Inspired by Andy Tomolonis’ “Organic Hobby Farming”
Want to grow your own food but stuck in a rental apartment or duplex? You don’t need a backyard to enjoy the benefits of organic gardening. Whether you have a small patio, a balcony, or just a sunny window, these renter-friendly gardening hacks will help you grow fresh, healthy produce—without breaking your lease.
Based on Andy Tomolonis’ must-read guide, Organic Hobby Farming, this blog is your step-by-step resource for growing big in small spaces using sustainable, earth-friendly methods.
1. Use Portable Containers for Maximum Flexibility
Level: Beginner
If digging isn’t allowed, container gardening is your best friend. You can grow just about anything in the right-sized pot.
Top ideas:
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Fabric grow bags
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Upcycled food-grade buckets
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Raised beds with wheels
Andy shares soil-building recipes using compost, peat, and perlite—ideal for small containers.
2. Compost Like a Pro (Even Without a Yard)
Level: Beginner–Intermediate
Composting can be clean, compact, and rental-friendly. Try:
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Worm bins under the sink
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Bokashi fermentation buckets
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Patio compost tumblers
A healthy compost system creates rich soil for your garden—while cutting your kitchen waste in half.
Learn which compost method fits your space in Organic Hobby Farming.
3. Build No-Dig, Removable Raised Beds
Level: Intermediate
Raised beds allow total control over soil quality—and if built with lightweight materials, they’re easy to disassemble when you move.
Use:
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Cedar planks + brackets
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Stackable cinder blocks
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Metal troughs with landscape fabric
Andy provides plans, dimensions, and layering methods that work in rental spaces.
4. Grow Organic Herbs Indoors All Year
Level: Beginner
Kitchen herbs love sunny windows—and they grow fast! Start with:
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Basil, parsley, thyme, oregano
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Recycled glass jars or clay pots
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Optional LED grow light for cloudy months
Andy offers tips for organic indoor gardening, pest prevention, and rotating pots seasonally.
5. Go Minimal with Tools & Gear
Level: All
You don’t need a tool shed! Renters can garden with:
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Hand trowel + pruners
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Watering can
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Collapsible cart or basket
Use only what fits your space and style. Andy highlights sustainable, durable tools that last for years.
6. Preserve What You Grow
Level: Intermediate
Even small harvests can stretch long with simple preservation:
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Freeze chopped herbs in olive oil
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Dehydrate basil, mint, or fruit
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Can tomatoes or pickles in small batches
Andy explains low-cost preservation tools and how to store food safely in tight spaces.
7. Turn Your Garden into a Micro-Farm
Level: Intermediate
Yes, even renters can make money from their garden! Try:
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Selling herb bundles to neighbors
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Growing microgreens for local cafes
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Creating soap or tea blends from your harvest
Just confirm your lease terms before selling anything commercially.
Organic Hobby Farming offers ethical, organic strategies for turning your passion into a part-time income.
Organic Hobby Farming
By Andy Tomolonis | Fox Chapel Publishing
Whether you rent or own, this book is packed with organic gardening know-how for small spaces.
-Soil, compost, raised beds & indoor tips
-Easy to follow, with photos and plans
-Ideas for turning your hobby into a business
🔗 Order now on FoxChapelPublishing.com
Bonus Tips for Renters
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Get landlord approval before installing anything permanent
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Document your garden with photos (it might improve curb appeal!)
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Use wheeled or lightweight containers for easy mobility
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Team up with neighbors to share tools or compost
Let’s Grow Together
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