ASK DIARMUID

Q

My apartment is on the third floor. I am blessed with a large balcony, but it’s north facing so in shade for most of the day, and can suffer in the wind. Which plants are best suited to grow in this situation? Thanks in advance.

Sarah, via Instagram

A

I’d recommend easy-to-grow evergreens such as skimmia (pictured), box, euonymus, viburnum and Pinus mugo. Under-plant with shade-tolerant ferns, epimediums, ivies and heucheras. Astelia would be a great statement plant with its large silvery leaves. Add colour with violas and pansies in winter and begonias in summer.