidic rhododendron soil.
Planting and care
The different species also differ greatly from each other in terms of care.
Choosing the planter
Clay or ceramic pots (€25.00 on Amazon) in light colors are ideal for coniferous trees so that the roots in them do not heat up too much. Avoid dark colors and plastic containers, as these retain heat more and can quickly lead to overheating - not to mention that plants in such pots need to be watered much more often and run the risk of drying out more quickly. Repot the coniferous trees into fresh substrate about every two to three years.
Drainage
Although coniferous trees should always be kept slightly moist during the summer months, waterlogging should still be avoided. This leads to root rot and thus the death of the plant. To prevent this, ensure good drainage that contains the following components:
- Drainage hole on the bottom of the pot base
- Potter shards or a layer of expanded clay on the bottom of the pot
- This prevents the drain hole from clogging up.
- Mixing the substrate with expanded clay beads
- Place the pot on a saucer where the water can drain away
- regular pouring out of excess water
Watering and fertilizing
In summer, coniferous trees in pots should be watered regularly, although the substrate should only feel slightly moist. Fertilization is carried out with low-nitrogen, preferably liquid fertilizers for green plants or, if it is a species with a preference for acidic soil, for rhododendrons. Prepare only a weak dose and administer it approximately every two weeks between March and the end of July.
Tip
Winter-hardy conifers can also overwinter in a pot outside, provided you place the pot on an insulating surface (e.g. a wooden disk or Styrofoam) and wrap the pot with fleece.