Gardening offers a rewarding escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but for renters, the idea of building a garden can seem to have its challenges. Without the luxury of permanent garden beds or ample outdoor space, many renters feel restricted in what they can do in order to garden. However, with creativity and the right strategies, renters can enjoy a thriving garden without compromising their lease agreement or investing in permanent changes.
In this article, I will explore some practical tips and ideas for gardening as a renter, helping you create a beautiful, functional space that suits your lifestyle and rental situation.
Assess Your Space and Light Conditions
Before diving into gardening, it’s essential to assess the space you have available. Whether you have a small balcony, a patio, or just a windowsill, understanding your space will help you make informed decisions about the type of garden you can create.
Outdoor Spaces:
If you have access to a balcony, patio, or shared yard, consider the amount of sunlight the area receives throughout the day. Most plants require at least 6-8 hours of sunlight, so choose a spot that gets plenty of natural light. Alternatively, if a sunny spot is not available, you will need to assess the space that you do have, and then consider what type of plants will grow with the limited sunlight available.
Indoor Spaces
For those without outdoor space, a windowsill garden can be a great option. South-facing windows offer the most light, but east or west-facing windows can also work well for certain plants.
Choose the Right Containers
One of the advantages of being a renter is the ability to use portable containers for your garden. Containers allow you to move plants as needed and avoid making permanent changes to your rental property.
Pot Selection:
Choose pots with good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots. Terra cotta, ceramic, or plastic pots are all excellent choices, depending on your aesthetic preference and budget. But, do consider where the water that drains from the pot will go.
Size Matters:
Consider the size of the plants you want to grow. Larger plants like tomatoes or small shrubs will need bigger pots, while herbs and flowers can thrive in smaller containers. But, do not think that bigger is always better - pots that are too big, require additional watering, while pots that are too small can become too hot and dry out quickly. It is always best to start with a pot that is the right size for your plants and then repot into a larger pot as the growth of the plant necessitates it.
Select Plants Suited for Container Gardening
Not all plants are suitable for container gardening, so it’s important to choose species that will thrive in the space and conditions you have.
Vegetables:
Many vegetables can be successfully grown in containers. Tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, and radishes are all excellent choices. Consider dwarf or bush varieties that are bred for compact spaces.
Herbs:
Herbs are perfect for container gardening and are often low-maintenance. Basil, rosemary, thyme, and parsley are popular choices that can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Flowers:
If you’re looking to add colour to your space, opt for flowering plants like petunias, marigolds, or geraniums, which are well-suited to container life.
Create a Portable Garden
A portable garden is a flexible solution for renters who might move frequently or want the option to rearrange their garden. Here’s how to create one:
Wheeled Plant Stands:
Invest in wheeled plant stands or platforms that allow you to move your pots around easily. These are readily available to purchase online, or if you are a little bit handy, they are very easy to make. Wheeled plant stands are particularly useful for chasing the sun throughout the day or rearranging your space.
Vertical Gardening:
Use vertical space to your advantage by installing a portable vertical garden. Hanging planters, tiered shelves, or wall-mounted racks can maximise your growing area without taking up much floor space.
Window Boxes:
Window boxes are another great option for renters. They can be easily mounted on railings or windowsills and are ideal for growing flowers, herbs, or small vegetables.
Use Smart Watering Techniques
Watering is crucial to the success of any garden, and container gardens have specific watering needs.
Consistency is Key:
Container plants typically dry out faster than those in the ground, so regular watering is essential. Check the soil moisture daily, especially during hot weather, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Self-Watering Containers:
Consider using self-watering containers that have a built-in reservoir. These containers can reduce the frequency of watering and help maintain consistent soil moisture levels.
Water Conservation:
If your rental agreement includes water usage limits, be mindful of water conservation. Collect rainwater in a small barrel or use a drip irrigation system to minimise water waste.
Compost for Containers
While traditional compost piles may not be feasible for renters, there are still ways to provide your plants with the nutrients they need.
Small-Scale Composting:
Consider a small compost bin or a vermiculture (worm composting) system. These can be kept on a balcony or in a kitchen and are great for recycling kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost.
