Create A Flower Garden On Your Balcony, Deck

Even “yardless” gardeners can grow spring-flowering tulips, daffodils and other bulbs in containers on decks and balconies, says the Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center.

Anything from a half-barrel to a terra-cotta pot or old wheelbarrow can be used as a container. Be sure the container has drainage holes for excess water to escape. This prevents root rot.

“Double decking” is an easy way to grow lots of bulbs in one container. It’s like making lasagna. Plant a layer of tall-growing bulbs (tulips, daffodils) in a container and cover with three inches of soil. Place a layer of low-growing bulbs (grape hyacinths, crocuses) and cover with another five inches of soil. Water well.

To plant many tulips in one large container, use several layers of bulbs that flower at different times. Carefully read the label information on bloom times. Choose bulbs that bloom at different periods - early, mid and late. The result will be a colorful combination that phases in and out of bloom, providing weeks of successive color.

Bulbs can be planted very close with their edges just touching for a mass-planting effect, or they can be spaced 1 or 2 inches apart for a looser flower bed.