Apartment GardeningGrowing IndoorsHomesteadingMicro-homesteading

20 Ways to Get Started with Apartment Homesteading

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I used to think that in order to practice homesteading or even micro-homesteading, you needed thousands of hectares or at least a lot of space.

I thought to start a garden, you'd need a big backyard, plenty of room for raising chickens, and all that.

But I was wrong.

The more I learned about homesteading, the more I realized it doesn’t matter where you live—whether it's an apartment, the middle of the city, or surrounded by houses—you can homestead!

Who knew a few plants on your balcony could make you a homesteader?

It’s honestly amazing how people, especially homesteaders, bring old-school practices into modern life, no matter where they are.

So, if you're just starting out, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. Below are 20 ways to get started with homesteading, even if you live in an apartment.

1. Grow Herbs Indoors

Herbs are a great choice when you don’t have much space to work with. You can grow them in small containers, raised beds, or even on a sunny windowsill.

Since they don’t need a lot of room, they are ideal for apartment life.

Some common ones, like basil, thyme, and chives, are easy to grow and can be used in many recipes, which makes them a practical option.

They’re also a good starting point if you’re new to gardening because they’re low-maintenance and grow quickly.

2. Start a Balcony Vegetable Garden

Even if you don’t have a backyard, your balcony can still be a place to grow vegetables.

Limited space won’t stop you from trying to get started (simple containers will work just fine).

You can use things like old pots, crates, or even repurpose large plastic containers. Vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, and peppers are perfect for container gardening.

They all enjoy sunlight, so if your balcony gets a good amount of sun throughout the day, these plants will thrive.

For tomatoes, consider using hanging baskets or vertical planters to save space. Just make sure to check our guide on the right container size for tomatoes to ensure they have enough room to grow properly.

3. Use Vertical Gardening

Vertical gardening is another smart way to make the most of your limited space.

Instead of planting across the ground, you use structures like trellises, hanging pots, or shelves to grow your plants upward.

This works especially well for climbing plants like tomatoes, peas, or cucumbers, but you can also grow smaller plants, like herbs, this way.

For example, you can hang small herb planters on a sunny wall or stack them on a vertical stand.

It’s a practical strategy to fit more plants into a small area while also keeping them within easy reach.

4. Experiment With Hydroponics

Hydroponics is a bit different from traditional gardening, but it’s becoming more popular because it can be done indoors, is less messy, and often leads to faster plant growth.

For beginners, there are simple DIY hydroponic setups that are easy to build and budget-friendly.

One option is the Kratky method, which uses containers, water, and nutrients to grow plants like lettuce and herbs without any pumps.

You can make this setup using basic materials like plastic containers, tubing, and a net pot.

If you want something a little more advanced, there are also starter kits like the “AeroGarden,” which is a compact, self-watering system that comes with pre-seeded pods and is good for growing herbs indoors.

You can find many affordable kits online or at garden stores.

5. Compost Indoors

Okay, this one might seem a little out there at first ‘cause composting is something that usually happens in a big backyard, but you can totally do it in an apartment.

You just need the right setup.

You can start a small compost bin right in your kitchen or on your balcony. It’s a simple way to recycle food scraps like fruit peels, coffee grounds, and vegetable trimmings, turning them into nutrient-rich compost for your plants.

Not only does it help your plants grow stronger, but it also reduces waste by keeping organic material out of the landfill.

The best part is, it doesn’t take up much space, which makes it a great option for apartment living.

6. Preserve Food at Home

Avoiding food waste is something we all aim for, and preserving food is a practical way to keep your ingredients fresh while reducing waste. Here are three simple methods to try:

  • Canning: Preserve fruits, vegetables, and jams in sealed jars, extending their shelf life and allowing you to enjoy seasonal flavors year-round. There’s nothing like opening a jar of homemade jam or pickles when fresh produce is out of season.
  • Freezing: Freeze fruits, vegetables, or even chopped ingredients to keep them fresh for months. Items like berries, greens, and prepped veggies are perfect for freezing and are always ready when you need them.
  • Pickling: Use vinegar or brine to store fruits and vegetables, giving them a longer lifespan and a tangy, delicious twist.

