Container Gardening || Raised Beds || Pathways || Trellis || Health and Safety

Special Considerations || Tool Shed || Garden Books || Farm/Homestead Books

Home and Garden Resources for Master Gardeners

For additional information contact your local University of Missouri Extension Center or the University of Missouri AgrAbility Project at 1.800.995.8503 or via email.

University of Missouri Extension is an equal opportunity/ADA institution.

AcknowledgementsInitial support for the “Accessible Gardening Program” was provided by the USDA AgrAbility Project. The University of Missouri Outreach and Extension, Agricultural Engineering Extension and the MU Departments of Occupational and Physical Therapy collaborated with the development of these basic resource materials. Additional resource development was provided by Doris O’Hara, OTR/L.

The emphasis of the “Gardens for Every Body” program is to provide basic information on “How” to create an accessible garden as well as “How” to select and safely use ergonomic, enabling, or modified garden tools designed for persons with limitations.

In 1999, the MU accessible garden program was renamed “Gardens for Every Body,” with additional support from the NIDRR Department of Education coupled with gardening gadgets, tools, equipment, and materials donated by Lowes, Home Depot, and Wal-Mart. The emphasis of the “Gardens for Every Body” program is to provide basic information on “How” to create an accessible garden as well as “How” to select and safely use ergonomic, enabling, or modified garden tools designed for persons with limitations.

Any vessel is suitable for container gardening if it has drainage - even an old boot will do if there is a hole in the sole. Drainage is to container gardening as location is to real estate. It's everything. The quality makes container gardening a good starting point for gardeners with disabilities. The major considerations given to container gardening are the size of the container, adequate drainage, and the requirements of the plants. Small containers such as ceramic pots and large institutional food cans can be placed on benches for accessibility. There are a number of commercially produced plant containers available, but wooden boxes, barrels, and even old bathtubs work equally well. The benefits of container gardening including the following:

● Mobility - Containers are especially good because they can be moved around and even started indoors before the weather is warm outside. Containers can be moved...into the sunlight, out of the sunlight, the front yard, to the backyard, wherever you want. If you container plant start to wilt, don't worry. Just move it to a less-conspicuous spot.

● Flexibility - Containers are great for small backyards, decks and apartment balconies or patios. Containers also let you grow plants that might not otherwise be suitable for your garden. Again, the container should be at a comfortable width and height for working.

● Protection - The soil in containers warms up more and dries out earlier in spring than the ground, allowing you to plant ahead of schedule. Come fall, tender plants can easily be moved indoors.

● Additional Benefits - To get the most benefit out of your container garden keep the following in mind. All container gardens will need more watering than a standard garden. A water source should be nearby. A short hose with a watering wand is easy to maneuver or use soaker hoses or drip irrigation in your containers. If you don't have a water outlet, use a lightweight plastic, not heavy metal, watering can. Mulching will also slow the evaporation of water from the planter and keep the soil cool for the plant roots. Certain varieties of plants are more appropriate for container gardens. Look for plants or seeds as compact, drought resistant or recommended for container gardening.

Types of Containers

● Miniature Gardens - Miniature garden planters can be constructed for persons in wheelchairs that allow a great deal of individuality in designing landscapes.

● Window Boxes - Window boxes may be especially good for the individual who does not have an accessible outside area or is unable to work outside. Window boxes are usually made of wood but can be made of painted aluminum. It is important that considerations for proper drainage are given in the construction of the box. Plants can be directly planted into the soil in the box or pots can be put into the box to be removed in the winter months.

● Planting Bags - Plastic bags of artificial soil mix specifically designed for culture directly in bag are now available from some garden centers and catalogs. Plant through slits in the side of the bag; water using a watering wand or long nose watering can to fit into the opening; and fertilize weekly. Planting bags can be placed on the ground, benches or tables of any convenient height. They can be easily moved from one location to another. Although the planting bags are temporary and relatively expensive, they can produce a small garden where other methods are difficult.

● Hanging Baskets - Hanging baskets are not much different than any other container. However, their small size may require more frequent watering. Hanging baskets may be inaccessible to persons with limited mobility or strength, but a pulley system easily solves this problem. The system needs to be designed so that the rope and its attachment is accessible to any gardener who uses a chair or walker.

● Containers - Containers are what most people picture when they hear, 'Container Gardening.' They can be anything from a standard clay pot, to something more creative like an old whiskey barrel.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Container Gardening Websites

● Total Living Center, Inc.● Master Garden Products● Create an Enabling Garden● Guide to Container Gardening

Tools || Transporting || Watering || Sit Down Gardening

Gardening can be a great activity for individuals with disabilities, with some consideration to the special needs of the gardener. Raised beds provide an excellent option if the individual has the space and mobility to allow them to care for these beautiful garden plots. In planning a raised bed garden, the first step is to access the needs of the gardener. Each raised bed garden will be different depending upon the needs and desires of the individual gardener. As a general rule though, all raised bed gardens should be easily accessible, and fit aesthetically into the surroundings. Some important points to remember in planning a raised bed are:

● Place beds in places where they will receive full sunlight for at least 6 hours per day, or, if space in sunlight is unavailable, use shade-tolerant plants.

