Most avid flower or vegetable gardeners dream of large estate-like properties where they can dig and plant to their hearts’ desire, completely unfettered by the limitations of space. Unfortunately, most of us will never achieve that dream, so how do we make the most out of what we have?
As an overriding principle, the best idea you’ll ever get for all small gardens is simply this: think vertical! Small gardens require gardeners to break the mold of thinking only of gardening “down” on a large horizontal expanse of earth, and start thinking of gardening “up” into the air and off the ground.
As an example, if you have a fenced yard, adding 4 x 8 trellis panels to the fencing allows you to plant attractive climbing flowering vines. Trellis towers and arbors are another way to garden in the air instead of in the ground. Deck boxes can be mounted on fence sections for added beauty. Hanging pots are another solution.
Level gardening is yet another solution for small gardens. If you have a small ground space available, you can use outdoor lumber to create raised beds, increasing the overall space with which you have to work.
Perimeter gardening is another idea. All gardeners have a touch of the farmer in them and farmers think in terms of plots with horizontal rows of plantings grouped together. But how about single lines of plantings following the perimeter of your property? Red leaf lettuce following the lines of your outdoor area serves double duty, as it is not only edible, it is also attractive.
Most gardeners think of small gardens only in terms of their limitations and disadvantages; but there are actually some benefits. For one thing, it’s much easier to manage than large, expansive, ground level plots. Fewer tools needed and less walking required are both significant benefits. You’ll also need far less fertilizer and weed control, as well as easier pest control.
The major disadvantage is water. All these space-saving approaches will require watering what you plant more frequently during dry spells. This is particularly true for container gardening. For ground plantings, mulching to retain moisture will be a big help. A good solution for container gardening is to use the newer water retentive soil mixtures. Although they can be somewhat expensive, they contain elements that attract and retain water, releasing moisture gradually over time. You can also use watering globes, which are attractive glass bulbs filled with water that you insert into your container. Water is released as the soil dries out.
Small spaces are also ideally suited for two additional garden enhancements: light and sound. Solar lighting is now available in a variety of small, attractive designs that can be strategically placed around your outdoor garden space. In addition, consider using solar post lights on your fencing and arbors.
Finally, nothing is as soothing as the gentle sound of flowing water. Outdoor water fountains have become so popular that there are now many styles available for small spaces; even some that fit onto walls and in corners.
Decor & Renovating 
Most avid flower or vegetable gardeners dream of large estate-like properties where they can dig and plant to their hearts’ desire, completely unfettered by the limitations of space. Unfortunately, most of us will never achieve that dream, so how do we make the most out of what we have?
