As a renter, you might not have much control over landscape decisions around your property. You might even think having a garden is out of the question. However, if you have a green thumb or you want to pick up an eco-friendly hobby, there are things you can do to create an outdoor garden, even as a renter.
The biggest hurdle will be approaching your landlord. They’ve put a lot of work into creating an outdoor space that’s appealing to renters, and their biggest concern will likely be making sure it stays that way. However, if you can show them that your garden will add value or boost curb appeal, you might be able to make it happen.
Let’s go over a few tips you can use as a renter to create an outdoor garden without disturbing the landscape of the home.
Choose The Right Projects
First and foremost, be sure to ask your landlord for permission to make these updates — but be sure to do so in the right way. If you’re concerned about asking your landlord for permission to create a garden, think about which outdoor projects would add the most value to the home and property. Chances are, they aren’t going to be upset about you making improvements if it ends up benefiting them.
Some of the best projects to boost curb appeal and those that have a high ROI are energy-efficient upgrades. Outside, that could include things like solar panel installation or rain barrels. Not only could they save you (or your landlord) money on utility bills, but they’re a great marketing tool and can be used to entice future renters to live at the property.
Many of these upgrades also tie into a garden very well. For example, you can use collected rainwater to keep your garden space healthy without wasting anything from the tap. Solar panels can be used to power both your indoor needs and any electrical outdoor tools you might need.
Finally, be sure to point out to your landlord that a garden naturally adds curb appeal to a home. A low-maintenance garden can help increase a home’s value. It might seem silly to create a pitch about a garden, but the more you’re able to “sell” the idea, the more likely you are to succeed.
Make Small Changes
Maybe your landlord doesn’t want you to dig up the yard or make major changes to the landscaping. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a garden — you just need to think of some alternative solutions.
If you live in an apartment or small rental home, you can have either an indoor or outdoor garden with a bit of creativity. A balcony garden is common for apartment living and some plants do well in containers and garden beds, including:
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Peas
- Geraniums
- Heliotrope
- Clematis
You’ll have to do a bit of research to determine which plants will work best in your climate so you know how much sun and water they need. Luckily, your plants will already be in containers, making them much easier to move until you find the right spot.
Alternatively, if you want to bring things indoors, consider low-maintenance plants that are good for you and can help to clean the air, such as:
- Peace lilies
- Golden pothos
- Spider plants
- Ferns
- Bamboo
It’s also easy to grow herbs indoors, even if your space is limited. If you love to cook, having fresh herbs at your disposal can fulfill that “itch” to have a garden space.
Make Sustainable Upgrades
More than ever, people are looking to live sustainably in and around their homes. Raised garden beds can be a good place to start, but if you convince your landlord that you’re creating an eco-friendly garden that could boost interest in the home, they might be more on board with it. To do that, put some of the following ideas into practice with your garden space:
- Start composting
- Create a greenhouse
- Use mulch
- Choose plants that don’t need much water
Any future renter with an interest in landscaping would be happy to see these upgrades, and your landlord needs to know that. In the meantime, you can save money on your water bill, and you get to enjoy the natural mental and physical health benefits of having a garden.
Of course, an outdoor garden is just one component of an eco-friendly landscape. If you truly want to convince your landlord that a garden is the right move for the property, do your part to make sure the rest of the yard is in top shape and you’re utilizing eco-friendly practices, such as when caring for the lawn or existing plants, to keep it as sustainable as possible.
Whether you want to grow your own produce as part of the urban farming movement or you just want to enjoy a relaxing hobby, gardening is a great option. It’s easier to create an outdoor garden as a renter than you might think. Once you’ve cleared things with your landlord, you can get creative with your gardening endeavors without having to permanently change the look or the landscape of the property.