Balcony plants: Heat‑tolerant annuals and fragrant pelargoniums recommended for summer

Gardening guides in the Czech Republic and Slovakia advise city dwellers on selecting balcony annuals that can endure the hot summer months. Both pieces highlight five hardy species, including compact tomato varieties and resilient geraniums, that keep blooming despite high temperatures and occasional drought. A special focus is placed on fragrant pelargoniums (muškáty), whose scented leaves repel insects and tolerate short dry spells better than many ornamental flowers. The articles recommend planting a mix of vivid bloomers with more subdued companions, using well‑draining containers, light substrate, and regular but moderate watering—allowing the top layer of soil to dry before re‑watering. Practical tips such as pinching back growth for a denser habit and propagating cuttings are also provided.