● Raised beds will require more watering than traditional gardens, be sure to keep plants well hydrated

● Incorporate fertilizer into the soil when the beds are first filled.● Use mulch to cut down on evaporation of water.● Avoid the use of chemicals in pest control.● Be sure any materials used in the construction of the beds have not been treated, if they have, line

the bed with plastic to prevent seepage into your plants.

There are several types of raised beds, consider each one carefully before selecting the one that will best meet the needs of the gardener.

Raised Ground Beds Deep Raised Beds

Terracing and Retaining Walls Elevated Beds

Raised beds can be constructed of almost any material. Below you will find a list of the most common materials, and some advantages and disadvantages of each. It is up to the individual gardener to determine which material is best suited to their individual needs.

Construction Materials

Raised Bed Standard Dimensions

Once you select a type of raised bed and construction material, it is time to build the bed and prepare it

for the plants you will select to grow. Soil preparation is vital to successful gardening. As stated previously, it is a good idea to add extra fertilizer to your soil when filling the bed. Once it is filled, double-digging is the best strategy to yield healthy plants. This may involve enlisting the help of a friend or hiring someone as it is a strenuous task.

Remove the top 12 inches of soil from the bed. Insert a spade or spading fork into the next 10-12 inches and wiggle the handle back and forth to break up the compacted layers, repeat this every 6-8 inches throughout the bed. Mix the topsoil with a generous amount of compost or manure and return it to the bed. It well be fluffy and several inches higher than ground level. To raise the bed to 8-10 inches, take topsoil and mix it in well.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Raised Bed Gardening Websites

● Raised Bed Gardening● Gardening Tips on Raised Beds● Pots 2 Plots● Raised Gardens

When constructing an adapted garden, vertical gardens, or trellis', provide an excellent option for those gardeners lacking in space. Trellis can be constructed almost anywhere, made out of almost any material. From store bought to found pieces, trellis are excellent places to grow climbing plants, such as ivy, as well as flowers and vegetables. Trellis can be adapted to different heights depending upon the needs of the individual.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Trellis Gardening Websites

● Supports for Climbing Plants● Climbing Plants● Sustainable Landscapes from Garden to

Plate

Gardening is, by far, one of the most popular pastimes in the United States. It can provide both physical and mental benefits. But this relaxing hobby can become a chore when one is faced with physical limitations. But with a little creativity and planning, people who have never gardened, or who haven't been able to garden recently can enjoy this rewarding hobby. Below you'll find links to pages dealing with specific health issues that you may be encountering as you begin or continue to garden.

Gardening for Kids with Disabilities

Gardening Techniques for the Visually Impaired

Gardening Hints for People with Arthritis

Tips for Easier Gardening

Gardening Strategies for People with Heart and Lung Problems

Basic Principles of Prevention of Repetitive Motion Issues

Tips and Techniques for the Senior Gardener

Tips for Gardeners who use Wheelchairs

Easy Tips to Modify Garden Tools for Gardeners with Back Problems

Your body is your most important and valuable gardening tool. The following suggestions can help prevent injury or undue stress when gardening:

1. Respect pain. Pain is the body’s warning sign that something isn’t right. When a garden activity causes pain, STOP. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Also, try using an ergonomic, enabling, or adapted tool to make the gardening work easier on you.

2. Poor posture can lead to pain, fatigue, and strains. Don’t sit slouched over while you garden and don’t rest your weight on one leg or arm while you work.

3. Avoid staying in one position too long. Switch tasks often, going from bending jobs like picking beans and reaching jobs like trimming a vine. Bend, stretch, and move around often to avoid stiffness.

4. Repetitive tasks can lead to injury; trying to hoe just one more row or pull just a few more weeds—can cause inflammation, tenderness, and pain in joints.

5. Use the strongest and largest joints and muscles for the job. Use you legs, not your back, when spading or lifting. Use your forearm and elbow, not your wrist or fingers, when troweling. Use your palms to push levers or tools, not your fingers.

6. Use splints, supports, and assistive devices whenever possible, but ONLY after consulting with your physician or therapist.

7. Follow and read all manufacturers’ labels for safety tips and instructions.8. Careless use of tools, or using at tasks, for which they were not designed, is asking

for trouble.9. When using any tool – and especially power tools – be sure that you understand its

operation thoroughly.10. Keep blades clean and sharp, not only on knives and pruning shears, but on

shovels, trowels, and hoes as well. Dull tools cause fatigue.11. Save your fingers. Tools can pinch or cut them and the repetitive use of the finger,

such as in pressing a squeeze-trigger spray bottle, can cause damage to tendons and joints. Alternate finger-intensive activity with less demanding hand tasks or switch from finger to finger as you work.

12. Watch hands and wrists, which are particularly susceptible to tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Repeated grip-and-release movements, like those used in operating pruning shears, are a prime cause of hand and wrist discomfort. Switch from pruning to less hand-intensive work frequently or alternate which hand you use.

