We all know that plants won't grow without light!
However, if we want to be precise, not all balconies receive the same amount of sunlight, and this can be an important factor to consider when choosing the varieties to cultivate.
What is the right position for a balcony garden?
In general, balconies or terraces that receive abundant sunlight for most of the day are more suitable for cultivation than those with little sunlight.
Each plant has its own sunlight requirements that must be met to achieve the best results. Plants that love "full sun" prefer a south-facing exposure, while those that prefer "partial shade" thrive in a north-facing exposure.
If you want more details about sunlight exposure and understanding which plants are best suited for your balcony, read our article: Balcony Garden? Discover the Right Sunlight Exposure for Cultivation.
Don't worry, though – there's a solution and suitable plant types for every balcony; it just takes a little ingenuity. With just a few considerations, you can start cultivating your customized garden just the way you like it!
With Poty, you can cultivate varieties with different sunlight needs
Don't limit yourself! Opting for a vertical garden like Poty allows you to cultivate varieties that thrive in both sun and shade simultaneously.
By utilizing height and arranging the vegetables according to their needs and size, you can grow a wide variety of species in very little space, without compromising on your plants' light requirements. Moreover, verticalization ensures better sunlight exposure compared to horizontal cultivation on a single level because the upper plants receive more light.
Another crucial aspect not to be underestimated is irrigation. Plants exposed to the south will need plenty of water, especially in the summer months when watering twice a day is recommended. On the other hand, for plants exposed to the north, it works the opposite way: you need to be careful not to overwater to avoid waterlogging.
With Poty, you don't have to worry about this risk because each module has automatic drainage, providing balanced and constant hydration – an excellent solution that allows you to care for your plants even while you're on vacation!
Different plant types in one system? It's possible!
If your balcony is directly exposed to the sun, simply position shade-loving plants at the back of Poty so they won't receive direct light, and place sun-loving plants in the sunniest part.
If your terrace receives little sunlight during the day, don't give up on cultivation! Just select plants that require less direct light or simply wait a little longer for your harvest. Usually, for those who garden for pleasure and not professionally, they won't even notice the time difference.
If you live in a very cold area, Poty is also suitable for indoor cultivation. Just move the garden inside, choosing the brightest spot, preferably near a window. Indoor plants, unlike outdoor ones, receive direct light only from one side and tend to grow more in that direction. Simply rotate your Poty periodically (every 10 days) to ensure all seedlings receive the right amount of light.
How to Position the Plants?
Agronomist Sara Petrucci explains how easy it is to use Poty in this video. Once placed in the brightest area of your home or balcony, you can proceed with positioning the seedlings!
For example, in the lower pots, species that require more space and good exposure, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cucumbers, are recommended. Mid-height pots, on the other hand, are reserved for species that prefer partial shade. You can choose your favorites from the "leafy" varieties such as 4 season lettuce or arugula or "stem" varieties such as fennel.
"Bulb" plants like spring onion require less water but a bit more light and should be placed in the uppermost pots. Finally, the top pots of the garden are perfect for mediterranean herbs such as oregano, marjoram, and basil, which thrive in full sun.
Explore our catalog for inspiration – you'll find a wide selection of seedlings, classified by type and transplant season.
Enjoy your cultivation!