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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 enjoys gardening but finds it difficult to follow your hobby because of a lack of space, limitations from your landlord, 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. An addition to improving the ambiance of your rental property and saving money, making your rental property feel more like home is advantageous for your mental health. 

Types of Gardening and Landscaping Options for Renters 

As a renter who enjoys gardening and landscaping, one of the first things you should think about is what kind of option best fits your needs in terms of both space and budget. The following are some of the most practical and popular options for renters: 

  • Container gardening is an adaptable method for growing plants in a rental house. With advantages like movability and control over soil and water conditions, you can grow a wide variety of plants in containers to create various levels and areas of interest. A watering can, seeds or seedlings, potting soil, pots, and fertilizer are all that are required to get started. Recycled materials can also be utilized to fashion inventive containers. 
  • Vertical gardening is a space-efficient method of adorning walls with vegetation for renters. It entails cultivating plants on vertical elements like fences, hanging planters, and trellises. You can cultivate a variety of plants, make a living wall, conserve floor space, and enhance the quality of the air. Keeping plants healthy and securely fastening structures are challenges. To fasten constructions to walls, you’ll need materials like fabric, metal, wood, or screws, as well as tools like brackets, screws, or nails. 

Challenges and Solutions for Gardening and Landscaping in Rental Properties 

Certain challenges, like space constraints, landlord restrictions, and maintenance costs, may be unique to renters and not homeowners. Nevertheless, these obstacles are not insurmountable; in fact, certain strategies can assist you in surmounting them. 

  • Limited space: When outdoor space is limited, container or vertical gardening should be considered. You can rent a plot to cultivate your own plants by locating community gardens in your vicinity. 
  • Landlord restrictions: Before gardening or landscaping, consult your landlord. Obtain written permission and be willing to engage in negotiations. 
  • Maintenance costs: Use organic and homemade fertilizers and pesticides, share tools and resources with other gardeners, and select low-maintenance native plants to save money on 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. Rent agreements or strict rules may prevent some landlords from allowing 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. In the descriptions or photos of the property, look for indications of gardens or landscapes. 
  • Before signing a lease or moving in, find out from your landlord what their standards are for landscaping and gardening. To prevent future disputes, look over the lease for any provisions pertaining to yard maintenance and obtain written consent. 
  • Compromise with your landlord if they don’t entirely agree with your gardening goals. Limit your gardening to specific areas or offer to pay for a gardener. Provide illustrations of how your gardening can raise the value of the home. 

Best Practices and Tips for Gardening and Landscaping in Rental Properties 

Gardening and landscaping in rental properties can be an enjoyable and lucrative pastime, but it also demands careful consideration and preparation. These best practices and tips for gardening and landscaping in rental properties will help you make the most of your outdoor space and keep your landlord and neighbors happy. 

  • Select plants that thrive in the climate, soil, and lighting 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. 
  • For gardening and landscaping, employ organic and environmentally sustainable practices that include composting, mulching, conserving water, and refraining from the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This will contribute to waste reduction, environmental protection, and cost savings. 
  • For your landscaping and gardening, come up with a unique aesthetic and theme. Some ideas include a Zen garden, a tropical oasis, or a cottage garden. You can express your individuality and create a warm and welcoming space by utilizing accessories, colors, textures, and shapes. 

Renters and homeowners who wish to reap the advantages of being green thumbs can do so by taking up gardening and landscaping. By using our suggestions, you’ll be able to express your individuality and sense of style, save money, improve your mental health, and improve the curb appeal of your home. There is something that will work for you and your tastes, regardless of whether you have an outdoor space—a patio, a backyard, a balcony, or none at all. 

For all of your rental-related inquiries, we recommend contacting Real Property Management Commonwealth. In the Cambridge area and beyond, we have a large selection of rental properties available. Contact us today online or browse our available rental listings to find your dream home!

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