Containers, balconies and windowsills

Most young people in the UAE live in flats or homes with little outdoor space, and that is fine. Containers let you grow almost anywhere, as long as you get the pot, the mix and the safety right.

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Choosing a container

• The RHS says drainage holes in the base of a container are essential. If a pretty pot has no holes, use it as an outer cover with a plastic pot inside.
• Size matters: for vegetables, the RHS suggests containers at least 45cm deep and wide where possible. Smaller pots dry out faster and need more watering and feeding.
• Unglazed terracotta dries out more quickly than other materials; plastic holds moisture longer and costs less but can degrade in strong sun (RHS).
• For balconies, the RHS recommends lightweight, non-porous containers with ample drainage holes, as they reduce moisture loss.
• On a budget, Gulf News gardening experts suggest reusing buckets, crates or old containers, as long as each has drainage.

Potting mix, not garden soil

• The RHS recommends peat-free multi-purpose compost for short-term plants such as vegetables and herbs, and soil-based compost (such as John Innes No 3) for longer-term plantings.
• As general advice, soil-based compost is heavier than multi-purpose compost, which matters on a balcony.
• A Dubai-based gardening expert quoted by Gulf News suggests a home mix of cocopeat, compost or manure, with perlite or sand added for drainage.
• For container vegetables, the RHS suggests a general-purpose liquid feed every two weeks once plants are growing.

Balcony safety comes first

• The RHS says there are strict weight restrictions on balconies: wet compost, large pots and people all add load. Keep heavy containers near the wall of the building, not at the outer edge.
• Never put pots on ledges, railings or window sills on the outside of a building. A falling pot from height can seriously injure someone below.
• Strong wind is one of the main limits on balconies (RHS). Use low, wide pots, and add weight such as stones at the bottom of tall, narrow pots so they do not blow over.
• Keep balcony doors, railings and escape routes clear, and never climb on furniture or railings to reach plants.
• If you rent or live in a family flat, check your building's rules before adding large planters or anything fixed to walls.

Being a good neighbour

• Water draining from pots can drip onto balconies below. One Dubai community notice, reported by Khaleej Times, told residents not to let water from watering plants run down onto other balconies.
• Use saucers or trays under pots and water slowly so you can stop before it overflows.
• Sweep up spilled soil and leaves so they do not blow off the balcony.
• Do not throw anything from a balcony, including plant waste: the same notice says throwing waste from balconies is strictly prohibited.

Windowsills and small indoor spaces

• A bright windowsill is a good place for herbs; the RHS suggests a south-facing windowsill for herbs brought indoors.
• Turn pots a quarter turn every few days so plants grow evenly towards the light.
• Group a few small pots on a tray to catch drips and make watering quicker.
• Keep windowsill plants away from the direct cold blast of an air-conditioning vent.