13. Carrying heavy objects like watering containers can cause hand and wrist injury, especially if handles bite into flesh and cut off circulation. Make sure all handles and carrying straps are thick enough to provide you with a comfortable grip. Add

comfortable, non-slip padding wherever necessary.14. Protect elbows and shoulders from damage caused y excessive twisting and

reaching. If you garden from a sitting position, make sure your work surface is low enough that you won’t have to raise your hands above your shoulders.

15. Protect yourself from the effects of the sun. Wear lightweight clothing, long sleeved shirt, big brimmed hat, eye protection, sunscreen of at least SPF 15, and other protective gear. Avoid being out between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Drink plenty of decaffeinated fluids to prevent dehydration. Also, allow time for breaks in the shade.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Health and Safety Websites

● Gardening and Health● Farming and Gardening for

Health or Disease (The Soil and Health)

● Garden Hobbies

Garden pathways are one of the most important portions of the garden. Pathways provide an easy way in and out of the garden and also increase the beauty of your garden. Garden pathways can be made out of almost any material, depending upon who will be using the pathway most often. It is up to you to decide which pathway surface will be most efficient for your needs. Whatever surface you choose, there are some important points to remember when constructing your pathway:

● Paths should be firm, level and smooth.● Paths, ramps and other grades should not exceed a 5 percent rise in elevation.● Paths should be of an accessible width for someone in a wheelchair or using the assistance of a walker to easily

turn around.● There should be a clear beginning and end to your pathway.● Use appropriate edging to indicate the borders of your path.● Use textured surfaces for better traction.● Use contrasting colors and textures to increase visibility of your pathway.● Consider the lighting around your path and if needed, install garden lights to aid in visibility.● Place seating areas along your pathway for rest breaks.● Be sure there is ample drainage off your pathway.

Hard Pathway Surfaces Soft Pathway Surfaces● Aggregate● Stone● Asphalt● Brick● Flagstone● Wood

● Grass● Mulch● Compacted

Soil● Crushed

Limestone● Gravel

Accessible Gardening for People with Physical Disabilities: A Guide to Methods, Tools, and Plants, Janeen R. Adil, Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House, 1994.

Accessible Gardening: Tips and Techniques for Seniors & the Disabled, Joann Woy, Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpile Books, 1997.

Accessible Landscapes: Designing for Inclusion, Philip Evans and Brian Donnelly, San Francisco, CA: SFSU Foundation-Accessible Landscapes Project, Department of Plant Operations, 1993.

The Able Gardener : Overcoming Barriers of Age & Physical Limitations, Kathleen Yeomans, R.N., Pownal, VT: Storey Communication, Inc., 1992.

The Adaptive Garden Equipment: A Resource Manual for Patients, Families, and Professionals, Englewood, CO: Craig Hospital Horticultural Therapy Program, 1986.

“Easy Things to Make … … to Make Easy: Hundreds of “how-to” suggestions for older people who have physical limitations,” Doreen Greenstein, Ithaca, New York: NYS Rural Health and Safety Council, Cornell University, 1995.

Enabling Garden: Creating Barrier-Free Gardens, Gene Rothert, H.T.R., Dallas, TX: Taylor Publishing Company, 1994

Fitness the Dynamic Gardening Way: A Health and Wellness Lifestyles, Jeffery P. Restuccio, Cordo, Tx: Balance of Nature Publishing, 1992

Garden for Life: Horticulture for People with Special Needs, Lynn Davies, Saskatoon, SK: University of Extension Press, Extension Division, University of Saskatchewan, 1994.

Gardens in Healthcare Facilities: Uses, Therapeutic Benefits, and Design Recommendations, Clare Cooper Marcus and Marni Barnes, The Center for Health Design, Inc, University of California at Berkeley, 1995.

Gardening: Equipment for Disabled People, D. Hollinrake, Cochrane and. I.P. Wassenaar, Headington, Oxford, UK: The Disability Information Trust, 1992.

Gardening for the Physically Handicapped and the Elderly, Mary Chaplin, London: Batsford Press, 1978.

GARDENING IS FOR EVERYONE, Audrey Cloet and Chris Underhill, London WIH OAH: B.T. Batsford LTD, 1990.

Landscape Design for Elderly & Disabled People, Jane Stoneham and Peter Thoday, Wappinger’s Fall, NY: Garden Art Press/Antique Collectors’ Club Limited, 1994.

Nature as a Guide, Linda Lloyd Nebbe, Minneapolis, MN: Educational Media Corporation, 1991.

Raised Bed Gardening: A Resource Manual for Patients, Families, and Professionals, Englewood, CO: Craig Hospital Horticultural Therapy Program, 1988.

Source Book for the Disabled, Glorya Hale, ed., New York: Paddington Press, 1979.

Square Foot Gardening: A New Way to Garden in Less Space with Less Work, Mel Bartholomew, Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1983.

Woodworking Projects for the Garden: 40 Fun & Useful Things for Folks Who Garden, Richard Freudenberger, Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 1994.

