Why garden? Why now?
Here are a few of the reasons gardeners give for getting their hands dirty in this era when concerns about health, food fitness and the environment matter most.
Let them be your inspiration.
1. Physical activity
Gardeners get a fresh air workout by hauling, pulling, bending, and stretching while tending the garden, even with container gardens. According to the Woman’s Challenge, gardening counts at 73 steps per minute toward those 10,000 steps we all need per day.
2. Food quality
Growing your own food provides a level of control for maintaining freshness, quality, selection, convenience and safety. Gardening can give you confidence in your food.
3. Good for the environment
Plants generate oxygen, which is good for everyone. According to an article by Charles Robert, most of our food travels 1,200 miles before it reaches our table. We produce less pollution and trash by growing our own vegetables, herbs and flowers.
4. Family bonding
Gardening is a great family activity. It’s a convenient way to introduce children to nature and the life cycle. Children exposed to gardening develop a respect for the earth and its life-sustaining power that will last a lifetime.
5. Connecting with community
Getting out in the garden is also a great opportunity to connect with neighbors, meet new friends and share your bounty while making a connection to the earth.
6. Therapy for mind and spirit
There is nothing like working with nature, picking the first tomato of the season, or seeing flowers develop and blossom. Working with the soil and nurturing plants is very satisfying, relaxing and calming. Gardening is an excellent de-stressor!
Even if you have limited gardening space, container growing will still connect you to the earth. For details, see the Container Gardens fact sheet 7.238 at
ext.colostate.edu
Laura Excell is a Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Master Gardener.
