Renting doesn't mean you can't enjoy a beautiful garden. With some planning, you can create a colorful outdoor space even if you don't own your home.
Researching gardening strategies for rentals helps you make the most of your backyard. There are numerous creative ideas to enhance your space, especially through the right flower choices.
From annuals that last just a season to easy-to-move container gardens, here are the best flowers to plant if you're renting.
10 Flowers for Renters
With thoughtful selections, renters can cultivate a stunning garden that complies with landlord rules while enjoying vibrant blooms.
1. Zinnias
Zinnias are a fantastic choice for vibrant blooms from late spring to summer. These annuals are perfect for a rental garden since they thrive in temporary locations.
'As a renter, I use various annuals to add pops of color throughout my garden,' says Annette Hird, an urban gardening expert. 'Being annuals, they can grow anywhere and don't need a permanent spot,' she explains.
Start zinnia seeds indoors in early spring to protect them from frost. They prefer full sun and can flourish in US hardiness zones 2 to 11.
'Zinnias do well in sunny spots and can tolerate drought once established,' advises Jana McDaniel, a gardening expert. 'Regular deadheading can extend their blooming period,' she adds.
If space is tight, consider using grow bags for indoor zinnias, such as this zinnia grow kit from Nature Hills.
Annette Hird holds an Associate Diploma in Horticulture and specializes in urban gardening. She has managed and improved numerous gardens while enjoying the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamental plants.
Jana is a seasoned gardening expert and the founder of First Saturday Lime, focusing on eco-friendly pest control. Her gardening experience spans a lifetime.
2. Cosmos
Cosmos are another delightful annual for rental gardens, known for their bright, cheerful flowers. Growing cosmos can add beauty throughout your time in the rental.
For indoor sowing, aim to plant cosmos seeds in March and April to avoid late frosts. They thrive in US hardiness zones 7 to 11.
'Seedlings need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight and should have evenly moist soil until established,' says Jana. 'After that, let the soil dry slightly between waterings,' she suggests.
Find cosmos seeds online, like these mixed cosmos seeds from Amazon.
3. Lavender
If you're looking to create a wildlife-friendly garden, lavender is a perfect choice. While it's a perennial returning each year, it's excellent for pots, allowing flexibility in your garden.
'Lavender thrives in full sun with well-draining soil,' advises Jana. 'Make sure to prune it after blooming for healthy regrowth,' she adds.
It grows well in US hardiness zones 5 to 10, but be careful with overwatering, as it can lead to discoloration.
Purchase lavender plants online, such as this lavender from Nature Hills.
4. Coneflowers
The stunning coneflower, or echinacea, is a great container flower that attracts pollinators. These perennials will return each year, adding height to your arrangements.
With various coneflower types blooming in summer, they are perfect for renters unable to plant permanently in the ground.
'Choose pots with drainage holes and well-draining soil for the best results,' Jana recommends.
After blooming, cut back the plants to encourage new growth for the next season.
Coneflowers come in different colors, such as this yellow variety from Nature Hills and this purple option from Nature Hills.
5. Marigolds
Marigolds are a colorful addition to kitchen gardens, serving as natural pest repellents. These annuals can be planted exactly where needed for a single season.
It's best to sow marigold seeds outdoors after frost danger has passed, with optimal growth in US hardiness zones 2 to 11.
They can also be grown in pots for flexibility while decorating hanging baskets.
For limited outdoor space, consider this marigold grow kit from Nature Hills.
6. Anemones
For those considering a cut flower garden, planting anemone bulbs can provide delicate blooms. These perennials thrive in containers, allowing repositioning as needed.
They do well in US hardiness zones 3 to 10 and can thrive in shaded areas, making them one of the best flowers for shaded gardens.
'Keep their soil moist but not oversaturated, and use mulch to retain moisture,' suggests Jana.
Growing anemones in pots allows you to shelter them once the flowering season is over. Check out options like this snowdrop anemone from Nature Hills.
7. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a beloved summer staple, offering a burst of color for one season. These annuals thrive in sunny locations.
Plant sunflower seeds indoors in early spring or directly outdoors after the last frost, thriving in US hardiness zones 2 to 11.
With towering heights reaching over 10 feet, sunflowers can transform your rental into a vibrant summer haven. Remember to harvest seeds for future planting or snacking.
Shop for sunflower seeds online, like these sunflower seeds from Amazon.
8. Geraniums
To create stunning thriller, spiller, filler containers, consider adding geraniums. These perennials will return each year, making them ideal for renters looking to enhance their outdoor aesthetics.
'Choose a container with good drainage and a suitable potting mix, ensuring they receive at least six hours of sunlight,' advises Jana.
With many hardy varieties, geraniums thrive in US hardiness zones 3 to 9. Keep them blooming by providing sunlight and pruning during winter.
Shop for geraniums online, like this Azure Rush Geranium from Nature Hills.
9. Dianthus
Dianthus, known for its clusters of charming blooms, is perfect for hanging baskets. This perennial ensures your containers will be filled with color in the next season.
Dianthus thrives in US hardiness zones 3 to zone 9, flourishing in sunny spots while tolerating brief dry spells. 'Water thoroughly and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again,' Jana suggests.
To maintain vibrant blooms, deadhead dianthus when their flowers fade in mid-fall for a rewarding display next spring.
Dianthus is available in various colors, including this Star Starburst Dianthus from Nature Hills.
10. Dahlias
Depending on your gardening zone, dahlias can act as annuals or perennials. In zones 8 and above, they may return next summer, while colder areas will enjoy them for one season.
These flowers add summer color and can be planted in larger pots for easy relocation.
'I grow dwarf dahlias in pots that create a stunning display during warmer months,' Annette shares. 'Being dwarf varieties, they don't require staking, making them ideal for containers,' she explains.
Dahlias come in various types, ensuring there's a perfect option to brighten your rental yard.
Grow dahlias from seed using these rainbow dahlia seeds from Amazon.
Moving with Container Plants
When it's time to move, ensure your container plants are transported safely. Consider repotting them into temporary nursery pots to avoid damage during transit.
Secure plants in your vehicle using bubble wrap or cardboard boxes. While they shouldn't experience too much stress, replant them and provide care as soon as you arrive at your new home.
Renters can enjoy gardening without limitations. Whether you choose annuals or create beautiful containers, your rental can be filled with flourishing flowers.
For budget-friendly gardening inspiration, explore our collection of backyard ideas.
