7 Reasons To Grow Native Plants on Your Balcony
If you live in an urban jungle surrounded by concrete structures, a balcony or terrace garden, however small, can be a refreshing space. But when planning a garden, most urban dwellers neglect local plants, instead choosing exotic varieties for their aesthetic beauty. However, there are several reasons why you should include native plants in your home terrace garden, as they are naturally adapted to the local climate and environment, making them resilient and low-maintenance.
Whether you design your entire garden with native plants or include a few varieties in a small balcony garden, these thriving plants can transform the space into a sustainable oasis. In this article, you can learn about the benefits of growing native plants on your terrace or balcony.
1. Native plants are easy to grow and low-maintenance
Since native plants have evolved in the local environment, they require minimal care compared to exotic varieties. Maintaining exotic plants comes with the hassle of regular watering, frequent fertilisation, and extensive pest control. On the other hand, native plant varieties thrive with little attention. It makes them an excellent choice for terrace or balcony gardens of urban dwellers with a busy lifestyle, providing a beautiful garden that requires little care and effort.
2. Support the local ecosystem
Native plants also help bring back some of the biodiversity lost during urbanisation. A garden with local plant varieties provides butterflies, bees, and birds a natural habitat. Hibiscus and jasmine are native plants that enhance the balcony or terrace garden’s beauty while supporting the local ecosystem. They provide a food source and shelter for beneficial insects.
3. Native plant varieties improve the air quality
Since air pollution is becoming a concern in many metropolises and cities, incorporating native varieties in the garden landscape helps create a healthier living environment for you and your family. Some native species have air-purification qualities as they absorb or filter toxins and release oxygen into the environment. Sansevieria (Mother-in-law’s tongue) and Areca Palm are local varieties that improve air quality.
4. Less pest control
Since native varieties are adapted to the local environment, they naturally resist local pests and diseases. Thus, you not only save yourself from exposure to harmful chemical pesticides but also save money on pest control. Some native plants act as natural pest repellents.
5. Medicinal benefits
Many native plants have medicinal uses. So, growing them on your balcony allows you to experiment with natural remedies – aloe vera for skin care or minor burns, holy basil and mint for coughs and colds, etc.
6. Promote sustainability in your terrace garden
Since native plants require less water and fertiliser, they are an eco-friendly alternative. Growing them helps conserve the environment and reduce your carbon footprint. Moreover, a garden with native varieties helps preserve local flora and prevents the loss of indigenous plant species.
7. Aesthetics and cultural significance
Many native plant species, such as marigolds and holy basil (Tulsi), are intrinsic to our local culture. They hold religious significance and are used during festivals or for rituals. So, they offer a lot more than aesthetic beauty. Growing them on your balcony or terrace reinforces an age-old connection to nature and our heritage.
As is evident, there is more to growing native plants on your balcony than their natural beauty. So, whether you are looking for an eco-friendly gardening option or having flowers for worship within reach, native plants are an excellent choice. Start growing a few easy-to-maintain varieties, and watch your home terrace garden or balcony transform into a thriving oasis that brings you closer to nature.
