Q. I have always been passionate about gardening. I love the smell of dirt and the first sprouts of the season. As I’m getting older, though, I’m finding my passion to be more of a burden. I’m not ready to give up gardening altogether. It truly brings me joy and has been a huge part of my life since I first helped my mom with our Victory Garden. Do you have any tips to help me continue to enjoy my favorite pastime?
A. I, too, am an avid gardener and understand the thrill of digging in the dirt. I would be devastated should I need to hang up my garden trowel for good.
Here are my best tips to help you garden with ease.
Start by switching to raised garden beds. Whether you ask someone to build them for you or purchase them from a hardware store, bring the ground to you. Depending on their height, they can allow you to work while seated or standing. They also limit your need to bend over. Place a raised bed on your patio or deck to prevent a fall out in the yard.
Another alternative is to plant in pots. Container gardening continues to grow in popularity. Your containers’ color and texture variations can also serve to add aesthetic interest and practicality to your outdoor space. Select sturdy containers that can handle the cold to eliminate needing to move them indoors come winter.
Adapt your garden equipment to limit the need to bend over for long periods of time. Use long-handled gardening tools instead of smaller garden trowels or rakes. Look for garden tools made specifically for older adults, which are ergonomically designed. If you need to bend over, remember to bend from the knees, not from your back.
Take breaks and take them often, especially as the weather warms up. Give yourself a time limit and set a timer so that you don’t lose track of time. If you’re feeling dizzy, light-headed, or overexerted, stop immediately. Find a shady place to rest and rehydrate. Use the downtime to meditate and enjoy your hard work.
Finally, wear the proper clothing to prevent minor scrapes and cuts and prevent overheating. Choose lightweight and light-colored clothing that is made with breathable material. Lather on the sunscreen and grab a hat and sunglasses before heading outside. Select closed-toed shoes that are supportive and non-skid. Evaluate your garden gloves and replace them if they are worn or torn. Take your cell phone outdoors with you in case of an emergency and keep it within reach at all times.
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