I wonder how many of us would like our younger days back–times when a number of activities could be done at once, times when we could arise from a stooped position without groaning and favouring that sore knee or another part of our anatomy.
Gardening is such a wonderful way to get passive exercise.
Growing things – even if they don’t require much input – still brings that joy, that relief, that sense of wonder when something you’ve planted has actually grown.
Residents who planted pineapples a few years ago are genuinely excited when they finally see a young pineapple starting to peep through.
We’ve talked about this in past columns, but even if it’s a lot harder for you now, there are still ways to enjoy this thing you once loved to do.
Some tools make things much easier – battery-operated and safer to use.
Gardens can be created off the ground, at ground level, or designed around how you prefer to garden.
Even if you have a concrete backyard, large pots – round, square, or containers of various shapes – can be used.
These can carer for a multitude of plants: bushes, flowers, or even fruit trees. Being in pots, they can be moved into the sun if necessary. Just don’t try to lift them – they’ll be heavy and you could do more harm than good. Try rolling the pot instead.
This column often talks about the easiest plants to grow, many of which cost nothing – using seeds or cuttings that, with a little care, will flourish.
Basically, all you have to do is water. But remember: for every hour you spend watering, you use about 1000 litres.
Don’t forget that some plants require only a little water, so be aware of their thirst levels.
Don’t throw out your old shoes or that slightly broken pottery container.
Any vessel that can hold soil will do – even if it doesn’t hold water.
These are ideal for flowers that spill over in spring. Why not create a small feature in your garden?
Norman H. Hanson, The Worth of Gardening: “Seek to understand what draws you to your garden. You may find greater rewards than you think, and find that your garden becomes your teacher, and crop failures become lessons learned. However big your garden is, if you allow nature to touch your spirit, your gardening will return you peace and satisfaction, for as long as you wander the garden path.”
Till next time.