Kids Gardening Books or Resource Materials:

Better Homes and Gardens, New Junior Garden Book: cool projects for kids to make and grow, Felder Rushing, Des Moines, IA: Meredith Books, 1999.

Grow It!: An Indoor/Outdoor Gardening Guide for Kids, Erika Markmann, New York: Random House, 1991.

Let’s Grow!: 72 Gardening Adventures with Children, Linda Tilgner, Pownal, VT: Storey Communications, 1998.

Resource Books for Small Farms & Homesteads

This list of recommended books for small farms and homesteads makes a great start to your library.

Ashworth, S., and Whealy, K., Seed to SeedSubtitle for this book: Seed Saving and Growing Techniques for Vegetable Gardeners details how to save seeds for over 160 vegetables, including detailed information about each vegetable. All techniques are thoroughly researched and tested.

Bartholomew, M., All New Square Foot GardeningIf you desire to grow more vegetables--and flowers in less space then the All New Square Foot Gardening is for you. The author takes you through his proven Square Foot Gardening method adopted by satisfied gardeners for more than twenty-five years. Now in the All New Square Foot Gardening, the author unveils ten new improvements that save you more time and more money—all with a lost work.

Bubel, M. and N., Root CellaringThe authors outline simple, step-by-step advice for creating winter storage for vegetables and fruits.

Coleman, E., Four-Season HarvestThe author asks, “Why stop gardening at the end of summer?” With the techniques and strategies outlined in this helpful book, you can extend your gardening season significantly, no matter how far north you live.

Damerow, G., Barnyard in Your BackyardThis book covers the basics on raising chickens, ducks, geese, rabbits, goats, sheep, and cattle (both dairy and beef). It's a great introduction to a variety of animals. For more in-depth information on a specific breed, the Storey Guide for that particular breed might be more useful.

Ekarius, C., Small-Scale Livestock FarmingThis book is great for farmers just getting started. With a heavy emphasis on determining

what you want from your farming life and planning your farm enterprise, it helps small farmers build a strong foundation for their farm. It also covers choosing livestock, understanding housing, fencing and feeding needs, breeding, and market strategies. This book takes a grass-based, grazing approach to farming.

Emery, C., The Encyclopedia of Country LivingThis classic book covers many aspects of basic farm life, including gardening, food preparation, and buying land. Also included is information on keeping bees, culturing yogurt, baking bread, and artificially inseminating a turkey.

Jeavons, J and Cox, C., The Sustainable Vegetable Garden, A backyard guide to healthy soil and higher yieldsThis book presents basic principles of gardening and classic in concise, easy-to-understand terms accessible to even a beginning backyard gardener. You’ll learn to view your garden as its own mini-ecosystem and to foster the soil’s life-giving cycles of nourishment and replenishment. Sustainable gardening is an essential environmental solution for the new millennium, and this book helps you contribute to that solution—in your own backyard.

Kilarski, B., Keep Chickens!This is an excellent introduction to keeping chickens for eggs, especially appropriate for the urban or suburban farmer. Feeding, coop and henhouse design, and egg collecting and washing is covered.

Lodgson, G., The Contrary FarmerThe focus of this book is on cottage farming for enjoyment as well as profit. The author serves as an antidote to "traditional" family farming on a large scale. This book is inspirational while teaching some basics, and is an entertaining and worthwhile read for anyone getting started with a farming venture.

Salatin, J., You Can FarmSubtitled "The Entrepreneur's Guide to Start & Succeed in a Farming Enterprise," this book is by the acclaimed owner of Polyface Farm in Virginia. The author describes his own experience with the focus on a profit-making enterprise, but there's also a lot of great information for small farmers who don't want to bring products to market.

Seymour, J., The Self-sufficient Life and How to Live ItThrough a British lens, this book covers the basics of homesteading and small farming for urbanites new to rural living. Topics covered include: food from the garden, animals, the fields and the wild; in the dairy; in the kitchen; brewing and wine-making; energy and waste; and crafts and skills. This book also shares information about many aspects of the homesteading and self-sufficient lifestyle.

Smith, E.D., The Vegetable Gardener’s BibleThe author outlines his high yield W-O-R-D system for all North American Gardening Regions to growing organic vegetables. The (W-O-R-D)… Wide rows, Organic methods, Raised beds, and Deep soil techniques are outlined.

Coupons

Search

● HOME● COUPONS● SHOPPING GUIDES● HOLIDAYS● COUPONS RSS● BLOGGER NETWORK● Halloween

●

Home and Garden Resources for Master Gardeners

Gardening is a popular pastime that is enjoyed by a number of individuals living in the United

Gardening is a popular pastime that is enjoyed by a number of individuals living in the United States, and around the world. For some people, gardening is more than just a hobby. Master gardeners, for example, are individuals whose love for gardening has resulted in their obtainment of education related to the development, maintenance, and harvest of a professional garden. In most cases, master gardening programs are offered by university extension programs around the United States. While these programs may vary slightly from state to state, they usually require participants to take and pass at least 50 hours of coursework in the field of gardening, and perform an addition 50 hours of volunteer time in their community, during which they can learn more of the "hands-on" techniques of gardening. Though becoming a master gardener can substantially increase skills when it comes to growing plants and flowers, additional education may be needed. Master gardeners who hope to achieve optimal results in their home or professional gardeners may need to continue their study of pest management, vegetable and flower gardens, harvesting, and composting.

