Urban gardening is on the rise! Growing your own food is not just economical – it is delicious and can be entertaining and therapeutic. Many homeowners are eager to give it a try, but for those with homes in an HOA, growing a garden within the parameters of their own property may be easier said than done.

 
While most associations have restrictions when it comes to landscaping, the good news is that there are a variety of ways to successfully create edible landscaping without violating HOA rules.

Gardening Options in an HOA

If your association requires the majority of your outdoor space to be lawn, or has other restrictions for planting a large garden, all is not lost! Try these alternatives to growing your own food without any pushback from the HOA:

  • Flowerbeds. Many vegetables and herbs have lovely foliage and can blend in easily with the existing perennials and flowers in your landscape. Adding some tomatoes, peppers, carrots, or lettuce to your flowerbeds will add to their appeal while providing you with fresh, healthy produce.
  • Micro Gardens. Edible plants can be grown in even the smallest of spaces. Try using pallets to create a space-saving vertical garden, or get creative with jars, cans, or other small items to best utilize what space—or lack thereof—that you have.  
  • Container gardens are beautiful, functional, and economical. You can put them anywhere, and they require less water than traditional gardens. You can also move them easily as the seasons change. Herbs such as basil, lemongrass, parsley, and rosemary thrive easily in containers, and you can grow them near the house for easy access when cooking.

Five Benefits to Growing your Own Food

Still on the fence about whether edible landscaping is worth the effort? Here are just a few ways that taking up gardening can pay off:

  1. Freedom & Security. Having your own garden means you can grow and eat what you want, rather than making your decision based on what’s on sale, in season, or available in the produce isle.
  2. Big Savings. The expense of planting and caring for your own fruits and vegetables is minimal compared to purchasing organic foods at the market.
  3. Better Health. With an abundance of whole foods mere steps from your door, you’ll be much more likely to skip the processed foods in favor of much healthier options.
  4. Life Lessons. Gardening is a great way to teach children—and yourself— to work hard and reap the rewards of their efforts.
  5. Peace of Mind. Did you know that on average meal is shipped nearly 1,500 miles before you buy it? It’s wonderful to know exactly where your food comes from, and by growing it yourself you avoid ingesting pesticides and additives often found in produce at the store.

HOA agriculture enthusiasts may feel limited by association rules and restrictions, but with a little creativity, anyone can create and enjoy edible landscaping in just about any situation. Just be sure you check with your association’s Architectural Control Committee before endeavoring to start your own edible garden to find out which of the above options is suitable within your HOA.

 

Happy gardening!