Balcony Gardening

The microclimate on the balcony in early spring

So I took a risk and planted my tomatoes and peppers into containers last week. I do this every year in April and have never had problems with it, but this year is different as it is unusually cold. I received quite a few worried questions from my family and frieds, whether I am not worried about frosty nights. I was..... but I also know from experience, that the balcony has its microclimate, that will protect the plants. Now obviously, this will not work with every type of balcony. If it is an open balcony with no side walls and no ceiling, the plants will be very exposed and would suffer. I am fortunate enough to have a sheltered balcony from 3 sides and the house is also radiating heat and as such the plants are fine even when temperatures drop below zero. And its been bellow zero last night and it will be minus 2 celsius this night.
Another factor, that plays a big role is the orientation of the balcony. My balcony faces south-east and that is perfect. I get th e morning sun, which heats up the plants and the balcony first thing in the morning. So there I am, standing on the balcony, looking at frosted cars across the street, which are hiding in the shadow of the apartment block and the sun is caressing my cheeks and my plants are looking healthier than ever. See for yourself: