Indoor gardens are a mainstay of apartment living. However, maybe you've never cared for a plant before and aren't sure where to start, or maybe your experiences with gardening have been less than successful. Even if you don't possess the fabled green thumb, here are three creative ways to bring the outdoorsy beauty of Redmond into your Parkside apartment.

Artificial Plants

If your ideal plant is best described as “indestructible,” Etsy has you covered. Options at all price points mean you can experiment with style or splurge on the perfect plant so realistic even you won't know the difference. You can even buy from local Washington artists. Artificial plants can brighten up any room in your house: give your kitchen new life by hanging ivy above the table, dress up an old mug or jar with eucalyptus to create a coffee table centerpiece, or tuck a tiny succulent beside your soap dish to liven up bath time.

Zen Gardens

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to garden indoors without the guesswork of watering and fertilizing, try a zen garden. According to japan-guide.com, traditional Japanese dry gardens are made up of rocks (representing islands, mountains, or waterfalls) and raked gravel or sand (representing water). Buy a starter kit or build your own from materials found around your home. Don't be afraid to experiment! If you're missing sand, try using uncooked rice. Use your favorite figurines in place of rocks for a personal touch, or add a flower for a pop of color. Your zen garden can be as simple or as complex as you want, so get creative.

Paper Gardens

Create a garden all your own, and recycle your junk mail while you're at it! This budget- and earth-friendly option is a great way to get crafty in your free time. Get started with an origami tutorial to try your hand at sculpting unique plants. Build this cactus garden by Phoenix Home & Garden, get inspired by MissDebbieDIY's paper daisies, or fill your home with these adorable succulents by Lia Griffith. Your options are practically limitless! If you want more control over how your paper garden looks, invest in colorful origami paper or a set of markers.

Here at Parkside, it’s easy to make our luxury apartments come to life with a few simple touches. Contact us today to learn more about our picturesque community.