We’re lucky enough to have a large patio in our new apartment. While I love grilling and lounging in the sun with a good book as much as the next person, I must confess the biggest reason our patio excites me: GARDENING! The patio of our last apartment was always too windy for anything to prosper, but I’m hopeful that the interesting angles of our new patio will provide protection from the wind and offer both sun and shade.
I’ve so missed having my own herbs right outside to use while cooking (seriously, I grit my teeth every time I have to buy basil at the store, which is weekly). And I love the thought of trying to grow greens and vegetables in containers, too – maybe as practice for the “real” garden we might have someday. Here are some images from my urban patio garden inspiration folder that have me eager to dig in (winkwink) and get started:
Even the tiniest spaces can accommodate container gardens, depending on your conditions. I mean, if this apartment can do it…
Herbs galore! Going vertical is so smart.
There’s a lot going on here, but not a lot of food. However, the concept of stacking plants to line a wall is perfect for any small outdoor space.
Container gardening isn’t just for herbs. These would be great on a patio.
Mix in some herbs and vegetables with these decorative plants – my kind of gorgeous!
Please excuse me while I go graze on greens for dinner.
Lounging in the greenery.
I saved the best for last. Does it get any cooler than a vertical herb garden for an urban space? I think not!
I’d love to hear your stories and tips about patio gardening. What are your do’s and don’ts? Here’s a helpful guide for those of you also considering taking the patio garden plunge: Tips on starting a patio garden from Epicurious.
Living in a Chicago condo with just a small back deck space means limited space for gardening, but we’ve made it our own with a variety of potted plants. Last year we ventured into gardening with an herb garden, planting a bunch basil, oregano, dill, and cilantro in assorted pots that I had accumulated over the years. It worked out great! I was amazed with how well these plants grew in some small pots, and it was so nice having access to fresh herbs for cooking. Great way to save money since the seeds were so cheap, and we already had the pots. We even continued into the winter by bringing the pots inside and putting them on our windowsill – they grew surprisingly well in the winter season. Last weekend we replanted some more seeds to start off inside, with hopes of moving back outside at some point in a month or so when the weather is more consistently warm. I definitely recommend trying some herbs!
.-= Eileen’s most recent blog post: a day in the life of a research engineer =-.
Twitter: @sillylittle
We have a lovely outdoor space for the first time. I’m considering container gardening, but I’m useless when it comes to growing things. I hope you continue to share your tips and progress.
.-= Linda’s most recent blog post: Library Loot =-.
Twitter: @beingmichelle
We have a tiny little balcony as well and I never even thought about all these possibilities.
.-= michelle @ blissful musings’s most recent blog post: 6 Month Anniversary (sorta) =-.
Twitter: @nataliecay
I have a balcony right off our kitchen and use a window box for cilantro, chives, rosemary, and oregano and then a large pot for basil, thyme, and parsley. There is nothing more gratifiying than stepping out onto your balcony for fresh herbs while you’re cooking.
My only helpful hint which you may know already is that if you plant mint, be sure to do so in its own, separate pot. I made this mistake last year and it took over the entire planter. Not cool.
Good luck! Loving hearing about your adventures in moving!
.-= Natalie’s most recent blog post: Loss on Greenville Avenue =-.