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3. USE THE POWER OF PLANTS Increasing the use of plants on your balcony invites nature in and helps create a restful and serene space. The type of greenery you'll be able to choose will

depend on the climate where you live and whether your balcony gets mostly sun or shade, as well as the season. "Be practical when selecting plants and potted plants for the balcony,”

Proxmire says. “If you do not have a green thumb, then stick to low-maintenance plants — ask your local nursery for suggestions.” Daniel Reyes and his wife, Sarah Hendley, own Lida's

Jungle in St. Petersburg, Florida, which specializes in tropical and exotic plants. Reyes recommends people choose sun-tolerant plants that are interesting and unique. The Euphorbia lactea

“White Ghost” is one of Reyes’ favorites. The white cactus grows into a candelabra-like shape. If space is tight, go vertical. A vine-covered trellis or lattice panel can provide privacy as

well as a courtyard aesthetic. "Wall-mounted plants are great because you can put different varieties on a wall,” says Reyes, who recommends jungle cactus because it can tolerate the

sun and some cooler temperatures. In the winter, you can opt for lifelike artificial greenery such as panels of faux boxwood or ivy to line rails. If you prefer real plants, try English

boxwood or Japanese plum yew, evergreens that can withstand freezing temperatures and look beautiful in pots. Furniture will influence how a balcony is used. Kip Dawkins As with any garden

outdoor space, balconies can feature accents such as potted plants, ornaments and water features. LaRue added a hummingbird feeder. "That was a COVID summer addition and I wish I had

put one up way sooner,” LaRue says. “The tiny hummingbirds that stop by every day bring so much joy and life to my little balcony. I'm in love with these amazing creatures.” 4. CONSIDER

THE SEASONS "Colder winter months may make it more challenging to make use of a balcony,” especially since apartments usually prohibit the use of propane heaters, LaRue says. Instead,

look to put sheepskins on benches and padding on furniture, and add warm wool blankets to your outdoor entertaining accessories. "While this may not work in the dead of winter with

subzero temperatures,” La Rue says, “you'll at least be able to extend the use of the balcony." Most importantly, “creating a functional, beautiful outdoor space should be about

you,” she says. “What brings you joy, how you love and what's important to you." _Merlisa Lawrence Corbett is a contributing writer who covers sports, interior design, business and

human interest stories. A former reporter for _Sports Illustrated_ and tennis columnist for _Bleacher Report,_ her work has also appeared in_ Essence _and _Black Enterprise_. She is the

author of the biography _Serena Williams: Tennis Champion, Sports Legend and Cultural Heroine_._