Living in Indian cities often means dealing with small balconies, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the beauty of fast-growing plants in your apartment. Balcony gardening offers an easy and affordable way to green up your space. Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance options or just want to see quick results, there are many fast-growing balcony plants that are perfect for Indian weather conditions.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best plants you can grow on your balcony, focusing on fast-growing species that are easy to care for, provide aesthetic appeal, and are affordable. Whether you’re new to gardening or looking to expand your green space, these options are perfect for Indian homes.
1. Money Plant (Pothos)
One of the most popular and fastest-growing balcony plants in India is the Money Plant. Known for its ability to thrive in indirect sunlight, this low-maintenance plant is perfect for apartment dwellers. Its vines can grow several feet in a few months, making it a great choice for hanging planters or climbing walls.
- Growth Rate: Very fast.
- Light Requirements: Indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Moderate, let the soil dry between waterings.
The Money Plant is also known for its air-purifying qualities, which makes it perfect for improving the air quality in your apartment. It is one of the most resilient plants, thriving even with little care. According to Forbes, the Money Plant is a top choice for indoor gardeners due to its adaptability and rapid growth .
2. Basil (Tulsi)
Tulsi or Holy Basil is a sacred plant in India and a common feature in Indian households. It’s not only easy to grow but also grows very quickly, especially in sunny conditions. Tulsi can thrive on balconies that get direct sunlight for at least 4 to 6 hours a day.
- Growth Rate: Fast.
- Light Requirements: Full sunlight.
- Watering: Water daily during summers.
Tulsi also has medicinal benefits and can be used to make herbal teas. Fast-growing and fragrant, this plant is ideal for Indian climates, particularly during the monsoon season when it thrives.
3. Bougainvillea
For those who want a splash of color, Bougainvillea is one of the fastest-growing flowering plants for Indian balconies. Known for its vibrant pink, orange, and red bracts, this plant can grow several feet in just a few months if provided with sufficient sunlight.
- Growth Rate: Extremely fast.
- Light Requirements: Full sunlight.
- Watering: Water sparingly.
Bougainvillea is perfect for adding color to your balcony. It’s also a climber, so it can easily cover walls, trellises, or balcony railings. Its drought-resistant nature makes it a great plant for low-maintenance gardening.
4. Marigold (Tagetes)
Marigolds are known for their bright orange and yellow flowers, and they are one of the fastest-growing flowering plants you can have on your balcony. They grow quickly and start blooming within weeks of planting.
- Growth Rate: Fast.
- Light Requirements: Full sunlight.
- Watering: Water regularly.
Marigolds are excellent pest-repellent plants, so growing them in your balcony garden can also protect your other plants from pests. They’re hardy and thrive in most climates, making them one of the best fast-growing plants for Indian weather.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is not only a medicinal plant but also a fast-growing and low-maintenance option for your balcony. It is drought-resistant and can thrive even in harsh sunlight, making it ideal for Indian summers.
- Growth Rate: Medium to fast.
- Light Requirements: Direct sunlight.
- Watering: Water once every two weeks.
Aloe Vera is perfect for small balcony spaces, and its gel can be used for skincare and other home remedies. According to Healthline, Aloe Vera is an excellent indoor and balcony plant due to its minimal care requirements and numerous health benefits .
6. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade Plants are small succulents that grow quickly under the right conditions. Known for their thick, oval leaves, these plants thrive in bright sunlight and are incredibly low-maintenance.
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate.
- Light Requirements: Full sunlight.
- Watering: Water once the soil is dry.
Jade Plants are great for Indian balconies that get plenty of sunlight. They’re easy to propagate from cuttings, making them a popular choice for fast-growing balcony plants.
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
For shady balconies, the Peace Lily is an excellent choice. This plant grows well in low-light conditions and is known for its stunning white flowers. Though it may not grow as fast as some others on this list, it is still relatively quick when given the right care.
- Growth Rate: Moderate.
- Light Requirements: Low to indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist.
Peace Lilies are also known for their ability to improve indoor air quality, making them a great addition to any balcony garden.
8. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake Plants are some of the hardiest balcony plants you can grow in India. They are slow to moderate growers, but under the right conditions, they can reach their full height in a short time. They tolerate neglect well and are known for their ability to purify the air.
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate.
- Light Requirements: Indirect sunlight to low light.
- Watering: Water occasionally.
Snake Plants are excellent for urban dwellers who may not have the time to tend to their plants regularly.
9. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider Plants are ideal for those looking for a fast-growing, low-maintenance option. These plants grow quickly and can thrive in indirect sunlight. They’re also known for producing offshoots, which can be easily propagated.
- Growth Rate: Fast.
- Light Requirements: Indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Water when the topsoil is dry.
Spider Plants are great for hanging baskets or placing on balcony railings, making them perfect for small spaces.
10. Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Ferns are great for shady balconies and grow well in humid environments. They are fast-growing and add a lush, green aesthetic to your space.
- Growth Rate: Fast.
- Light Requirements: Indirect sunlight.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist.
These fast-growing balcony plants are perfect for Indian homes, offering both beauty and practicality. Whether you want flowering plants like Bougainvillea and Marigolds, or low-maintenance options like Snake Plant and Aloe Vera, there’s something for every balcony garden. Many of these plants can be easily purchased online, allowing you to start your green journey without hassle.
With minimal care and effort, you can transform your small apartment balcony into a lush, green sanctuary.