Pest Management

❍ Water Quality and Use: Integrated Pest ManagementDescribes different forms of pest control and management which limit the need for chemicals.

❍ Garden Insect and Pest ControlTips and suggestions for the management and control of different types of garden pests.

❍ Home Vegetable Garden Insect Pest ControlIdentifies some of the most common types of garden pests, their habits, and how they can be controlled.

❍ Home, Garden, Turf, and Landscape PestsInformation on pests, describes the habitats that they most prefer, and lists effective management techniques.

❍ Vegetable Garden Pest Management Various publications regarding pest management in home gardens.

Planning a Vegetable Garden

❍ Planning Your Vegetable GardenRecommendations for the effective selection of vegetables, location, and tools for a successful vegetable garden.

❍ Planning a Vegetable GardenDiscusses the importance of location and size when it comes to a successful vegetable garden.

❍ Cooperative Extension: Planning a Vegetable GardenTips for planting vegetable gardens, feature growth charts and identify which types of soil are ideal.

❍ Vegetable Growing in the DesertDescribes the ways that different types of vegetables can be grown in less than ideal circumstances.

❍ Hydroponic Vegetable GardeningDescribes the process by which a vegetable garden can be grown using hydroponic techniques.

Planning a Flower Garden

❍ Gardening in Western Washington: FlowersList of questions and answers about planting, growing, and cutting flowers for master gardeners.

❍ Gardening Tips for Northeast Texas: FlowersDiscusses the different types of flowers that can be grown in Northeast Texas, and provides recommendations on their maintenance and success.

❍ Denton County Master Gardener Association: Gregg's Mist FlowerSpecifications on the flower known as Gregg's Mist, describes why, where, and when it should be planted for optimal results.

❍ Flower Name: RoseA brief history on the rose, describes some of the different types of roses, their individual growing patterns, and how they can be used in the garden.

❍ Northern Gardening Tips from Alaska Master GardenersTips and recommendations for growing flowers in northern climates.

Planting/Harvesting Calendar and Advice

❍ Harvesting and Preserving DillRecommendations for master gardeners on how dill plans can be harvested and preserved for future use.

❍ Harvesting PumpkinsTips and recommendations on harvesting different types of pumpkins, describes how pumpkin seeds can be stored for use in planting next year.

❍ Today's Tips: Harvesting Your Tomato SeedsRecording from master gardeners that describes the manner in which tomato seeds can be preserved and stored for the future.

❍ Easy GardeningInstructions on the harvesting, handling, and storage of fresh vegetables that have been picked from the garden. Provides recommendation on extending the life of fresh vegetables.

❍ How Do You Pick a Ripe Watermelon?Detailed instructions on the selection and harvest of a ripe watermelon.

Yard and Waste Composting

❍ Master Gardener Foundation of Thurston CountyTrainings and workshops for master gardeners who are interested in learning more about the topic of composting.

❍ CompostingBrief definition of the process of composting, describes different techniques that can be used when composting, and provides recommendations for those who hope to achieve success.

❍ Master Gardener Composting BasicsStep by step guide for successful composting, provides recommendations for tools and containers for effective composting.

❍ FAQs: CompostingDescribes materials that should be used when composting, list of recommendations for success in composting.

❍ Composting ResourcesList of articles and additional websites that can be used by individuals who wish to learn more about composting for the home garden.

Featured Coupons

Fashion Codes & Coupons

❍ Soft Surroundings Outlet Online Coupons❍ ViX Swimwear Discount Codes❍ Luisaviaroma Discount Codes❍ QVC Promo Code❍ Yes Style Coupons❍ Columbia Sportswear Coupons❍ Ted Baker Discount Codes❍ Finish Line Free Coupons

Popular Coupons

❍ Xerox Coupons❍ LifeProof Coupon Code❍ Nordstrom Promo Code❍ Norton Anti Virus Discount Codes❍ Gohastings Free Coupons❍ Sirius XM Radio Coupon Code❍ ExOfficio Promo Code❍ Tazo Coupon Code

Home & Housewares

❍ Comcast Business Coupons❍ Panasonic Promo Code❍ Destination Maternity Corporation Free Coupons❍ Allianz Travel Insurance Promo Code❍ Memory Lane Promo Code❍ State Farm Free Coupons❍ Event Decor Direct Coupons

Sports & Fitness

❍ Magellans Free Coupons❍ Homerunmonkey Free Coupons❍ Jillian Michaels Body Revolution Free Coupons❍ Police Discount Codes❍ G Adventures / Discovery Adventures Coupon Code❍ Ab Glider Coupon Code❍ Manduka Coupon Code

