You can have a thriving garden in a small space.
Think you need acres of land and a million raised beds to grow a thriving garden? Think again.
Whether you’re working with a balcony, patio, or just a patch of sunny windowsill, a productive garden is absolutely possible in a small space. In fact, some of the most vibrant gardens I’ve seen have been found in pots on patios.
In a world that often equates “more” with “better,” creating a small garden is a quiet, intentional act. One that invites care and creativity.
When I moved into my Seattle home five years ago the yard left a lot to be desired.
Why Small Gardens Work (Really Well)
Small gardens can be:
Easier to maintain (less weeding, watering, and pruning)
Incredibly productive when designed thoughtfully
More sustainable, using fewer resources and encouraging mindful consumption
Perfect for beginners who want to build confidence and learn about plants before scaling up
With the right plants and a bit of planning, you can grow food, herbs, flowers—and even create a little sanctuary—in far less space than you might think.
5 Tips for Gardening in Tight Quarters
1. Pick the right plants
My yard it quite compact, and we live on a hill, so containers are my biggest ally when it comes to productive gardening. My primary considerations when picking plants are:
Will they do well in containers. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, mint, and basil.
Do they play nicely with others — other plants that is. Companion planting is central to my small-space strategy. For example planting calendula with my leafy greens and beets.
Will they go the distance — meaning, can I use them year over year, or for more than one purpose. My yard is filled with medicinal plants intermixed with veggies. Many medicinal plants are perennial and also help maintain soil health, this makes it easier for my annuals (i.e., vegetables) to succeed. And, I get the added benefit of being able to use the medicinals for remedy making.
2. Think Vertical
If you’re low on ground space, go up! Trellises, hanging planters, wall-mounted pots, and vertical garden kits are ideal for adding layers of greenery without sacrificing square footage.
3. Use Every Nook
Look for sunlight and opportunity:
A windowsill with morning light
A sunny corner of the front steps
A porch railing that could host a row of herb pots
Don’t be afraid to repurpose or get creative. Old crates, baskets, or ceramic bowls can all become homes for plants.
4. Focus on Soil Health
In containers, the soil dries out faster and nutrients deplete more quickly. Don’t be afraid — in fact I highly encourage, you to — plant things closer together. In small spaces it’s imperative to use every inch, but it also has the added benefit of keeping the soil more moist and pest free. The plants act as a natural barrier, reducing evaporation of moisture from the surface area of the soil.
Healthy soil = healthy plants, especially in tight quarters.
5. Build a Ritual of Tending
Small gardens lend themselves beautifully to ritual. Watering in the morning. Harvesting fresh herbs for dinner. Noticing what’s blooming, and what’s fading.
It becomes more than a task—it becomes a grounding, joyful practice.
Small Gardens, Big Impact
Your little garden might not feed your whole household—but it can feed your soul.
A few pots of herbs can remind you of your connection to the earth. A patch of calendula can offer both beauty and medicine. A tomato plant grown in a pot can teach patience and care.
A thriving garden doesn’t require a big yard—just a little space, some sun, and your attention.
Ready to Start Your Own Small Garden?
If you’re in the Seattle area, book a Grounded Guidance Garden Coaching Session to get personalized guidance for creating a restorative garden—no matter how small your space is.
I also offer virtual consults. Remote garden mentoring sessions for those with limited space, focused questions, or who live outside our service zone.