I live in a condo in the city. It’s on the 19th floor, facing East. I’m looking to get some plants for my balcony. Can you recommend a few that are not high maintenance and would survive the season or longer? I also have a dog so want to make sure it’s not toxic for him. Thanks!
Thank you for your question – you are not alone in wanting to plant a garden on your balcony.
Toronto Master Gardeners have a comprehensive guide that offers information on many considerations for balcony gardening and is an excellent starting point for choosing and planting a balcony garden. https://www.torontomastergardeners.ca/gardeningguides/container-gardening-a-toronto-master-gardeners-guide/
Our website also has numerous answers to previous questions about various aspects of balcony gardening and suitable plant choices. Please type in “balcony gardening” in the search bar of the site and you should see several good questions and answers that are similar to yours. You mention that you want the plants to survive for more than one season, so you might want to look for answers about growing perennials in pots on balconies. Perennial plants must be overwintered outside in pots that are fairly large and that are insulated.
The Ontario SPCA has a list of the most common plants that are poisonous to pets that should serve as a good reference when you are choosing plants. https://ontariospca.ca/blog/poisonous-plants-flowers/
Finally, Toronto Master Gardeners offer free presentations at many Toronto Public Library branches and some are specific to balcony and container gardening. Please check the website and look for “Upcoming Events” to see if there is a presentation at a convenient branch. This is a great way to learn in person and have a Master Gardener available to answer your questions.