Oleander is a fantastic choice for adding a Mediterranean vibe to your balcony or patio. To make sure your plant thrives and keeps those gorgeous blooms coming, there are a few things you should keep in mind regarding its location and care.
Ways to Grow Your Oleander
Oleander is pretty versatile and can be grown in a few different ways:
- As an indoor houseplant
- As a unique Bonsai
- As a standalone focal point in the garden
- Or, most commonly, in pots and containers on balconies and decks.
Give Your Oleander Some Elbow Room
Growing oleander in a pot is super easy, but you’ve got to give it enough space to breathe. These plants are vigorous growers and can reach heights of up to 15 feet if they’re happy! Because of this, it’s best to use a large container and let the oleander be the star of the show—it usually prefers to live alone rather than sharing a pot with other plants.
Are Window Boxes a Good Idea?
Standard window boxes aren’t usually the best fit for oleander. Not only does the plant need plenty of room, but it also doesn’t like competing with “roommates.” If you really want to use a window box, keep the oleander as the sole inhabitant. However, since pots and planters are deeper and allow for better root development, they are always going to be a better choice than a shallow box.
Tips for a Happy Balcony Oleander
When picking the perfect spot, think “bright and toasty.” South-facing balconies are the gold standard here. Just try to find a nook that offers a bit of protection from heavy rain or harsh, drying winds.
Watering and Feeding
If you want that lush growth, you can’t be stingy with the water. On those scorching summer days, your oleander might even need a drink twice a day to keep from drying out. Don’t forget the “food,” either—regular fertilizing is essential for those iconic blooms.
Keep it Shapely
Giving your plant a regular trim will help it maintain a beautiful, bushy shape and prevent it from getting too leggy.
Winter Care on the Balcony
Even though oleander is an evergreen, it’s definitely not a fan of the cold. You’ll need to move it to a protected winter home before the first frost hits. Trying to overwinter oleander outside on a balcony is risky business. It might work in very mild climates, but once temperatures dip below 23°F (-5°C), your plant can suffer some pretty serious damage. Better safe than sorry!
