Are you thinking about adding a vegetable garden to your Airbnb or short-term rental (STR)? It’s a great way to add a unique and attractive feature to your property, while also potentially providing fresh produce for your guests. But before you grab your trowel, there are a few things you should consider.
The Pros of Having a Vegetable Garden at Your Airbnb/STR
- Unique Amenity: A vegetable garden can be a unique and attractive amenity that sets your Airbnb/STR apart from the competition. Guests are increasingly looking for unique experiences when they travel, and a vegetable garden can be a great way to provide one.
- Fresh Produce for Guests: Guests will love being able to pick fresh fruits and vegetables from your garden to enjoy during their stay. This can be a great way to add a touch of luxury and convenience to their experience.
- Sustainability and Eco-friendliness: Having a vegetable garden can help you to be a more sustainable and eco-friendly host. It can reduce your carbon footprint and provide fresh, organic food for your guests.
- Increased Bookings and Reviews: A well-maintained vegetable garden can help you get more bookings and better reviews. Guests are often willing to pay more for an Airbnb/STR with unique amenities like a vegetable garden.
- Conversation Starter: A vegetable garden can be a great conversation starter for you and your guests. You can share tips on gardening, discuss your favorite vegetables, and even have guests help you out with the harvest.
The Cons of Having a Vegetable Garden at Your Airbnb/STR
- Time and Maintenance: Taking care of a vegetable garden takes time and effort. You’ll need to water, weed, and harvest your vegetables regularly. If you’re not able to commit to the upkeep, a vegetable garden can quickly become an eyesore.
- Pest and Disease Control: You may also need to deal with pests and diseases in your garden. This can be time-consuming and frustrating, and it can also lead to a loss of crops.
- Seasonal Availability: Depending on your climate, your vegetables may only be available for a limited time of year. This can be a disappointment for guests who are expecting fresh produce.
- Guest Use and Respect: Not all guests will respect your garden and may use it inappropriately. You’ll need to have clear rules and expectations for guests regarding the use of your garden.
- Cost of Implementation: Depending on the size and complexity of your garden, it can be expensive to set up and maintain.
Making the Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to plant a vegetable garden at your Airbnb/STR is a personal one. There are both pros and cons to consider, and you’ll need to weigh them carefully before making a decision.
If you do decide to go ahead with a vegetable garden, be sure to do your research and plan carefully. Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight and has good drainage. Start small and gradually expand your garden as you gain experience. And most importantly, be prepared to put in the time and effort required to keep your garden healthy and productive. Look into irrigation options.
No one will miss a vegetable garden is you don’t have one but everyone will notice a garden that has not been taken care.
If you move forward, contact your state Master Gardeners to get a list of vegetables that work in your area.
Here are some additional tips for planting a successful vegetable garden at your Airbnb/STR:
- Choose vegetables that are easy to grow and thrive in your climate. Tomatoes require harvesting on a regular basis and have a short ‘ripe’ window. Peppers are more consistent.
- Consider fruit trees instead
- Use raised beds or containers centrally located to make it easier to maintain your garden.
- Start your plants from seedlings or transplants to save time.
- Water your plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Weed your garden regularly to prevent pests and diseases.
With a little planning and effort, you can have a beautiful and productive vegetable garden that your Airbnb/STR guests will love.