Were you scrolling through Pinterest during quarantine and trying to figure out how to create your own garden, but you don’t have a lawn or much backyard space? Even if you only have a small area for plants or vegetables, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your Pinterest-worthy garden. Here’s how you can make the most your urban, space-saving, garden on a budget.

Seeds vs. Potted Plants

Did you know that buying plants and flowers from seeds is less expensive than buying a full-grown potted plant? When shopping for your urban garden, consider whether you want to splurge on the already grown plant or if you want to save some money and grow your garden and flowers from seeds. Your local garden shop, nursery, or home improvement store should have both seeds and potted plants for you to choose from.

Pro Tip: Save some green by using seeds from the vegetables and fruit you already eat!

Annuals or Perennials

Another thing to consider when choosing what plants to put in your urban garden is longevity. Plants and flowers that are considered annuals bloom once a year, and then their time is done. Perennials are plants that bloom once a year, but do not die. They re-bloom the following season and remain alive. In the long run, it is more cost effective to buy perennials that will last longer, however they may be more expensive than annuals. One way to look at this is to consider your garden as an investment.

Containers

Look around your home. Chances are you have old pots, glass bottles, or unique boxes and containers already there for you to use and plant your garden in. This will help you from having to pay for containers and pots at the store that are costly. Using what you already own is also eco-friendly as well as cost effective. Recyclable glass sauce jars are excellent for propagating plants you already own, or growing a new plant from the trimming of another plant.

Pro Tip: Leftover vegetable cans are great for growing herbs in the kitchen.

Now that you have chosen between seeds and potted plants, annuals or perennials, and found the perfect container – it’s time to talk about the placement and functionality of your urban garden.

Save Space

Save some room in your home and on your patio by planting vertically! Ferns are great for hanging from the ceiling or above, and any vining plant will grow well vertically in a hanging pot. Save room in style!

Pro Tip: Trendy macramé planters are not only beautiful, but extremely functional for a space saving option.

Another option to save room is to use a balcony railing. Use rail planter boxes to save room on the ground. This is also a great way to add additional privacy to your patio.

Lastly, put your potted stationary plants that are on the ground onto some rolling carts. Rolling carts for your plants are a great option to move your plants around for optimal sunlight, but also functionality. If you need to move a potted plant to have room, simply roll it to where it needs to go.

Privacy

If you’re looking for added privacy at your home, plant tall grasses and put them up against railings. This will add an extra level of privacy and create an outdoor oasis!

Pro Tip: Most grasses are perennials! Plus, if you use rail planter boxes – you’ll have more privacy.

You’re now ready to start a space saving garden on a budget! When you go out to shop for your plants and supplies, don’t forget to take your First Financial credit card with you, so you can earn rewards or cash back on all your purchases. Happy gardening.

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