adminGuide to Create a Small Garden for your Home
By Harris Garden Center – Orlando, FL
Big impact doesn’t require a big yard. Whether you have a patio, balcony, or small backyard, you can turn any space into a lush, inviting garden with the right approach. At Harris Garden Center, we love helping Orlando locals bring their garden dreams to life—no matter the size of their space.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a small garden that’s beautiful, practical, and uniquely yours.
1. Pick the Perfect Spot
Start by choosing a location that gets the right amount of sunlight. Most Florida-friendly flowers and herbs thrive in full to partial sun, so aim for an area that gets 4–6 hours of sunlight daily.
Local Tip: East-facing spaces are great for morning sun and less harsh heat.
2. Decide on a Garden Style (We Can Help!)
Think about how you want your space to feel. A few popular small garden ideas include:
Herb Garden – Great for balconies or kitchen-adjacent patios
Pollinator Garden – Filled with butterfly- and bee-friendly plants
Tropical Oasis – Use bold foliage and vibrant blooms like crotons and hibiscus
Container Garden – Perfect for renters or paved spaces
We can help you pick the right plants and containers to fit your style.
3. Choose the Right Plants for Florida
Select low-maintenance, heat-tolerant plants that can thrive in Orlando’s warm, humid climate. Some top picks for small gardens include:
Herbs: Basil, rosemary, mint, and oregano
Flowers: Pentas, marigolds, blue daze, and lantana
Tropicals: Snake plant, bird of paradise, or dwarf croton
Pro Tip: Mix textures and heights for a layered, lush look.
4. Use Vertical Space
When floor space is limited, go up! Hanging baskets, wall planters, and trellises help you make the most of your area without overcrowding.
Try mounting herb planters to a sunny fence or using a tiered shelf for colorful pots.
5. Keep It Low-Maintenance
Choose self-watering containers, add mulch to retain soil moisture, and use slow-release fertilizer to reduce upkeep. Florida’s summer rain can be a blessing—but drainage is still key!
Let us help you select the right soil and watering tools that match your garden’s needs.
6. Make It Personal
Add a small bench, garden gnome, or string lights to reflect your personality. Your garden should be a space where you relax, recharge, and enjoy the beauty you’ve created.
Rooted in Community, Grown with Care at Harris Garden Center
“At our local garden shop, we believe gardening is more than planting—it’s about growing connections. Whether you’re a weekend plant parent or a seasoned landscaper, you’ll find handpicked greenery, thoughtful advice, and a space where neighbors gather, ideas bloom, and every leaf tells a story.”
– Farrah J.
