Gardening is a fulfilling activity for everyone, especially for seniors looking for a way to stay active and bring in some additional produce. If you live near Richmond or Mechanicsville, your options are varied, from traditional gardening beds to creative potted plants spread around the garden (which makes tending easier on senior bodies). Regardless of where you plan to put your green thumb, there are several steps to take before putting in any seedlings.
The Benefits of Gardening for Seniors
Gardening offers several physical and mental advantages for seniors. Gardeners who actively tend their gardens may gain flexibility as they move between garden beds, stretch their muscles as they reach tall branches of trees or shrubs, and build strength in gathering the harvest. In addition to these physical benefits, gardening can provide a sense of accomplishment as well as reduce stress levels. It's even been linked to preventing chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Furthermore, gardening gives seniors a regular reason to get outside in the sun, which can be highly beneficial to their overall mood.
Planning Your Garden
There are many steps that go into planning a great spring garden this year.
Select a Good Location
The best garden spot is somewhere with at least 6 hours of sun, and preferably 8 or more. You'll also need to check that the space has adequate drainage – some soils hold onto water too tightly and will drown any plants you place in it. Additionally, try to create the least distance between your home and garden as possible so tending doesn't become an overwhelming task.
Consider the Benefits of Raised Beds or Pot Gardens for Seniors
If bending over for long periods of time may be difficult for you, raised beds are ideal because they prevent seniors from stooping required by ground-level gardening. Containers can also provide a great option for seniors who don't have access to an outdoor area or desire more mobility when caring for their gardens.
Preparing the Soil
To get the soil ready, start by loosening it up with either a shovel or tiller before adding fertilizer and compost – both organic options help add nutrients back into shared soils while providing better drainage than traditional dirt alone. Likewise, test pH levels with kits available at local garden centers before introducing anything that loves acidic soil (think tomatoes).
Choosing Your Plants
There are a lot of vegetable plant options that are available! You're sure to please yourself as well as your family if you choose plentiful tomato varieties along with peppers, bush beans, zucchini, squash, and more. If you don't want to put in a vegetable garden, you may want to consider what types of flowers will do well together or which ones are appropriate for your garden. Consider varieties that will bloom at different times so that you can continue to enjoy your flowers throughout the season.
Show Off Your Garden to Caregivers Who Care
For many seniors, caring for a garden is a great way to stay active and get outside. However, you may still feel lonely or isolated, or struggle with in-home care tasks. Furthermore, you may occasionally need more assistance with your garden, especially if you have any mobility issues. At Senior Helpers Greater Richmond, we offer in-home care services to seniors in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Henrico, and Sandston. Contact us today to learn more about our home care options.