Sow, Grow, Thrive: Five Gardening Tips for Seniors
Keeping up with garden chores can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially as we age. The constant bending and stretching puts added strain on our backs, and the physical exertion of trimming and weeding can leave many of us feeling exhausted. However, for many seniors, gardening isn’t just a chore. It’s a cherished hobby that brings joy, fulfillment and a wealth of therapeutic benefits.
As we celebrate National Lawn & Garden Month this April, Visiting Angels Sheboygan wants seniors with a green thumb to continue to enjoy their favorite pastime without overexerting themselves. We’ve put together some simple tips for seniors to make gardening a breeze, no matter your level of experience.
Protect Yourself
Before you step outside, it’s essential for seniors to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays. Wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from damage. Examine your garden gloves for signs of water and tear, and replace them if needed. Remember to take bottled water outdoors with you to stay hydrated and have your cell phone nearby in case of an emergency.
Raise It Up
Another tip for seniors is to opt for raised garden beds to avoid straining your back. Many local garden centers, such as Caan’s or Walmart, sell raised garden bed kits that you can assemble at home. You can also create your own with some DIY ingenuity. Place your raised bed on a patio instead of in the yard for ease and stability. If space is limited, consider container gardening as a convenient alternative.
Opt for Low-Maintenance Plants
Thirdly, choose plants that don’t need a lot of care and thrive in your local region. Native plants are ideal, providing habitats and food for local wildlife. They also typically need less watering, pruning, and fussing over, which is perfect for seniors who want to enjoy a beautiful garden without overexerting themselves. Learn more about Wisconsin native plants at LawnStarter and at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Practice Water Conservation
In addition, seniors can make gardening a breeze by practicing water conservation. Consider installing a drip irrigation system or collecting rainwater in a rain barrel. Another tip is to use mulch around your plants. This helps to retain moisture in the soil and reduces the need for frequent watering. The City of Sheboygan published a Sustainability Guidebook in 2019 which provides valuable tips and practical information about various topics, including water reduction and water conservation. Wisconsin Horticulture has more information about rain barrels, and you can purchase one at places like Stein’s Garden & Home.
Hire Routine Help
The final gardening tip for seniors is to consider hiring a lawn and garden maintenance service to lend a hand if gardening becomes too challenging. This is especially helpful if you have mobility issues or struggle with balance. Aside from hiring a professional crew, you can enlist the help of grandkids or local teenagers looking to earn some extra cash. Let your lawn crew handle the more difficult and exerting tasks while you enjoy gardening in smaller, manageable spurts. Reach out to the Handy Helpers of Sheboygan County, who assist seniors with various chores, including lawn and garden care.
Another tip is to enlist the help of Visiting Angels Sheboygan. Our senior home care services are designed to support your independence and well-being. Whether you need assistance indoors or outdoors, our compassionate caregivers can help in a variety of ways. They can help you protect yourself from the sun by reminding you to grab your hat and sunglasses and apply sunscreen. They can assist you outdoors as you sow seeds or tend your plants. They can even transport you to local garden centers and nurseries where you can explore raised bed options or learn more about drip irrigation systems from an expert. Getting started is easy. Simply contact us today by calling 920-221-1000 to learn more about how we can support you in living your best life.