You don’t need a massive pantry to get started—just a few jars, fresh produce, and a little time. It’s a simple, rewarding way to make the most of what you have.

7. DIY Natural Cleaners


Ever find yourself looking at the cleaning aisle at the store, wondering if there’s a simpler, cheaper, and less toxic option?

Well, there is.

A few basic ingredients, like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, can handle most of your cleaning needs in the apartment.

These are natural, non-toxic options that won’t break the bank. You might already have them sitting in your kitchen or bathroom, so it’s a simple and affordable way to keep your apartment fresh.

It’s a small win for your wallet, your health, and the planet (not to mention, it’s kinda fun mixing up your own concoctions).

8. Create Homemade Soaps or Candles

Want to make your apartment feel a little more “homey”?

Try making your own soaps or candles. It’s easier than you think and can save you money compared to buying them at the store.

  • For candles: All you need is some wax (like soy or beeswax), a wick, and your favorite scent. You melt the wax, mix in the scent, and pour it into a jar or mold. It’s simple and doesn’t take much time.
  • For soap: You can buy a basic soap base, add your choice of scent, herbs, or color if you like, and melt it down. It’s an easy process, and you’ll know exactly what’s in it, so no artificial ingredients.

Not only will you have something useful, but making them yourself means you can avoid things you don’t want.

9. Air Dry Laundry


This is something we’ve been doing for years, even though we have a dryer.

Since it's usually hot in our area, we hang our clothes on a drying rack and place it outside on the balcony. It’s a simple thing, but it really helps save energy and cut down on our utility bills.

Besides saving energy, it gives your clothes that fresh, outdoor smell you just can’t get from a dryer.

Even if you live in a small space, this habit is easy to adopt. Just a drying rack and some room on a balcony or even near a window.

And air drying can actually help your clothes last longer. The heat and spinning in the dryer can wear clothes out, but air drying is much gentler.

10. Practice Water Conservation


Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t save water. It’s really about being mindful of how much you’re using day-to-day.

You can do it by taking shorter showers. You can also switch to a low-flow showerhead, which will cut down the amount of water you use without affecting water pressure. Small changes like these can add up over time.

Another simple tip is to reuse water. For example, after you wash your vegetables or fruits, you can collect that water and use it to water your plants. It’s making sure that water doesn’t go to waste.

Even if it’s just a little bit, every bit helps when you’re trying to conserve.

By being mindful of the little things, you can save water in your apartment without much effort.

11. Upcycle Household Items


Instead of tossing things out, why not get creative and upcycle them?

I remember asking my mom why she kept old clothes stuffed in drawers. She told me they still had a purpose. Later, I saw her sewing them into a pillow cover—it was such a clever idea.

Old jars, wood pallets, or fabric scraps can also be transformed into something useful. You can create storage containers, plant pots, or even decorative pieces.

Upcycling isn’t just practical; it also helps to reduce waste and breathe new life into items you already own.

12. Cook From Scratch

There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking from scratch. When you make your own meals, you control exactly what goes into them (and they always taste fresher).

By avoiding preservatives and artificial ingredients, your meals will feel healthier and more nourishing. Whether you’re baking bread, making soup, or crafting homemade pasta, it’s rewarding to know you’re eating something you created.

Not only that, cooking from scratch can also save money, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk or get creative with leftovers. It’s a win for your wallet and your taste buds!

13. Barter With Neighbors

One of the joys of apartment homesteading is building a sense of community.

If you’ve got an abundance of herbs, homemade jam, or candles, why not trade with your neighbors? They might have eggs, flowers, or something else to offer in return.

Bartering is a good practice to help each other out without using money. It fosters connection and makes apartment living feel less isolating.

You’ll gain new items, strengthen your community ties, and enjoy the satisfaction of mutual support.

14. Shop at Farmers' Markets


Farmers' markets are a fantastic way to support local growers and buy fresh, seasonal produce. You might even find unique items not available at regular grocery stores.

Shopping at these markets helps promote sustainable farming while giving you a chance to learn directly from farmers. You can ask how the food is grown or pick up tips for your own gardening projects.

