Condo Media - March 2022 - 25

RESTRICT PERSONAL
VEGETABLE GARDENS
WHILE MANY ASSOCIATIONS,
particularly those with larger
common areas, may allow owners
to grow some herbs in a plant bed or
have a few tomato plants, vegetable
gardens are typically restricted for
aesthetic reasons. Gardens, while
fun to grow and wonderful in their
ability to bear produce, aren't always
super attractive, unless impeccably
maintained. Also, during the offseason,
they turn into a large plot of
colorless barren land.
Gardens can also attract wildlife.
If the community is located in
an area prone to deer or rabbit
invasions, they can exacerbate the
problem because once the animals
are fi nished feeding on the garden,
they may move on to other plants or
become a safety issue or nuisance.
To satisfy the current trend of
consumers wanting to eat fruits
and vegetables grown in their
own gardens, some associations
are creating community gardens
in designated areas where people
can come and have their own plot
of land to grow what they wish.
Often this includes irrigated, raised
planting beds that can be cared
for by landscape professionals.
This approach is preferable to
having individual gardens planted
randomly in common areas
throughout the community.
Limit Lawn Furniture, Sculptures, andPlanters
FOR THOSE ASSOCIATIONS that have larger common areas, particularly if these
areas are adjacent to units, associations are advised to put limitations on planters,
lawn furniture, or lawn sculptures, not only for aesthetic reasons but because birdbaths
or small fountains with water features can become mosquito magnets that put the community's
health at risk. While some might permit small garden decorations in fl ower
beds, most do not authorize larger landscaping features in common areas. And, depending
on the type of community and common areas, it's important to include limits and
standards on types of lawn furniture, installing a patio or putting up a fence.
In urban high-rise settings, policies might include restrictions and guidelines for
roof gardens, window boxes, standing planters, and hanging plants on balconies.
Effectively Communicate Landscaping Policies
FOR CONDOMINIUMS that permit
planting in common areas, it's important
that landscaping and gardening policies
be well communicated. It's also good
to communicate in as many ways as
possible, from the owners' handbook
to seasonal emails. Be sure to remind
everyone who is responsible for what
and make sure that all owners have
easy access to this information, as
transparency helps prevent problems
down the road.
For many condominiums, landscaping
is a major component of community aesthetics.
And, whether your community is
urban high-rise or suburban townhome,
landscaping contributes to curb appeal.
Landscaping and garden policies will
defi ne a vision for your community and
demonstrate a commitment to driving
marketing value and quality of life for
owners and residents.
■ JOHN THIBOUTOT, CMCA, IS AN ACCOUNT
EXECUTIVE AT BARKAN MANAGEMENT.
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March 2022 CONDOMEDIA 25

Condo Media - March 2022

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Condo Media - March 2022