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Are You a Rental Property Tenant With a Green Thumb?

A female tenant tending to plants on a rental unit balcony. Are you a renter who has a strong desire to garden but finds it difficult to make time for it because of space constraints, landlord regulations, or expensive upkeep? You’re not alone. Regardless of where you live, this article will offer advice and inspiration for designing a stunning and environmentally friendly garden. Make your rental property feel more like home, when you garden and landscape. These are also cost-effective activities that can improve your mental health. 

Types of Gardening and Landscaping Options for Renters 

The first thing a renter who enjoys gardening and landscaping needs to think about is what kind of option best fits your needs in terms of both space and money. Practical and widely used alternatives for renters include the following: 

  • Container gardening is an adaptable method for gardening in a rental home. With advantages such as portability and the ability to regulate soil and water conditions, numerous plants can be cultivated in containers, thereby establishing distinct zones and tiers of interest. A watering can, seeds or seedlings, potting soil, pots, and fertilizer are all that are required to get started. Additionally, you can create unique containers out of recycled materials. 
  • Vertical gardening permits renters to incorporate vegetation into their walls while conserving space. Trellises, fences, or hanging planters are examples of vertical structures on which plants are grown. Many plants can be grown, floor space can be saved, a living wall can be built, and air quality can be raised. Difficulties consist of safely securing structures and maintaining vegetation. Attaching structures to walls requires instruments such as screws, nails, or brackets, in addition to materials such as fabric, metal, wood, or metal. 

Challenges and Solutions for Gardening and Landscaping in Rental Properties 

Limited space, landlord restrictions, and maintenance expenses are a few of the challenges that renters may encounter in contrast to homeowners. These difficulties can be overcome, though, and there are a few ways to do so. 

  • Limited space: With limited outdoor space, think about container or vertical gardening. You can rent a plot to cultivate your own plants by locating community gardens in your vicinity. 
  • Landlord restrictions: Before you do any landscaping or gardening, check with your landlord. Obtain consent in writing and be ready to compromise. 
  • Maintenance costs: By selecting native, low-maintenance plants, using homemade and organic fertilizers and pesticides, and pooling tools and resources with other gardeners, you can reduce the cost of gardening and landscaping. 

Finding and Negotiating with Landlords Who Are Open to Gardening and Landscaping 

Before making any changes to the property, renters who like landscaping and gardening should do some research and talk to their landlords. Rental agreements or stringent regulations may prevent some landlords from permitting it. 

  • Search for rental properties with gardening and landscaping as a feature. To narrow down your search results, use online platforms to add keywords, amenities, or preferences. Garden or landscape indications can be found in property descriptions or photographs. 
  • Before signing a lease or moving in, inquire with your landlord regarding their gardening and landscaping regulations and expectations. To prevent future disputes, look over any clauses in the lease that address yard maintenance and obtain written consent. 
  • Compromise with your landlord if they don’t entirely agree with your gardening goals. Decide what areas you want to garden in or offer to pay for a gardener. Illustrate instances wherein your gardening expertise can elevate the value of their property. 

Best Practices and Tips for Gardening and Landscaping in Rental Properties 

Although it can be a financially rewarding and pleasurable pastime, gardening and landscaping in rental properties also demand careful attention to detail. You should adhere to certain best practices and recommendations for gardening and landscaping in rental properties in order to make the most of your outdoor space and stay out of trouble with your landlord or neighbors. 

  • Opt for vegetation that thrives in the climate, soil, and light conditions of your rental property. You can identify and select plants that will flourish in your region and suit your preferences by utilizing online tools or applications. 
  • If you’re gardening or landscaping, try using organic and environmentally friendly techniques like mulching, composting, using minimal amounts of water, and staying away from chemical pesticides and fertilizers. This practice will contribute to environmental protection, cost savings, and waste reduction. 
  • Delight in landscaping and gardening in accordance with your personal taste and motif; for instance, design a Zen retreat, a tropical oasis, or a cottage garden. To show your individuality and make a room feel warm and welcoming, you can use accessories, colors, textures, and shapes. 

Landscaping and gardening are activities for renters and homeowners who desire to experience the advantages and benefits of possessing a green thumb. You can improve your financial situation, increase the desirability of your home, and exercise your individuality and sense of fashion by implementing the suggestions we provide. You can find something that suits your preferences and needs, whether you have an outdoor space of no balcony, patio, or backyard. 

If you have any questions about rentals, think about contacting Real Property Management Hometown. Beyond Benton, we provide an extensive selection of rental properties. Contact us today online or browse our available rental listings to find your dream home!

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