Garden Tips? How can I find out what are the best potted plants that will survive very cold and very hot temp?

Look for a nursery or greenhouse that you can get to. Those people can advise you the best, because they are dealing with plants all the time. It is really fun to walk through and see what they have and what you like. There are a lot of tough plants. When summer comes you can probably find some colorful annual flowers that will do well in pots until the next freeze. I don't know where Antelope Valley is in Cal, so can't tell you much more without knowing.

Near as I can determine you are north of L.A. in the mountains. The regular zone maps don't fit well. You are in zone 10 which gives you a winter temp similar to Miami, FL. But, you are in a desert climate which gives you extreme summer heat and drought. The link below is to a major flower growing company based in Ca. It seems likely you will find some help there.

If your balcony faces east, northeast, or even north you have more choice than if it faces south, west, or northwest where it gets the worst of the heat. Choose heat tolerant annuals like moss rose (Portulaca) in white, yellow, orange, and pink to red; periwinkel (Catharanthus) in white, rose and red; or dwarf lantana in yellow or white.

Harsh winter in CA ????

Try NH, colder than Fairbank Alaska

Susanville is Zone 7

go to your local home and garden center or nursery they would know for sure but i think that geranuims and pansys and petunias are nice for potting and colorful

What plant zone are you in?