Containers for attaching to balconies?

I planted some free wildflower seeds. They're growing but I was told they can get straggly if kept inside and that it's better if possible to keep them outside. Can anyone suggest any good containers available in the UK - like a trough kind of thing - that I can attach to a handrail on a balcony-like object and put the plant tubs in (I don't actually have a balcony to stand on, it's more like a rail to make sure people don't fall out the window :hehe? I don't have my own garden space.

Also, how do you protect young plants outside from the elements whilst being in whatever containers they end up in, or do you think they'll be ok?

 

First thoughts. What you've got is a 'juliet balcony', either you can buy something to hang over it (suggested sites below) or that you make something. If you're into making - a piece of wood 44 x 18 mm placed horizontally along the inside of the balcony with (perhaps) a small plastic planter or two securely screwed (or better still - bolted) to it, on the outside.

There are several type of containers that will fit over your balcony, here are a few sites you might find helpful:

http://www.gardenxtras.com/catalogue.asp?catcode=6
http://www.dobbies.com/Stewarts-Balcony-Trough-Set-40cm/pid-VAR238156
or go to Amazon and put in 'balcony planter' - you may need to scroll down to the bottom of the amazon page for the 'also viewed' items.

Just a couple of things to remember of course - that the container is secure, (you wouldn't want it falling on someone's head!); it's weight when it's full of 'earth' and the watering aspect, again you wouldn't want to 'water' anyone passing below!

Having said that, I'd suggest either just standing a few potted plants in the trough or putting a layer of polystyrene in the bottom then filling up with multi-purpose compost - as opposed to earth.

In the main, plants will always have to put up with the elements and I'm guessing your balcony might be subject to strong air currents, so either I'd suggest you fashion some sort of wind-break (some sticks threaded through fine netting and pushed firmly down into the growing medium, for example) or that you choose lower growing plants - pansies, primula etc.

Personally, I'd grow something like mixed 'cut and come again' lettuce (salad leaves) - one packet of seeds would you keep you going all season.

 

Geraniums always look cheerful on balconies and will survive all summer outside, regardless of the weather.

Windflowers grow tall, depending on what they are (I'm thinking cornflowers) and can be a bit spindly as they grow up through grasses etc usually, so might not survive winds intact.

 

I agree with SussexG. Trailling gers would look splendid

Above ground floor, I would put the container on the inside of the balcony

 

If it's a Juliet Balcony (a railing in front of a full length double door window) there won't be the room for the container to go on the inside.

 

Then makesure it cannot fall off.