Preparing the Balcony for Winter

It’s that time of year again. It’s getting to be too cold to sit out on the balcony. That means we need to bring in the cushions. We used to cover the seating with tarp like material. But for the last two years there have been decorative coco lined window box containers hanging on the backs of the chairs - so the covers don’t fit. Usually the loveseat and chair sit across from each other. But now we turn the chairs to face out so that the window boxes face our living room. That way, we can see whatever is in the baskets from inside of the house. Last year we ordered some liriope, ivy and violas to plant from Ginkgo Gardens in DC. The liriope and ivy survived the summer season, and we got a few winter pansies to replace the annuals. I think I prefer the violas to pansies because they have more flowers. But the best part about this floral arrangement is when Christmas gets a little closer. We always like to dress the boxes with Christmas greenery, sticks, and some decorations that are suitable for outside. Last year we were stuck at home for obvious reasons. This year we are hoping to make a family trip to central Virginia. So I’ll probably just put up decorations outdoors. So as long as we are able to see the “garden” from the living room it will be just fine and is really all we need.