Featured Stores

●

CP Toys

●

Journeys

●

●

Walgreens

●

Sears

●

●

●

●

Latest Deals

●

Nikki's by Design Warm Greetings Gourmet Gift Basket For $42.98

Added 122 days ago ●

5 Pc Munchkin Bath Tub Crayons For $3.99 Added 122 days ago

●

Radio Flyer Groove Glider Scooter in Pink For $31.91 Added 122 days ago

●

MEEP! 2.1.2 Android 4.0 Kids Tablet For $99.99 Added 123 days ago

●

Discovery Kids Pop Up Boys Castle Tent For $24.99 Added 123 days ago

● About Us● |● Terms of Use● |● Privacy Policy● |● Site Map● |● Store Directory● |● Coupons Guides Directory● |● Contact Us

● Visit our other sites:● WikiAnswers● |● Guides● |● VideoAnswers● |● LocalAnswers

● Copyright © 2014 Answers Corporation

The Many Benefits of Gardening! Today, gardening remains one of our favorite pastimes, especially among

seniors. The stimulating exercise, fresh air and sunshine promote stress relief,

increased happiness and more patience. And, the sense of purpose and

accomplishment gardening engenders, has proven to be a catalyst for faster

recovery from illness and depression.

Thanks to Accessible Gardens™ versatile

and affordable raised garden beds,

everyone, regardless of age or physical

limitation, can continue to reap the many

rewards of gardening.

Distinguish Yourself and

Enhance Your Appeal!

While the versatile Accessible Garden™ can enhance a home garden, or meet a

chef’s fresh herb needs, it can be an especially valuable asset to Senior Living

and Healthcare facilities - instantly and affordably expanding gardening as an

activity and/or therapy for everyone.

• Retirement Communities • Hospitals & Rehabilitation Centers

• Assisted Living Communities • Community Senior Centers

• Memory Care Communities • Private Homeowners

• Skilled Nursing Homes • Veteran's Homes & Centers

• Municipal Housing Authorities • Schools, Parks & Playgrounds

No Special Site Prep. Place Them Anywhere

And, because they're portable, an Accessible Gardens™ can go anywhere - an

immediate asset with immediate results - transforming limited or formerly

unsuitable space into engaging, productive garden space with no long lead

times. And, they set up in just minutes.

Copyright ©2013 Accessible Gardens.™ HOME | ABOUT US | PRODUCTS | STYLES | FAQ | NEWS | CONTACT US

One Stop | Directories | Search U of M

What's Inside

Design

Plant Selection

Implementation

Maintenance

SULIS Home

Home > Design > Healing Gardens

Healing Gardens

Background:

Throughout history gardens have been used to aid in the healing process - from the Japanese Zen Garden to the Monastic Cloister garden. However, with the advances in medical technology in the 20th century, the use of gardens as healing elements began to diminish. Fortunately with the recent interest in complementary and alternative therapies, which emphasizes healing the whole person -- mind, body, and spirit -- rather than simply alleviating symptoms, the interest in garden as healer has been revived.

Royonaji Meditation Gardens © Meryl Meisler 2001.

Cloister Garden of Lincoln Cathedral. (Photo courtesy of Mary's Gardens)

Research has been done showing the therapeutic benefits of gardens. Roger Ulrich, a professor and director of the Center for Health Systems and Design at Texas A & M University, found that viewing natural scenes or elements fosters stress recovery by evoking positive feelings, reducing negative emotions, effectively holding attention / interest, and blocking or reducing stressful thoughts. When viewing vegetation as opposed to urban scenes, test subjects exhibited lower alpha rates which are associated with being wakefully relaxed. Further research by Ulrich showed surgical patients with views of nature had shorter post-operative stays,

fewer negative comments from nurses, took less pain medication and experienced fewer minor post-operative complications than those with a view of a brick wall. Although more research is necessary, results based on research thus far indicate the healing effects of natural elements such as gardens.

What is a healing garden?

Based on research by Ulrich and others, it could be argued that any garden is a healing garden. However, for the purposes of this article, we refer to Eckerling's definition of a healing garden: "a garden in a healing setting designed to make people feel better" (Eckerling, 1996). The goal of a healing garden is to make people feel safe, less stressed, more comfortable and even invigorated.

Designing Healing Gardens:

When designing healing gardens, the same considerations are used as in designing any other garden. However, these considerations take on special meaning in healing environments.

● Functionality is imperative because the garden needs to accommodate the limitations of the users of the space.

● It is also important that the garden design be maintainable both for physical safety and therapeutic benefits. At institutions such as hospitals, it is especially important that the garden be easy to maintain because a poorly maintained garden could make patients lose confidence that they are being well taken care of by hospital staff.

● If the garden isn't environmentally sound, it could be detrimental to the users of the space, especially those who are physically unwell.

● Often times the funding for healing gardens is raised through donations and other contributions. Therefore is it important that the garden design be cost effective.

● Finally, healing gardens are meant to provide pleasant surroundings to produce restorative effects for its users. The garden will not be successful if it isn't visually pleasing.

