How-to: Designing a Garden in Small Space

Gardening in a small space has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Spending time outdoors, surrounded by plants, is excellent for your mental health. In Saskatoon, our growing season is such a short window – from June to October if we are lucky. Being able to bring plants quickly inside from extreme weather can extend this growing season dramatically.  If your balcony or small patio is vacant, consider making a green space with these creative ideas. And if you feel constrained by budget and space for outdoor living in your home, this blog is for you. 

Container gardening.

• While this idea seems apparent, it is also the most versatile solution. If you are ever bored with the outdoor decor, containers can be changed to fit any style from one year to the next, or overgrown plants can be repotted.
• Bring the plants inside when the weather gets cold overnight and set them back out during the day when temperatures warm. Doing this will dramatically increase the length of the growing season, both indoors and out. 
• When choosing the perfect container, it is essential to not only think about the style but drainage and how large the plants will become.

Mini home edible garden!

• You don’t need a huge plot or shared garden space to grow food. One of the most rewarding parts of gardening is indulging in eating what is produced. The best way to achieve this is with various herbs! To achieve this, try planting them in a multiple-pocket terra cotta pot as they don’t take up a lot of space. The herbs will complement any salad or beverage. 
• Some other delicious fruits and vegetables to incorporate into your green space are strawberries or cherry tomatoes; the plants tend to stay smaller and are also great for walk-by snacks! 
• Another great way to add more vegetable variety to your life is with a grow bag for potato plants. They can grow up and out with the bag and produce a lot of potatoes.

Vertical grow up.

• If your space is ultra-small, like a balcony or patio, vertically hanging plants might be the answer. Try adding a window box or hanging boxes off the balcony railing. A ladder, living wall or tiered shelves are another excellent way to add dimension to the space. 
• Another great choice is purchasing a small greenhouse kit, which would work well not only in a tiny space but also in the shade.
• Consider trailing plants and taller trees to cover your space in greenery.

Secret Garden Oasis.

• There are many other great options for gardening that are low maintenance. Plastic plants look life-like and don’t require water or attract pesky bugs. Place the plant in a cute pot and create an instant feature area.
• Reflecting your indoors outside, decorate the area with a great set of outdoor furniture, add pillows, blankets, and a gorgeous outdoor rug, this will set off the whole look. Install a collection of fairy lights across the entire roof to create ambiance.

Of course, when renting or being a part of a condo association, make sure to check in with the board before permanently installing any hardware. But my best tip is to make sure you set a budget before you go shopping at a garden center. It’s easy to get over-excited and buy everything in sight. Take it from me! I hope these tips inspire you to start your own little piece of paradise and add some magic to your outdoor space. Enjoy creating a unique outdoor space! 

Still looking for that space with just the right amount of potential? Contact me today to find your dream piece of Saskatoon real estate!