North-facing balcony, Edinburgh

[BIoodyStupidJohnson]

Does anyone have any suggestions for plants I could grow on my balcony?

I’ve just moved into a new flat that has little iron bays outside the windows. Not big enough to step out onto but enough for a few plant pots.

Thing is, I have no clue what to grow!

The area is north facing. It’s light but gets virtually no direct sun, if that makes sense (ie not shadowed by nearby buildings). I’m first floor, and partway up a hill, so some wind exposure. Plus, you know, Edinburgh.

The bays have iron railings but I wouldn’t be allowed to put up any bamboo or rattan shielding panels, due to city council rules.

I was wondering about azaleas or rhododendrons but I think it might be too exposed.

Any thoughts? Thanks in advance 🙏🏻

I don't usually recommend ivy in a garden, but for a site like that you really can't beat it. Get a long windowbox and plant it up with one of the golden, small-leaved ivies, and let them grow through the bars and dangle over the edge a bit. In pots they won't get too big.

You could always put something more colourful in the summer (add nasturtiums to your pots, for example).

There are also some herbs that grow ok in shade - Mint, coriander, chives for example. They might not survive the winter, but are cheap and easy to replace.

www.gardenersworld.com/plants/shade-loving-herbs-to-grow/

Ooh that's an interesting idea, thanks Turquoise

I might just need to check I'd actually be allowed to grow ivy; they're generally a bit twitchy about climbers around here because the suckers attach to the buildings, which are protected.

But if I can, ivy's a great shout, thank you. I have several pothoses (pothi?) inside so there would be an element of visual continuity going on as well.