Yes—but it is more of a niche service than a mainstream housing perk. In several cities, urban planter box rentals are emerging through garden-subscription companies, community gardens, and property managers. You might rent a ready-planted box for a balcony, rooftop, or courtyard, often with seasonal planting and maintenance included. Some services offer month-to-month or six-month terms; others expect a full season.
For people who move often, the appeal is obvious: you get the joy of growing herbs, flowers, or small vegetables without buying heavy containers, soil, and tools. If your lease is short or your next apartment may lack outdoor space, renting can be less wasteful than buying a garden you have to leave behind. It can also be a good fit for renters who want greenery but do not want to negotiate permanent installations with a landlord.
However, not every rental is moving-friendly. Before you sign, check the contract length, notice period, and whether you can transfer the planter to a new address. Ask who handles watering, repairs, and winter care. Confirm whether the planter is modular and light enough to move, and whether delivery or pickup fees apply. Also compare the total cost with buying two or three lightweight fabric pots and a bag of soil; for a short stay, DIY is often cheaper.
Urban planter box rentals make the most sense for frequent movers when the service is flexible, the planter is portable, and maintenance is included. If those boxes are not ticked, a community garden plot, a balcony-friendly container garden, or a shared courtyard planter may be a better fit. In short: yes, it is a thing—just a small, city-dependent thing that rewards careful reading of the fine print.