Grow a Garden in Small Spaces: Raised Beds for Patios, Paths, and Side Yards
Creating a garden doesn’t require a big backyard—just a little creativity and the right setup. Whether you live in a coastal cottage or a subdivision with neighbors on both sides, a small-space garden can bring calm, beauty, and fresh herbs and vegetables right to your doorstep. In this post, I’m sharing how to build a raised garden bed on a cement patio or side yard, plus a few essentials that make it easy to start growing in even the smallest outdoor space.
There’s something deeply grounding about planting something and watching it grow—even more so when it happens in a space you wouldn’t think about using for a garden spot. Small-space gardening offers a chance to slow down, connect with the rhythm of nature, and bring beauty into overlooked spaces. Whether you’re working with a patch of concrete or a narrow side yard, creating a raised bed is exciting and rewarding—it’s a mindful practice rooted in intention.
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A Few Quiet Benefits of Small-Space Gardening
Even the smallest-garden can create a sense of peace and purpose. Tending to plants invites stillness into your day, encourages time outdoors, and offers a hands on way to care for your space—and your well-being. It’s a gentle reminder that something meaningful can grow in even the most limited places.
How to Build a Raised Garden Bed on Cement
Here’s a simple way to start your own small-space garden, whether it’s along the of your home, on a patio, or tucked into a quiet corner of your yard.
1. Choose Your Location
Look for a spot that gets at least 4-6 hours of sunlight. Even partial sun can support herbs, leafy greens, and flowers.
2. Lay Down a Liner
To protect your cement surface and reduce weeds, I recommend laying a heavy-duty garden liner like this one before filling your raised bed with soil and help with drainage. Cut it to fit the space and secure the edges.
3. Set up Your Raised Bed Frame
You can use a pre-made raised bed like this galvanized option, a compact raised garden solution or build your own with cedar boards. (That is what I used in our Raised Bed). Make sure it’s deep enough for root growth (at least 12-15 inches).
4. Fill with Quality Soil
Add a mix of raised bed soil and compost for nutrients. Pat the soil down lightly and water it before planting.
5. Start Planting
Choose the plants you would like to grow, herbs, Zucchini, tomatoes, etc. Keep it simple and enjoyable and what you like to eat.
Starting a small garden doesn’t require perfection—just a little space, a bit of care and the intention to grow something meaningful. Whether you’re planting herbs for your kitchen or simply creating a quiet corner of green, this small act of tending the earth can become a grounding part of your day.
“This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.”