May 19, 2023, 12:57 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
The favorites were already chosen in March, and now they can finally be planted–the Balcony Plants of the Year 2023. Once again, the regional gardening associations have made their decision and selected some beautiful new varieties.
Once a year, the regional gardening associations come together to select the most beautiful, useful, and easy-to-care-for plants for balconies and flower beds. This has become a tradition. Each region has its own winning plant, but since these plants thrive beyond regional borders, the five Balcony Plants of the Year 2023 have been chosen. myHOMEBOOK presents them and also shares planting and care tips.
Overview
What criteria were considered in the selection?
There are countless summer bloomers that impress with their beauty. For several years now, some regional associations have been meeting once a year to select the Plants of the Year. They consider factors such as care requirements, insect-friendliness, blooming duration, and plant health.
1. “Dufte Lippen” (Salvia greggii)
This new variety is a particularly hardy and beautifully blooming type of sage that is also very resistant to heat and drought. Its native regions are Texas and Mexico, but it can now be used as a container or balcony plant here as well. It has been bred to remain small and compact. Its bloom is particularly striking, resembling a mouth with upper and lower lips. Insects are literally drawn to it. In addition to a rich cherry red, it is also available in violet, pink, and rose. It was chosen as the Flower Bed and Balcony Plant of the Year in Baden-Württemberg and Hesse.
2. “Alpenglühen” (Petchoa–a mix of Petunia and Calibrachoa)
Bavaria chose “Alpenglühen” as the Plant of the Year. It is a new Petunia variety that shines in the colors of the alpine glow. This new variety combines the special characteristics of Petunia and Calibrachoa. The plant is particularly hardy and rain-resistant. You can skip deadheading, making it especially easy to care for. Unlike other Petunia varieties, its leaves do not stick, making it less unpleasant to touch.
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3. “Königsfächer” (Scaevola)
The “Königsfächer” in an unusual pastel pink was chosen as the Balcony Plant of the Year 2023 in Rhineland-Palatinate. It is very popular with insects and can handle a sunny and sometimes even dry location. The plant pairs well with other summer bloomers and does not require deadheading, making it very low-maintenance. The Königsfächer has a bushy and slightly trailing growth, making it perfect for containers or hanging baskets.
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4. “Elfie” (Nemesi)
In the north, a vibrant purple-blooming Nemesia called “Elfie” was unanimously chosen. Behind this choice is the Wirtschaftsverband Gartenbau Norddeutschland e.V. “Elfie” has a jasmine-like fragrance and a stunning color effect. It blooms until fall, providing long-lasting enjoyment. The ornamental plant fits wonderfully in containers or balcony boxes, but also looks great in flower beds. It should be watered regularly, and a bit of liquid fertilizer once a week can help.
5. “Petite fleur” (Petunia)
Saxony chose a colorful floral carpet as the Balcony Plant of the Year 2023. “Petite fleur” is a Petunia that can be planted in pots or containers, as well as used as ground cover in gardens. Its many, almost countless blooms earned it the title. It is very easy to care for. Sunlight does not bother it; in fact, it loves sunny spots. It grows and branches quickly, so it should be given some space in the pot initially.