There’s something special about an Edmonton summer. After a long winter, the sun stays out late, patios come alive, and every bit of warm weather feels worth celebrating. If you're living at Southpark on Whyte, your balcony is the perfect place to enjoy the season—especially with a little greenery to make it feel like your own personal oasis.
Whether you have a green thumb or are just getting started, here are some fresh ideas for balcony gardening that work perfectly for our short but vibrant growing season.
1. Grow What You’ll Use—Fast-Growing Herbs & Veggies
With Alberta’s shorter summer, it makes sense to grow plants that thrive quickly. Herbs like basil, cilantro, and dill are perfect for containers and can be harvested within weeks. Want to go a step further? Try fast-growing leafy greens like arugula or lettuce—you’ll have your own salad mix in no time.
2. Choose Hardy, Sun-Loving Plants
The balconies here at Southpark on Whyte get plenty of sun, and our summer heatwaves can be intense. Choose hardy plants that can handle the sun and occasional dry spells—think geraniums, petunias, marigolds, or even succulents. Southpark’s modern balconies give you just enough space to create a curated mix of colour and texture that thrives in the heat.
3. Use Planters That Hold Moisture
The sun can dry out small containers quickly, so pick planters that retain water or add mulch to the top of your soil to reduce evaporation. Self-watering planters are also a great low-maintenance option, especially if you're taking weekend getaways to the lake or the mountains.
4. Maximize Vertical Space
Living at Southpark means living smart—and stylish. Use vertical garden racks, rail planters, or wall-mounted pots to add layers to your garden without cluttering your floor space. It’s a great way to show off flowers, herbs, or even strawberries, all within arm’s reach.
5. Create a Chill Zone
Combine greenery with comfort to turn your balcony into a true retreat. Add a small outdoor chair or lounger, some string lights, and maybe even a solar-powered lantern or two. Surrounded by plants and fresh air, your balcony becomes a perfect place for a morning coffee or late-night glass of wine—no car needed, no crowds, just your own peaceful slice of Whyte Ave living.
7. Don’t Forget the Pollinators
Even a balcony can help support local bees and butterflies. Native plants or colourful blooms like coneflowers, alyssum, and cosmos attract pollinators and look beautiful doing it. It’s a small way to support Alberta’s ecosystem—even in the middle of the city.
Bring Life to Your Southpark Balcony This Summer
Whether you’re planting fragrant herbs, bright blooms, or just a couple of low-maintenance greens, balcony gardening is a great way to personalize your space and enjoy summer to the fullest.
At Southpark on Whyte, you’re already in one of Edmonton’s most vibrant neighbourhoods—why not bring that energy home with a little balcony greenery?