Store-Bought Compost:
If composting isn’t an option, you can purchase high-quality compost or potting mix from a garden centre. Look for organic options that provide the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth.
Consider Temporary Garden Structures
If you have a yard or patio and want to create more substantial garden features, consider using temporary or removable structures.
Raised Garden Beds
Portable raised beds can be placed on patios or in yards and are perfect for growing vegetables or flowers. Look for kits that are easy to assemble and disassemble, so you can take them with you when you move.
Trellises:
Trellises can add vertical interest to your garden and support climbing plants like beans, peas, or even decorative vines. Free Standing trellises are ideal for renters, as they don’t require permanent installation.
Shade Cloth:
If your garden area receives too much direct sunlight, consider using a portable shade cloth to protect your plants. Shade cloths can be draped over plants or attached to lightweight frames to reduce the intensity of the sun.
Get Creative with Indoor Gardening
If you’re limited to indoor gardening, there are still plenty of ways to create a lush, green space inside your home.
Herb Gardens:
Indoor herb gardens are both practical and decorative. Use small pots or a tiered herb planter to grow a variety of herbs on a sunny windowsill.
Houseplants:
Houseplants not only add beauty to your living space but also improve air quality. Consider low-light plants like snake plants, pothos, or zanzibar gem (ZZ) plants if your apartment doesn’t receive much natural light.
Grow Lights:
If natural light is limited, invest in Grow Lights to provide the necessary light spectrum for your plants. These can be placed above your plants or mounted on a wall to ensure they receive adequate light - please note that the light from your standard home lighting does not provide the full light spectrum that plants require for healthy growth
Engage with Your Landlord
Before making any significant changes or additions to your rental space, it’s a good idea to consult your landlord. They may have specific guidelines or restrictions on what you can do, particularly if you’re considering using outdoor space or attaching anything to walls or railings.
Get Permission:
Always seek permission for larger projects, such as installing raised beds, trellises, or large planters. Present your ideas clearly, and emphasise that your modifications will be temporary and reversible.
Offer Improvements:
Some landlords may be open to improvements if they enhance the property’s value or aesthetic appeal. For example, a well-maintained garden could be seen as an asset.
Enjoy the Benefits of Gardening
Gardening as a renter may come with some challenges, but the benefits far outweigh the effort. Gardening can improve your mental health, provide fresh produce, and create a relaxing space to unwind. With careful planning and a bit of creativity, you can enjoy all the rewards of gardening, no matter where you live.
Gardening for Renters - FAQs
Yes, you can start a garden even if you're renting! Container gardening is an excellent option for renters since it doesn't require altering the landscape. You can grow a variety of plants, from flowers to vegetables, in pots and containers. Always check with your landlord before making any permanent changes to the property, like digging up the yard or installing raised beds.
The best plants for rental properties are those that are easy to move and maintain. Consider growing herbs, small vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes, and decorative plants like succulents and flowers in containers. These can be easily transported if you need to move and won't cause any damage to the property.
To avoid damage, stick to container gardening or use raised beds that sit on top of the ground rather than digging into the soil. If you're planting in the ground, use mulch to protect the grass and be cautious of any permanent structures. Always get permission from your landlord before making any changes to the landscape.
If you're moving, you'll need to decide whether to take your plants with you or leave them behind. Container plants can be easily moved to your new home. If you've planted in the ground, discuss with your landlord or the new tenants about leaving the garden or transplanting your plants before you go.
It's always a good idea to check with your landlord before starting a garden, especially if it involves any changes to the property like digging or installing garden beds. Many landlords are supportive of gardening, but it's important to have clear communication to avoid any misunderstandings.
Gardening for renters is all about flexibility and creativity. By choosing the right containers, selecting suitable plants, and using portable solutions, you can create a beautiful garden that suits your living situation. Whether you’re working with a small balcony, a patio, or just a windowsill, you can make the most of your space and enjoy the many benefits of gardening - start small, experiment with different plants and setups, and have fun developing your gardening skills in your rental home.
