How do I start a simple terrace garden?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Select starter plants that are compatible with your light and climate conditions. Basil, for example, will grow vigorously with 4 hours of sun. Jade plants, being succulents, thrive in partial shade. These hardy plants will thrive with little care. Water them when there is an inch of dry soil on top of the ground. This will prevent drought and avoid overwatering.
Container Preparation
- Drill ½-inch drainage holes in reused containers every 6 inches
- Line bottoms with landscape fabric to keep soil contained
- Elevate pots using bricks for air circulation underneath
Soil Mix Formula
- Combine 60% potting mix, 30% compost, 10% perlite
- Fill containers leaving 2 inches below rim for watering
- Test drainage by watering until it flows freely from holes
Plant Placement Strategy
- Group sun-loving plants on south-facing edges
- Use vertical shelves for shade-tolerant varieties below
- Rotate pots weekly for even light exposure on all sides
Place containers in areas with ample light, avoiding overcrowding. Tomatoes, which prefer full sun, may be planted in southern locations. At the same time, in northern places, plenty of shade is needed for leafy green plants. A tiered plant stand will help make the most of available vertical space, as this arrangement of containers creates microclimates that protect from the extreme temperatures of sun, wind, and cold.
Regularly observe your garden each week, checking for pests and progress toward maturity, while also continuing to eliminate yellowing leaves in their early stages to prevent the spread of various diseases. For a consistently good harvest, given your garden's compact size, add organic fertilizers every four weeks during the growing periods.
Read the full article: 10 Transformative Terrace Garden Ideas