The atmosphere at farmers' markets is also a bonus—calmer, more colorful, and laid-back compared to large supermarkets. You can take your time, enjoy the experience, and discover new foods to try.

Buying straight from farmers is good for them, good for you, and good for the planet.

15. Make a Small Emergency Kit

Creating a small emergency kit is an important part of apartment homesteading.

It’s always wise to be prepared for unexpected situations, especially if you live in an area prone to storms or emergencies.

Your kit doesn’t have to be large—just include essentials like a flashlight, water, first aid supplies, and some non-perishable snacks. Extras like batteries, a multi-tool, or a blanket can also be helpful.

Store your kit in a dry, accessible place. A sturdy plastic bin or a backpack with compartments works well to keep everything organized and easy to grab.

For added peace of mind, consider keeping kits in multiple locations, such as at home, in your car, or at work. If you’re unsure where to start, check out guide on emergency preparedness for detailed advice on what to include.

16. Save Seeds

Instead of buying new seeds every season, you can collect seeds from the plants you’ve grown in your apartment. This saves money and lets you keep growing your favorite plants year after year.

You can easily gather seeds from herbs like basil, vegetables like tomatoes or peppers (even if they’re grown in small containers), and flowers like marigolds.

With a sunny windowsill or a bit of balcony space, these plants can thrive, and you’ll have fresh seeds ready for the next planting.

Just ensure the seeds are properly dried and stored in a cool, dry place to keep them viable.

17. Grow Microgreens Indoors


Microgreens are an ideal choice for apartment homesteading since they don’t need outdoor space.

You can grow them in small containers or trays (even old takeout containers work well) and place them on a windowsill or countertop.

They are quick to grow. Radishes, mustard, and spinach usually sprout within 7 to 14 days.

They don’t need much sunlight, just a little water and care. Start with a thin layer of soil, sprinkle the seeds evenly, and mist them with water every day.

Microgreens are healthy, easy to grow, and can be added to meals like salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries. They may be small, but they pack a lot of flavor and nutrients.

If you want more detailed instructions, check out our guide on growing microgreens indoors.

18. Join a Community Supported Agriculture Program


Try joining a CSA, and you get to eat fresh, local produce without needing a garden yourself.

You pay upfront for a “share” of the harvest, and then each week you pick up a box of whatever's in season.

This could be things like tomatoes, lettuce, carrots, or even herbs, depending on the farm and time of year.

It’s a straightforward way to support local farmers, and you’ll often get more variety than what’s available at the grocery store.

And, you’re saving money by buying in bulk at a better price.

This way, you can try new vegetables and expand your cooking options (things you might not pick up at the store).

19. Reduce Energy Use

You can reduce energy by switching out old light bulbs for energy-efficient ones and unplugging electronics when you're not using them (they still use power even when turned off).

You can also use a power strip for your devices and turn it off at night to cut energy use completely.

Another tip is to adjust your thermostat by a few degrees (keeping it a bit cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer), which can make a noticeable difference in your energy bill.

These small steps make a difference in reducing your overall energy consumption.

20. Learn Basic Repair Skills


It’s practical to learn how to handle basic repairs in your apartment, and it can save you a lot of money in the long run.

For instance, a leaky faucet is an easy fix. You just need to replace the washer, which you can find at any hardware store for a couple of bucks.

Even basic plumbing or electrical issues can usually be tackled with a little research and the right tools, so you won’t need to pay a professional.

There are tons of online tutorials that show step-by-step instructions, so you don’t need to be a pro.

If you know how to fix things like a running toilet, a squeaky door, or even patching up small holes in the wall, it can make you feel more in control of your space and save you the cost of a handyman.

These are some useful homesteading skills that can make life in your apartment even more rewarding.

And there you have it: 20 ways to start homesteading in an apartment!

Apartment gardening might feel complicated, but if you take small steps and adjust along the way, it’s totally achievable.

Sometimes, it’s just about using what you have, being a little creative, and figuring out what works best in your unique environment.

It’s okay if things don’t always go as planned.

So, get started, experiment, and enjoy the process. Your little apartment garden is waiting to thrive—and so are you.

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