Paved walkways of the Sensory Garden located at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (Photo courtesy of the UMN Landscape Arboretum)

It is important to use the principles of design to create unity within the healing garden design.

● Simplicity is essential in designing healing gardens to keep the space easy to understand. Many of the people using healing gardens are dealing with stress, therefore it is important that the space not have too much "going on" to add any additional stress.

● At the same time, the design should include a variety of form, texture, seasonal interest, and color to provide sensory stimulation. Not having enough interest can also be stressful to the users of the space.

● It is important to create balance, whether symmetrical or asymmetrical, so the space feels stable as a whole.

● Use key, specimen, group, and mass plantings to create emphasis within the space. This provides focal points to help people orient themselves in the garden.

● Create sequence or smooth transitions from one area of the landscape to another. This is especially important to create good flow when going from public gathering areas to more private areas for solitude.

● It is also important to use the appropriate scale. If the healing garden is located by a high-rise building such as a hospital, use elements such as trees to bring the space down to a human scale.

In addition to the design principals, the following is a list of design suggestions for creating healing gardens. These are simply guidelines. Each site and application is unique and some of the suggestions may not be appropriate. Paths and Surfaces

● Provide five-foot minimum width at paths for one-way traffic to accommodate the turning radius of a wheelchair. For two-way wheelchair traffic, provide seven-foot minimum width. See illustration below.

Figure 1: Example of path width and design. (Illustration by M. Furgeson)

● Create a change in texture at the edge of a path to help people with low vision to recognize when they are off the path. Raised edges on a path can create a tripping hazard.

● Path surfaces must be firm, smooth, and provide traction to allow for easy movement of wheelchairs, gurneys and IV poles. Paving with deep grooves can be an obstacle. Concrete is a good choice, but can be expensive. Asphalt absorbs and radiates heat which can be hot in the summer. Decomposed granite is good for people in wheelchairs, but not for those on crutches. Newer rubberized paving materials are firm enough for wheelchairs and also cushion falls.

● Avoid materials that produce glare. Light concrete can be especially troubling to older people. Use tinted concrete if possible.

● Limit grade changes in most highly used outdoor areas. The slope of a walk must not exceed 5% or 1 foot of rise for 20 of feet length. Cross slope must not exceed 2% or 1 foot of rise for 50 feet of length. See illustration below.

Maximum Slope Maximum Cross Slope

Figure 2: Maximum slope and cross slope. Illustration by M. Furgeson.

● Where slope does exceed 1:20, provide a support railing for those with unsure footing. Consult your local building codes for exact accessibility requirements. When dealing with healing gardens, building codes are just a start in terms of clearances. They are often the bare minimum that should be allowed.

Spatial Layout

● Provides a variety of spaces to accommodate different activities and levels of privacy from spaces to allow group activities to spaces that allow solitary contemplation.

● Creates a planting buffer between people in the garden and any windows looking out onto the garden to avoid a "fish bowl" affect.

● Provides transition areas between public and private garden spaces as shown in the following figure:

Figure 3: Planting bed provides transition between public gathering area at right and

more intimate seating area at left. (Illustrartion by M. Furgeson)

● Provides users of the garden options for control of privacy. ● Keeps intrusive noises to a minimum. When possible, locate the garden away from noisy

streets or mechanical elements such as air conditioners. Where undesirable noises can't be avoided, incorporate features to mask the sound such as a water feature or wind chimes.

● The layout of the garden should be easily "readable" to minimize confusion for those who are not functioning well. Paths should be clearly laid out.

● Landmarks should be provided to help orient the users of the space. This can be done with elements such as sculpture, a profusion of flowers, or a water feature as shown in the picture above.

● Offer a variety of sunny and shady areas for people with varying tolerances to light exposure.

● Offer seating of as many types and forms as possible to provide a choice to those using the garden. Lightweight chairs are desirable in allowing users to move the seating wherever they wish. Plenty of sturdy seating with backs and arms should be provided for those that need support for sitting for long periods of time.

● Where possible, provide a water feature. Water provides a calming effect on people.

Plant Selection

● When selecting plants materials, research which particular species might have special sacred or evocative meanings for the cultural and age groups being served.

● If possible, use plants that have some medicinal value. Click here for more information on Medicinal Plants. For an example of a garden design using medicinal plants, visit Southern Cross University - Medicinal Plant Garden.

● Choose plants that engage all the senses. Use a variety of textures, scents, colors, as well as plants that make pleasant sounds as wind rustles their leaves. Providing seasonal interest allows people to connect with the cycle of nature.

● Avoid thorny or toxic plants, especially in gardens used by children or people with certain psychological disorders. For more information on poisonous plants, see the Cornell University Poisonous Plants Informational Database.

❍ Incorporate elements that will attract wildlife including berry-producing shrubs, birdbaths and bird feeders. Avoid plants that attract large numbers of bees or undesirable insects.

(Photo courtesy of UMN Landscape Arboretum)

● Choose insect- and disease-resistant varieties to eliminate pesticide use. ● Plant higher maintenance plants such as vegetables, herbs and cut flowers in easy-to reach

or raised beds.

