Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, a flourishing garden is one of the many places that people escape to. Not only is gardening a hobby that reaps beautiful rewards, but it is also an easy way to stay active without too much exertion. Whether you plan to start planting your favorite flowers or to grow your own organic healthy produce, it is a great pastime for people regardless of age.
As with all other hobbies, it can be overwhelming to get started. What seeds do you buy? Are there tools to avoid? It is important to stay safe when pursuing your interests, especially if you can do so by minimizing the risk of accidents like physical exertion or falling. Here is a guide to gardening to get you started on the right foot!
Take Note of the Weather Before You Start
The weather is relevant for two reasons – it can affect the type of plants that you choose to grow, and it is also important to dress accordingly when you are doing prolonged work in the garden.
Not all plants are suitable for every climate, so it is important to check the common local fauna and whether or not they are suited for your level of experience. By doing so, you can minimize the amount of frustration and hard work required to keep your plants alive.
Next, it is common sense to avoid gardening in the middle of a hurricane. However, many people tend to underestimate the impact a hot sunny day has on our bodies. Especially in spring and summer, a rise in temperature can cause heat exhaustion or dehydration. It is important to avoid gardening when it is too hot outside. Even on cloudier days, it is also crucial to monitor the temperature, wear breathable clothes, and remain hydrated throughout the process.
Using Tools
Most people who choose to pick up gardening are ready to get down and dirty with their flora. However, it is best to use tools whenever possible or needed.
Gloves are at the top of our list when it comes to recommended equipment. Not everyone likes to use them because they get in the way of feeling texture, precise movements, or just simply feel weird. However, as we age, our skin generally starts to get thinner as well. This means that you or your loved ones will be more susceptible to nicks and cuts when gardening. If not properly cared for, they could lead to potential infections. Other than protecting your hands from injuries, some gloves also have additional features like enhanced grip to better hold on to your other tools and gloves will save you some time from having to scrub under your fingernails to get all the dirt out.
Other tools we would recommend are to get a gardening seat, apron, easy-grip gardening tools, and a lightweight gardening hose. These items can be very low cost and last you a long time. More importantly, they will help to make gardening safer in a more convenient way.
Join a Gardening Community
Whether you are a complete amateur or a seasoned professional, it is always helpful and enriching to do gardening in a community. Unlike other activities, gardening with others does not mean that you will need to talk to them the whole time. Instead, it means that you have someone else who is ready to look out for you and provide help with your plants as needed.
Here at Discovery Village At Deerwood, we strongly believe that people of all ages deserve to have enriching and fun activities every day. This is why we offer exclusive senior living programs for all the residents living in our senior living community. To find out more about how you or your loved one can benefit from a placement in our senior living options, contact us today
