Is condo gardening a contradiction in terms?

New Yorkers have done it for generations—carving out small spaces in their concrete jungles for a bit of nature. In the Big Apple, apartment dwellers with green thumbs have used window boxes and turned corners of courtyards and patches of rooftops into welcome green space.

Condo owners can also add natural beauty around their living spaces. By carefully following any rules in their condominium bylaws, and by seeking approval from the condominium board, the beautification can be a welcome addition to the entire property.

Condo gardening can be the beautification of the small patch of outdoor real estate most condo owners call their balcony or patio, and it can be beautification of the grounds outside the building. Typically, larger condo complexes are professionally managed and often have a landscaper in house and/or under contract to care for the lawns, flowers and other plantings around the property. Smaller condo buildings also often have a lawn or landscaping service to do quick weekly cuts of the lawn, but due to the size and budget of the association, a personal touch from one or more condo owners can really make for some great curb appeal. These can include planting colorful annuals in front and along walkways to the doors, or hanging baskets with colorful annuals alongside the entrances. Consider starting annuals from seeds to be especially economical.

Balcony or patio condo gardening can be done with as little as a few flower pots, baskets and/or boxes and some creativity. It’s commonly known as container gardening and micro gardening.

First, be sure nothing can fall. Then, select what you’d like to grow. You’re not likely to be able to harvest cabbages, carrots or tomatoes from container plants, but you certainly can cultivate a variety of herbs for seasoning foods and you can also grow annuals from seeds or store-bought plants. Either method will be sure to add major color to your balcony, patio or back porch.

Does your location favor the things you want to grow? Hours of sunlight and temperature vary considerably from region to region and from one side of a building to another.

Select appropriate containers for the intended plants. They should look good on your property as well as be good for the plants. Make sure you understand each plant’s requirement for type of soil, water, fertilizer and hours of sunlight.

Here are some resources you can use for successful condo gardening. And remember, always be sure to check with your condo association bylaws before beginning any project, even on your own balcony, back porch or patio.


Container gardening in condos

Small space gardening

Condominium gardening