In order for balcony furniture and plants to survive the cold season, some protective measures are required. These are the most important tips.
The time to sunbathe on the balcony at home is coming to an end, autumn is just around the corner. Some preparations are required so that both furniture and plants can be used again next year.
These plants belong in the house
Not all potted plants are suitable for the autumnal weather change. Especially at night it is already too cold for some flowers in autumn. From less than ten degrees, geraniums and bougainvilleas belong indoors, ideally in a dark place at ten to 15 degrees. Before moving to the winter quarters, the plants should be checked for pests, fertilized one last time and cut back. It shouldn't get too warm during the autumn and winter break, as this attracts parasites. In addition, only sparing watering and good ventilation apply.
Protect winter-proof plants on the balcony
Pansies, lavender, herbs like sage or thyme as well as ivy and roses survive the winter season on the balcony – despite the freezing cold. But they cannot do completely without protection. With tub plants, the main thing is to keep the roots alive. From the end of October you should therefore cover them with leaves or fir branches, this keeps frost off. In addition, buckets don't belong directly on the floor. As a result, the cold reaches the roots more quickly, which are mostly damp due to the wet autumn weather and then freeze. Styrofoam sheets, wooden boards or a sleeping mat offer sufficient protection. Also place the plants close to the house wall.
Clean garden cushions
If garden cushions spend the summer mainly outside, stains and dirt will accumulate over time. If the pillows have a removable cover, all the better: It can be cleaned quickly after a wash cycle at 30 degrees in the machine. Important: always take a look at the washing label beforehand.
If the cover cannot be removed, sensitive care is required. In such a case, the upholstery does not belong in the washing machine. Instead, first treat the stains with lukewarm water and a soft brush, adding a little detergent if necessary. Harsh detergents and hard scrubbing can damage the upholstery and fade the color.
Once the upholstery has been cleaned, it should be allowed to dry completely before storage. Damp pillows form mold quickly. If you don't have a garment bag, you can store the upholstery in a large garbage bag. That keeps dust and moths away.
Cover balcony furniture
In addition to the upholstery, the balcony furniture also needs weather protection. The material plays a crucial role here. If benches, tables and chairs are made of metal or plastic, they can easily be left outdoors with a protective cover. Wooden furniture made of rubies or eucalyptus needs an impregnation so that it can stay out on the balcony during the cold season. Lacquered furniture, on the other hand, belongs in the basement. Here, too, make sure that there is no moisture. This also applies to the parasol. If you also remove dirt and algae from it, you will still have some of your sun protection in the next season.