Which Kit for a North-Facing Balcony
For a north-facing balcony, the Windowsill Kitchen Kit works best. Leafy greens and herbs tolerate indirect light. Fruiting kits need a grow light.
North-facing balconies get no direct sun. Choose varieties that tolerate shade.
Kit Rankings
| Kit | Works? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windowsill Kitchen | Yes | Best choice |
| First Harvest | Partial | Lettuce, radish, herbs ok |
| Small Space | No | Needs 6+ hours |
| Kids First | Partial | Radish, marigold ok |
| From Seed to Bouquet | No | Needs 6+ hours |
| Bee-Friendly | No | Needs 6+ hours |
What Grows on a North Balcony
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Mint
- Parsley
- Chives
- Cilantro
What Doesn’t
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
- Sunflowers
The Verdict
Best kit: Windowsill Kitchen.
Second choice: First Harvest (partial).
With a grow light: Any kit.
Common Questions
Can I grow tomatoes on a north balcony? Only with a grow light.
What about herbs? Most work.
Can I grow anything without a grow light? Leafy greens and herbs.
How many hours of light? Indirect only. 2-4 hours equivalent.
What about winter? Very dark. Grow light essential.
Can I grow flowers? Impatiens and begonias. Not sunflowers.