Digging In

The secret to being an ace gardener and having plants that grow lush and strong is simple: you have to respect the plants' needs for sunlight, water, and healthy soil. But beyond that, living in the city or a condo building without your own yard doesn't make having a garden the easiest activity. You might have to get a bit creative when making room for your garden.

1. Sunny Windowsill

You don't need to have grandiose outdoor space to start an urban garden. So long as you're happy with smaller plants and have a sun-filled window in your place, you're in business and on your way to being a master at gardening in the city. 

When picking out the plants you'll grow here, herbs, cacti, succulents, and flowering plants that don't require too much space will work best. Keep an eye out for cute pots that aren't too deep, and have a water tray to catch any extra water to make sure it doesn't drown your plants or leak out onto your windowsill and/or funiture. 

2. Fire Escape

Take a queue from global cities around the world, such as Paris, and use every outdoor space to master the art of urban gardening and add grenery to the exterior of buildings. The fire escape is a perfect venue for your urban garden - it provides outdoor space, and a built-in trellis for your vines or vegetables plants to scale and lean on as they grow.  

3. Patio or Deck

If you have your own back deck or patio, thank your lucky stars - you have a good amount of space to convert into a sanctuary filled with any number of plants. The opportunity to become an urban garden master, or horticultural specialist, is in your hands. When you have this much space, plan your garden carefully and use your space wisely - keep plants that spread quickly in their own pots, and make sure you have a balance of full-sun and shade-loving plants to they don't all want the full-sun areas.

4. Roof top

Don't forget about the roof. If you have access and it's safe to be on the top of your building, use this space for a garden (maybe add some solar panels while you're up there!). With a large amount of space, navigate with your neighbors to segment off an area for your patch of plants. Raised beds will work well here, and make the most of the space you have available. 

Whether you have abundant outdoor space or not, you can easily become an urban gardening pro. Make sure you understand the different requirements of the plants you're tending and have the right supplies, know the shortcomings of your space so you can compensate (e.g., acquire a grow light), and you'll be good to go!

If you're interested in learning more about getting your garden started, download our ebook on the 5 key steps to planning your urban garden.