Tending a garden is just as much a reward for the heart as it is for the stomach. Eating food from your backyard fills you with pride and excitement. And the best part about gardening is that anyone can do it! Here’s what you need to know to start and maintain your garden and a list of easy-to-maintain plants.
Setting Up Your Garden
Before you start hopping along and planting everything you’ve ever wanted in your garden, here are a few things every senior should do to set their garden up for success.
- Location, location, location: The location of your garden is the first criterion for success. Plants need lots of sunlight to fully grow, so keep track of which part of your yard gets the most sun. The last thing you want is to plant tomatoes in the shade!
- Good things come in small packages: If this is the first time you’re gardening, start small. Find a few pots or planters to grow your first garden. Starting with a small garden builds your confidence over the years and is easier to maintain.
- Keep water nearby: When you pick out your location for your garden, check to see how far it is from your water supply. It may not seem like a big deal when it’s 60℉ outside to carry water to and from your garden hose, but once it’s 90℉, the situation becomes a lot more dangerous and tiresome. If the garden hose can’t reach on its own, consider an extension or moving your garden closer to the hose.
Three Types of Plants for Seniors to Grow in Their Garden
With thousands of options available, what should you grow in your garden? Do you want to eat fruits and vegetables or go to a flower garden? If you’re limited on space, should you grow vertically?
Regardless of what you choose and your situation, here are three types of plants you can grow in your garden that are easy to maintain.
1. Herbs
No matter how much space you have, herbs are easy to grow, don’t require a lot of room, and smell wonderful. Plus, the options are endless. We highly recommend you grow herbs and spices you typically eat and cook with to save precious space.
2. Flowers
A flower garden is less effort than growing produce, and it’s just as beautiful! Consider annuals, perennials, and leafy vines to add character and charm to your garden during the year.
3. Vines and Bushes
Make the most of limited gardening space by growing vines and bushy plants in a vertical garden. You can grow peas, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and even some melons (with some extra support) in a vertical garden.
Make the Most of Your Garden
Gardening might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right setup, you and your garden can thrive this year. Spend some time setting your garden up for success with the right location, water supply, and plant selection. Happy gardening, friends!