40 Dreamy Small Garden Ideas to Try on a Budget
Even in very small spaces, a little creativity goes a long way.
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Nurturing a garden can make us feel happy, calm and prideful. Not to mention, the presence of lush greenery and flowers can instantly spruce up your outdoor space. Depending on your small space, you may choose easy-to-grow vegetables, fruits and herbs that can be harvested at peak season, or opt for tropical plants, evergreen shrubs or perennial flowers that require even less maintenance. Regardless, we've rounded up charming small garden ideas that run the gamut — from building raised garden beds and unique vertical gardens to decorating with potted plants.
Whether it's landscaping in the front yard, a vegetable garden in the back or flower pots on a stylish patio, we've got a budget-friendly hack for every area of your home — even if you're a beginner gardener. Embrace a modern look on the porch by turning vinyl gutters into planters, hang fresh herbs from a wooden palette or get organized with hand-crafted plant markers. If you want to flex your DIY skills, try building a small fish pond, bubble fountain or arched trellis covered in trailing plants.
If you're building a brand-new garden to revamp your current setup, don't forget to consider plants you'd like to grow and each crop's sunlight, soil and water requirements. Now, start scrolling these outdoor photos to find an idea that's compatible with your small space.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
Monique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand's home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, "What's in My Cart."
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