Improving the appearance of flower beds can seem daunting, especially for renters who don’t want to sink money into a property they don’t own. But with some clever, low-maintenance approaches, you can upgrade ‌curb appeal without a major investment of time or money.



    Assess the Current Flower Beds

    Before making any changes, evaluate the current state of your rental’s flower beds. A careful inspection will reveal issues to address and shape your improvement plans.

    Make your notes, such as:

    • What’s growing? Are there dying plants, overgrown shrubs, and weeds?
    • What else is going on? Are there bare patches of soil and other issues?
    • What is the condition of the edging material around the beds? Old, cracked, and missing edging make any flower bed unkempt.
    • Is there plastic or landscape fabric visible? Weed-blocking material is useful but makes a bed look messy when exposed.
    • Is there any mulch?
    • Are there irrigation components — hoses, pipes, or sprinkler heads? If not, beds will need manual watering.
    • What is the size and shape of the beds? Odd shapes or extra-large beds often challenge renters on a budget.
    • How much sunlight do beds receive daily? Morning sun, afternoon shade, or all-day sun? The answer affects plant selection.

    Review your notes and prioritize what you need to do to shape up these beds. There’s no right answer about what to tackle first. Just start tackling.


    Refresh Beds with New Mulch

    The easiest way to tidy up existing beds is to add a fresh layer of mulch. Mulch blocks weeds and reduces the need for irrigation.

    Pull out overgrown plants, grass, and weeds first. Cut back overgrown shrubs and trees to open up the bed. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of shredded bark mulch or pine straw throughout the bed.

    Avoid gravel, pebbles, or rock mulch because these inert materials do nothing to improve the soil, and weeds can take root in the gaps between materials. You can also add a natural weed killer.

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    If the edging of the beds is damaged or missing, consider inexpensive options like rolled plastic edging that you can press into the ground around the bed’s perimeter.

    Introduce Low-Maintenance Plants

    While fresh mulch creates a clean look, introducing a few hardy plants delivers color without requiring persistent care and maintenance. Some renter-friendly ideas:

    • Ornamental grasses thrive with minimal care needed, adding texture and movement. Muhly grass is one variety that loves full sun and needs little irrigation once established.
    • Small, slow-growing dwarf shrub varieties won’t overgrow beds while offering permanence.
    • Perennials add seasonal color each winter, eliminating year-round maintenance. Daylilies, coneflowers, and peonies are options to consider.
    • Succulents like sedum and aloe vera add visual interest. Most tolerate excessive heat and dry conditions.

    Group a few plants together for greater visual impact rather than dotting a lone plant here and there. Include a mix of heights, textures, and colors.


    Use Containers Strategically

    Plant containers give renters the most landscaping flexibility. If you move, you can take attractive planters with you. 

    Fill containers with annuals each spring for an instant color boost. You can grow petunias, marigolds, zinnias, and begonias from seed. The one rule: keep containers watered because the soil in pots dries out faster.

    Place a few pots by the main entryway, along walkways, or in bare spots among existing ornamental beds. Combine flowering annuals with trailing plants or grasses. Use tall cylindrical or urn-shaped containers as vertical accents. Mix and match materials from Terra cotta to metal to add diversity.


    Try Creative Hardscaping

    If you want an ultra-low maintenance option, look at hardscaping. Place designer garden stones or pavers on the soil in pleasing patterns. Or lay pea gravel or crushed stone for a clean, finished look with no plants required.

    Incorporate objects like weathered pots, empty birdbaths, an old wheelbarrow, or a bench for visual interest. Set a few large rocks or boulders slightly buried in the ground. Add designer metal shapes and sculptures. These impromptu elements require no care.


    Seek Landlord Approval

    To avoid landlord issues, seek your landlord’s approval before undertaking significant changes to the existing beds. Typical rental agreements require tenants to obtain written permission before making permanent modifications. Review your lease agreement and clarify any requirements with your landlord before proceeding.

    Many landlords will be happy for you to improve curb appeal on their behalf. Specify your plans for refreshing the beds with mulch or new plants. Paying the bill for upgrades is also a nice gesture.

    With a little creativity, renters can enhance drab or overgrown flower beds without breaking the bank or committing to ongoing maintenance. Small enhancements go a long way toward improving first impressions.


    So, Is Improving Rental Flower Beds Worth It?

    Making minor upgrades to tired, overgrown flower beds is usually worth the nominal investment for renters. A fresh layer of mulch and a few potted plants or inexpensive shrubs can transform the look of the property’s exterior at little cost.

    Upgrades involve a one-time investment of time, effort, and money on the renter’s part.

    Improving the aesthetic can make living on the property more enjoyable. Curb-appeal projects can also yield benefits when it comes time to move out. 

    Take pictures of your new flower beds to document the changes. A visibly cared-for rental may suffer less wear and tear deductions from the security deposit. Especially if negotiated up-front, upgrades could even lead to a partial refund of materials costs by the landlord.

    There are some risks, however. You should only undertake major changes with the landlord’s consent, or you may face fees to reverse alterations or restore the property when moving out. Realize that your upgrades belong to your landlord. As long as you avoid permanent modifications, refreshing rental flower beds is certainly worth the effort.


    FAQs About Improving Rental Flower Beds

    Should I avoid planting in rental flower beds?

    As a renter, you don’t have to avoid adding plants to flower beds. Quick-growing annual flowers, vegetables, or herbs in pots are low commitment. However, avoid permanent plants like trees or large shrubs that require pruning.


    What kind of mulch is best for flower beds?

    Shredded bark, pine straw, and other organic mulches resist compaction and improve soil as they decompose. Inorganic mulches like pebbles don’t break down but provide a tidy appearance.


    How much mulch should I apply to flower beds?

    When adding new mulch to flower beds, putting in 2 to 3 inches is ideal. Too little mulch allows weeds. Too much can prevent water and air from reaching plant roots.


    Should I mix compost into the soil before mulching?

    If you add compost to a flower bed, mix it into the soil before putting mulch on top. You only need 1 to 2 inches of compost to improve drainage, provide nutrients, and help plants establish better than mulch alone. You can add used coffee grounds to your compost.


    How can I upgrade my flower beds without planting?

    You can upgrade flower beds without adding new plants. How? Try hardscaping materials like gravel, stones, and pavers. You can also incorporate decorative objects like sculpture, found items, and garden art.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Jonathon Jachura

    Jonathon Jachura

    Contributor

    Jonathon Jachura is a two-time homeowner with hands-on experience with HVAC, gutters, plumbing, lawn care, pest control, and other aspects of owning a home. He is passionate about home maintenance and finding the best services. His main goal is to educate others with crisp, concise descriptions that any homeowner can use. Jon uses his strong technical background to create engaging, easy-to-read, and informative guides. He does most of his home and lawn projects himself but hires professional companies for the “big things.” He knows what goes into finding the best service providers and contractors. Jon studied mechanical engineering at Purdue University in Indiana and worked in the HVAC industry for 12 years. Between his various home improvement projects, he enjoys the outdoors, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with his family.

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    photo of Sabrina Lopez

    Sabrina Lopez

    Editor

    Sabrina Lopez is a senior editor for Today’s Homeowner with over 7 years of writing and editing experience in digital media. She has reviewed content across categories that matter to homeowners, including HVAC services, home renovations, lawn and garden care, products for the home, and insurance services. When she’s not reviewing articles to make sure they are helpful, accessible, and engaging for homeowners like herself, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her family and their two parrots.

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