Small Space Flower Garden Ideas

Go vertical with climbing clematis for color in a small spaceclematis 1 image by michael luckett from Fotolia.com

Growing flowers in a small space is a great challenge for the avid gardener. Even a tiny balcony can become a haven for birds, butterflies, bees and people alike. A narrow strip of ground can grow sunflowers 12 feet high, and 5 square feet of good soil has endless possibilities. Start with flowers that have clumping, not running, growth habits. Vary low-growing flowers with tall ones, and don't be afraid to add a trellis and a vine for extra color and greenery.

Use Color to Add Depth

Cool colors add depth, much the same way as a room painted a light color will seem bigger than one that's painted a dark color. Blue delphinium, lavender, larkspur and purple coneflower are good examples of tall, cool-color perennials. Low-growing annuals like lobelia, artemesia and dusty miller are small and compact cool-color plants. Surround a warm-colored flower like orange poppy or vibrant yellow black-eyed Susan with cool colors for a richer palette.

Don't be afraid of trellises and vines in small spaces. As long as you train the vines to grow up and not creep along the ground, they won't become invasive. Bougainvillea, clematis, morning glory, honeysuckle and corkscrew vine can be trained easily with plant ties or twine. They add big bursts of color in summer and can even provide a privacy screen if positioned properly. If you don't have a trellis, train them to climb a fence, drainpipe, stair or balcony rail, or plant them in hanging baskets. Plant a sunflower or two, but be prepared to stake and tie them when they get taller than 6 feet.

For balconies and other cramped spaces, go for containers full of annuals. Containers come in every shape and size, from urns to tall pots, window boxes and hanging baskets. Change them up a little to get varying heights, shapes and textures. Plant annuals like impatiens, geranium, petunias, vinca and herbs for a season's worth of delight. Water and fertilize container plants regularly to keep them healthy and vigorous.