In one of my many trips to the States, I realized something that I’ve grown a bit jealous of as a Hong Konger. A lot of the families in the US have ample spots for their greens, and even those in the suburbs have decent-sized front yards where flowers can grow.

While I love Hong Kong’s skyscrapers, they don’t give us access to the same space. Still, people here are finding innovative ways to grow plants and are seeking out public gardens to make up for the lack of personal greenery. 

Do people in Hong Kong have gardens? 

Due to limited space and high population density, people in Hong Kong don’t usually have personal gardens. Outdoor spaces for individual residences are also less common compared to other places. 

Actually, many people here live in high-rise buildings or apartments where space for personal gardens is minimal or non-existent. So, no, most of us just can’t do gardens! 

Alternatives for Gardening in Hong Kong

Fortunately, several alternatives are gaining popularity among Hong Kong residents who seek to incorporate greenery into their living spaces despite space limitations. 

These alternatives enable people in Hong Kong to engage in gardening and enjoy nature within their homes or immediate surroundings.

1. Vertical Gardens

In Hong Kong, where horizontal space is limited, vertical gardens offer a creative solution. These gardens are constructed upwards on walls or structures, using vertical space efficiently. 

Residents install planters, pots, or specialized systems that allow plants to grow vertically. They can be indoors or outdoors, on balconies, walls, or within communal spaces. 

2. Rooftop Gardens

Given the scarcity of ground-level space, rooftop gardens are gaining popularity in Hong Kong. Building rooftops are transformed into green spaces, offering opportunities for gardening, relaxation, and community gatherings. 

Residents can cultivate various plants, create mini-gardens, or even establish communal garden plots on building rooftops. But of course, it depends on whether or not it’s allowed by the building’s management – it’s best to ask!

3. Indoor Plants

When there’s no room outside, Hong Kong residents bring the outdoors in.

They jazz up their homes, offices, and shops with plants like succulents, ferns, and air-purifying ones. You’ll find plants creatively placed on shelves, windowsills, and stands, creating cozy indoor green spaces.

4. Trips to Hong Kong’s Public Gardens

Sometimes, the only way we Hong Kongers can access the greenery we want is to visit our public parks. Below are some of the most popular, if you need suggestions: 

• Yuen Long Park  (1 Town Park Rd N, Yuen Long) – It features a footbridge over a serene stream, an artificial lake, and a charming waterfall. One of its highlights is the aviary pagoda perched on Shui Ngau Ling Hill. 
• Tsing Yi Park (Tsing King Road, Tsing Yi) – This park boasts a European-style garden and loads of fun things like mini soccer fields. There are also lakes, waterfalls, and cherry and maple trees.
• Sung Wong Toi Garden (Kowloon City) – The one has a special relic: a boulder honoring the last two boy emperors of the Southern Song Dynasty, Zhao Shi and Zhao Bing. There are also a lot of lovely trees and a charming fountain.