Reeds are an attractive way to protect yourself from prying eyes from your neighbors on the balcony and terrace - without a building permit! In the following you will find out which types of reeds thrive best on balconies and terraces and what needs to be considered in terms of plants and care.

Reed forms a dense, natural privacy screen

Which types of reed are suitable for balconies and terraces?

In general, most Chinese reed and reed species can also be grown in pots. However, you should keep in mind that if you choose a very tall reed species, such as the giant Chinese reed, you will need a very large planter and will have to transplant the plant into a larger container every few years.

Professionals recommend the Chinese reed species Miscanthus sinensis 'Malepartus' with a growth height of 0.75 - 1.25 meters for breeding on the balcony, as well as the giant Chinese reed Miscanthus x giganteus, which grows up to two meters high, for a high level of privacy protection .

sunny or shady?

Reeds like it sunny, this also applies to balcony plants. It also thrives well in partial shade. However, if your balcony is completely in the shade, you should look around for another balcony plant, since reeds grow much more slowly in the shade.

Water the reeds on the balcony properly

Chinese reed likes it moderately damp, but does not cope well with waterlogging. Reeds, on the other hand, can cope with excessive moisture - after all, it is a riparian plant. So make sure you have adequate drainage, especially with Chinese reed. You can also plant reeds in water, e.g. in an attractive bucket pond.

Caring for reeds on the balcony

Proper watering is the be-all and end-all. The reeds only need fertilizer once a year, preferably in the form of compost. A pruning in the spring after the winter break is highly recommended to remove old, dried stalks and make room for new greenery.

Overwinter reeds on the balcony

In general, both Chinese reed and reed are hardy. When keeping them in a bucket on the balcony, it still makes sense to provide winter protection to protect the roots from freezing. How to overwinter your reeds on the balcony:

  • In no case do not cut the stems, but tie them together to protect the roots from moisture.
  • Wrap the bucket with a blanket or other insulating material.
  • Place your reeds in a wind-protected place, e.g. on a house wall.

Category:

Vegetable garden