Spring Gardening Mistakes That Could Upset Your Landlord

Spring is here, and if you’re a plant lover, that can only mean one thing, it’s gardening season. There’s nothing like the joy of watching your hydrangeas bloom, or your tomatoes thrive. If you’re renting, your enthusiasm for greenery could land you in conflict with your landlord.

Simple mistakes like digging up the lawn with permission can turn your garden dreams into a nightmare due to a lease violation. And let’s be honest, no one wants to lose their security deposit over a few tulips. In light of this, read along as we’ll cover common spring gardening mistakes renters make and how to avoid them.

What is Responsible Gardening?

Changing the Landscape Structure

Responsible gardening isn’t only about keeping plants alive, it’s also about you making thoughtful choices that benefit both your space and the environment. When changing your landscape structure, digging up lawns, adding flower beds, or installing new hardscapes might be tempting. Before going into all of that, you need to take a step back and consider sustainability.

Will they affect drainage or harm local wildlife? As a renter, you should check in with your landlord first. After all, a garden should enhance a space, not create long-term damage or tension. You should check this green living guide for more ideas on reducing waste and pollution in your rental.

Consider eco-friendly alternatives in place of significant changes. Yards can be transformed with native species, container plants, or raised garden beds without disrupting the ecosystem or violating your lease agreement. At the end of the day, you must plan wisely before starting on your home gardening project.

Using Landlord-Approved Chemicals

It is all well and good to enjoy gardening until the dead patches of grass or unsightly stains on the walkway attract the attention of your landlord. At this point, you realize that not all gardening products are friendly to rentals. As a renter, you will have to balance the need for your plants to look good with complying with your landlord.

One of the most disastrous things you will do is use some toxic substance that would ruin the lawn, cause stains on the patio, or even allow the chemicals to seep into shared water systems. While this industrial-strength weed killer you picked up may perform wonders, it also could be something that breaks lease policies or, worse, the laws about the environment in your area. BMG property management suggests keeping windows closed when using landlord-approved chemicals.

The best way to settle this is to stick to landlord-approved, eco-friendly options. Look for organic fertilizers, natural pest repellents, and biodegradable weed killers. When in doubt, you should check your lease or ask your landlord what’s allowed.

Balancing Personal Gardening Desires with Lease Agreements

Setting Landlords Expectations

As much as you want your gardens to be colorful and vibrant, so does your landlord want all things intact on their property. Finding that little common ground on the issue is where it becomes difficult. Check your lease before digging the yard or installing the raised beds. Some landlords may be sticklers for landscaping, while others won’t mind small updates as long as they’re kept up nicely.

Set up your expectations early. Ask permission from your landlord before you start a container garden or plant some flowers. Focus on how your plans will enhance instead of degrade the property. You might also suggest putting anything back the way it was before leaving. A little give-and-take is worth a great deal. If done right, getting your dream garden can happen without straining relations with your landlord.

Potential Damage to Landscape

It’s easy for many renters to overlook how gardening choices can damage the property. If you’re digging up the lawn for a flower bed, that’s landscaping alteration. If you planted fast-growing vines, they might damage fences or walls. Even something as simple as overwatering can lead to mold issues or slippery walkways.

The important thing is finding a balance. Use raised garden beds or potted plants instead of digging into the ground. Choose non-invasive plants that won’t spread beyond your space. Always check with your landlord before making major changes. After all, gardening should give you joy and not take away security deposits.

Should Tenants Restore the Garden Upon Moving Out?

As a renter, you’ve spent months or even years turning your rental’s outdoor space into a mini paradise. Now that it’s time to move, that leaves one big question on your mind: Do I have to restore the garden to its original state? In most cases, yes.

Unless your landlord loves what you’ve done with the space and wants to keep it, your lease likely requires you to return the space as you found it. This means removing garden beds, replanting grass, and undoing major landscaping changes. Even potted plants that left stains or damage might need some cleanup.

The best way to avoid last-minute stress is to plan ahead before you move out. Check your lease and talk with your landlord. Some may appreciate your efforts and let things stay. Others might expect a full reset. Either way, leaving the garden in good shape ensures a smooth move and keeps your security deposit safe.

Conclusion

Gardening in a rental comes with its fair share of challenges, but it doesn’t have to be a big problem between you and your landlord. With a little planning, open communication, and smart choices, you can create a beautiful green space while remaining on good terms with your landlords. Remember your landlord-approved gardening methods, avoid major landscape changes without permission, and always consider how your choices might impact the property. At the end of the day, a well-maintained garden should make you happy. So, plant wisely, and enjoy the season, while keeping your security deposit intact.