4 tips for creating the perfect winter balcony

Now that December is right around the corner, it’s time to take in the patio furniture and throw away the withered annuals. But, just because the flowers and warm weather are gone doesn’t mean your balcony has to turn into a barren wasteland. 

There are tons of ways to make your outdoor space into a cozy getaway to relax with a cup of mulled wine or apple cider. To help you get started, we’ve put together four tips to help you get inspired and create a little “winter garden getaway.”

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1) Keep it lush with evergreens

Your balcony can be beautiful all winter long with some low-maintenance evergreen trees. Try planting small, hardy evergreens (like upright cedars, junipers, dwarf alberta spruce, boxwoods) in a planter, or cluster dwarf varieties in a window box to bring some life to your balcony.

When selecting winter plants, Martha Stewart recommends choosing varieties that can survive in a zone colder than your region. She also advises planting evergreens in fresh soil with a top-layer of mulch in a container with good drainage.

Sheridan Nurseries suggests watering your outdoor containers throughout the fall into late November so that the soil is full of moisture when it freezes. This will help prevent your plants from drying out.

Choosing the right container is essential to your outdoor plants’ survival. Materials like terra cotta, concrete, clay, and ceramic are less likely to hold up in freezing temperatures, and cast iron will rust and stain your balcony. It’s best to look for containers made of moisture-resistant woods, half whisky barrels, high-grade plastic pots, fiberglass, or polyethylene.

Make sure your containers have at least one drainage hole and try to find pots with some form of insulation. You should also aim for pots that are ½”-2” thick, and a minimum of 16” deep and wide. If the temperature drops below 20 degrees, Martha recommends temporarily moving the pots to a sheltered space (like a garage) or a covered portion of your balcony.

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2) Add cozy lighting

Just because the nights are getting longer doesn’t mean you can’t spend time outdoors on your balcony. Add some cozy lighting with holiday lights or candles to create an inviting and warm outdoor space.

Many people choose to do the traditional “wrap-the-railing” technique when hanging holiday lights on a balcony. You can also get creative and add a string of twinkle lights to a lantern, a glass dome, or a seasonal arrangement.

If you plan to spend some time out on your balcony enjoying the first snowfall, create a cozy space with lanterns and candles. Place a candle inside your lantern with some evergreen branches, moss, rocks, and pinecones for a seasonal accent piece.

If you don’t want to worry about real candles on your balcony (sometimes they’re not even allowed), purchase a few LED flickering candles. These handy devices create the same effect without the risk of lighting your ornamental cedar branches on fire.

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3) Find the right furniture

Make sure your furniture is ready to withstand the elements. Plastics get brittle and easily snap in the cold, and wrought iron will rust and stain your balcony. It’s also important to avoid furniture with fabrics and cushions. In wet conditions, these materials harbor mold and mildew.

Instead, look for furniture made of metals or natural materials. According to Bob Vila, teak is the most durable wood and turns “an elegant silver with time and exposure to the elements.”

Synthetic wicker and most aluminum furniture will also survive the elements for a few years. If you decide to leave your aluminum furniture outdoors throughout the winter, Vila suggests applying a coat of automobile wax for some extra protection.

If you live in a more mild climate or have a covered balcony, keep some thick tartan throw blankets on hand. Now you’re all set to bundle up and enjoy your balcony space with a hot chocolate on a lazy sunday afternoon.

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4) Add a personal touch

Once you’ve got some plants, cozy lighting, and the right furniture, it’s time to unleash your creative side and add your own personal touch. Try creating a seasonal arrangement featuring cedar branches, birch wood, berries, and pinecones, or get crafty and put a winter spin on one of these homemade modern wreath tutorials.

For an antique look, pay a visit to your local thrift store or your parent’s basement for a pair of old skates, snowshoes, vintage skis, or a small wooden sled. These items make great accent pieces for a rustic outdoor space.

Do you enjoy your balcony throughout the winter? Share your winter balcony décor ideas with us at @NewHomeBuyers or Facebook!

Feature image via Pinterest