If you’re renting and think you shouldn’t touch a thing… well, we need to have a chat! Of course, as we mentioned in another post, if you’re dealing with damp or leaks, it’s best to let your landlord know so they can sort it out. But a garden? That’s a different story, and I’m here to show you how it’s possible.
Sometimes the furniture isn’t to your taste, the wallpaper is downright awful, the neighbours can be a bit of a nuisance… but the place itself? The place is brilliant. Have I mentioned how great the location is? Because it really is.
And so you’re always thinking about making a few changes, but then you hold back, right? After all, it’s not your property, the landlord might want it back at any time, or life might throw you a curveball and you have to move on quickly. So why bother?
You, my friend, definitely need some rental garden ideas…
Here’s the secret
The key to rental gardens is flexibility. Even if you’ve got limited space or don’t want to make major changes, you can still create a cosy little nook that’s entirely your own …… with your personal touch, your scents, your vibe.
If you’re not very experienced (or simply short on time), start with pots. Lots of pots. With pots, the sky’s the limit. You can grow herbs on the windowsill, flowers tucked into a corner, or even a mini olive tree in a big container.
Mix and match textures for visual interest
…. pair spiky succulents with trailing ivy, or pop a few cheerful geraniums next to feathery ferns. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a dwarf lemon tree — it’ll give your space a Mediterranean feel, and you might even get a fruit or two if you talk nicely to it.
Need to move? No problem. Pack it all up and off you go! No (major) mess, no holes in the floor.
And here’s a tip: Use lightweight plastic or resin pots that look like terracotta, they’re easier to lug around when it’s time to say goodbye.
If your indoor space is tiny or you’ve just got a small balcony, go to town with vertical gardening. Hang shelves, fix pots to the wall, or use an old ladder as a plant stand …. and if it’s wooden and well treated, it looks really charming!
You can also use trailing plants like nasturtiums. These little touches make the space feel much more welcoming. Don’t forget about height: Tall, slim planters with bamboo or ornamental grasses draw the eye upward, making even the tiniest patio feel bigger.
Nowadays, you don’t even have to drill holes. Those sticky hooks are surprisingly sturdy and can hold quite a bit of weight. You can hang not just plants, but fairy lights, hanging baskets, even a bird feeder — all without leaving marks!
For extra stability
use a few hooks together for heavier items, or reinforce them with a dab of removable adhesive.
Speaking of lights
you know the drill: no harsh spotlights, this isn’t a hospital. Use warm, soft lighting — yellows, ambers, that sort of thing.
Have fun experimenting with what feels best and most comfortable for you. Try solar-powered string lights — they’re eco-friendly, easy to move, and charge up during the day so you can enjoy their glow guilt-free at night.
Attracting wildlife is often easier than attracting humans, honestly. A simple bird feeder or a small water dish can make all the difference. You can even create a little habitat for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that are more than welcome in your garden.
Add a shallow dish with pebbles for bees to land on while they drink, or tuck a bundle of hollow sticks into a corner for solitary bees to nest.
But don’t go overboard! It’s also worth getting to know your landlord …. what kind of person are they? If they don’t like change, stick to plants that won’t take over.
No bamboo, definitely! Mint only in pots, unless you want to drive them mad. Stick to annuals or slow-growers like lavender, rosemary, or compact hydrangeas. They’ll give you colour and structure without threatening to colonise the entire garden.
Pansies or marigolds are great for quick colour, they’re cheap and won’t require any fuss. And since I mentioned mint and you’re probably already dreaming of fresh mojitos, scent is a big deal too! Herbs like thyme, sage, or lemon balm are low-maintenance and release their fragrance when brushed against …. perfect for paths or seating areas.
We’ve talked about sensory gardens before, but it’s always worth a reminder: a pot of lavender or jasmine can make a huge difference day to day.
Also, make good use of any movable items you have or can easily get hold of …. old crates, teapots, even a chest tucked away in the corner where you can store your tools and those bags of compost you swear you’ll use next weekend.
Repurpose an old wooden pallet as a vertical herb garden …. lean it against a wall, add a few pots, and suddenly you’ve got a living pantry.
Don’t underestimate the power of a good rug. An outdoor-friendly rug can instantly warm up a concrete slab or balcony, making it feel like an extension of your living room.
Pair it with foldable chairs and a side table, and you’ve got a spot for morning coffee or evening wine.
Remember, there are always alternatives. Find a balance, don’t go over the top, and embrace the imperfections of the moment.
With a little effort, your rental garden will become your favourite spot, and when it’s time to move on, you can take it with you ! along with all the memories and feelings it’s given you.
And who knows? Maybe your next landlord will be so impressed, they’ll let you plant a proper rose bush. Stranger things have happened.
P.S. If all else fails, buy a very convincing fake olive tree. We won’t judge.