Flowers and vegetables are planted in raised beds to create ease of maintenance and easier access by visitors with limited mobility. (Photo courtesy of the UMN Landscape Arboretum)

Designing Healing Gardens for Specific Uses:

The following is a list of design suggestions for incorporating a healing garden into a landscape for specific applications. Some suggestions may be repeated from the earlier section. Again, these are simply guidelines. Each site and application is unique and some of the suggestions may not be appropriate.

Psychiatric Hospital Gardens

● Use materials that can withstand abuse over time. ● If safety is an issue, use materials that are impossible to use in harming

anyone. ● Avoid poisonous plants.

● Avoid plants that are irritating to the touch. ● The layout of the garden should be easily "readable" to minimize confusion for

those who are not functioning well. Paths should be clearly laid out. ● Create a planting buffer between people in the garden and any windows

looking out onto the garden to avoid a "fish bowl" affect.

For an example of the process that South West Yorkshire Mental Health NHS Trust went through to develop a healing garden space, visit Developing a Therapeutic Garden: Ward 17 Courtyard Improvement Team and click on their PowerPoint presentation.

Children's Gardens

● Make all entrances welcoming and child-friendly. ● Provide differentiation of spaces for preadolescent / adolescent groups, if

appropriate. ● Provide a comfortable social environment with plenty of places for parents and

staff to sit and share the space with children. ● Provide as many options as possible for children to interact with nature

through their senses and/or hands-on activities. ● Provide opportunities for planting and harvesting. ● Provide a range of appropriately scaled, accessible multi-purpose settings for

hands-on activity as well as for social gatherings of different types.

The following are examples of children's gardens:

● Chicago Botanic Garden - Children's Garden

● Leichtag Family Healing Garden at Children's Hospital and Health Center San Diego.

● Carley's Magical Gardens at Children's Hospital and Health Center in San Diego

● Brooklyn Botanic Garden - Children's Garden

Nursing Home Gardens

● Use warm, highly saturated hues (red, orange, yellow) that are easier for the elderly to see than cooler hues (blue, purple, green).

● Use plants with different leaf textures, forms, and smells to stimulate the senses and memory.

● Provide different lengths and difficulty of walking routes that will provide choice to residents with different needs.

● Providing handrails will encourage less able residents to participate in outside activities. ● Provide transition areas between indoor and outdoor spaces, such as screen porches or

overhangs, to provide protection from the elements, allow eyes to adjust to bright outdoor light, and provide a place to sit and view the activities without being involved in them.

● Provide sunscreens, trellises, fences, walls, baffles, and plant materials to alleviate the harsh effects of the sun and wind in outdoor spaces.

● Carefully place and select trees with dense canopies to reduce glare and control light penetration.

● Provide a clear organizational pattern with well-identified paths, a clear hierarchy of spaces and features or focal points to help orient residents.

● Pathways should contrast with planting areas to help define the boundary between path and plantings for residents with reduced depth perception. - The color of chairs and tables should contrast with floor material so they are distinguishable by people with sight impairments.

● Choose seating with back support and arm rests. ● Situate plantings to provide views from windows looking out onto the garden for people who

are unable to go outside.

The following is an example of a nursing home garden:

● Inchmarlo House Nursing Home and Retirement Community

For more information on gardening for older adults, visit Gardening for Good.

Alzheimer's Treatment Gardens

● Paths should be a continuous level loop without dead ends which may frustrate dementia residents.

● Provide nonpoisonous plants. ● Utilize plants and other elements that stimulate memory, conversation, and

activity. ● Use subdued colors, textures and forms to create a calming environment. ● Choose seating with back support and arm rests. ● Provide landmarks such as sculpture, a profusion of flowers, or a water

feature to help orient the users of the space.

The following is an example of an Alzheimer's / memory garden:

● The Portland Memory Garden.

Hospice Gardens

● Provide transition spaces between indoor and outdoor spaces to allow adjustment to bright outdoor light.

● Provide soothing natural sounds in the garden -- hearing is often the last of the senses to leave a dying person.

● Provide quiet places to sit and contemplate. ● To encourage people to touch things in the garden, use plants and structures

with a variety of textures. ● Provide a view from the window for patients that can't go outside. ● Design with materials that improve, rather than wear out with age. ● Provide a water feature. Water is a soothing agent. Still water can provide a

setting for meditation or prayer while the sound and view of moving water is undeniably restorative.

The following are some examples of hospice gardens:

● Tribute Garden at San Diego Hospice

● The Hospice Foundation of Cape Cod Memorial Garden Walk

● Brattleboro Area Hospice Memorial Garden

Gardens for the Visually Impaired

● To aid orientation, the garden can be laid out with straight edges and right angles. Avoid curves and intricate patterns.

● Provide landmarks or reference points to assist in orientation. Examples of landmarks are: scented or tactile plants, ornaments and furniture, sound elements such as wind chimes or running water, or path materials such as gravel or bark.

● Use vivid colors and bold materials as reference points for people with partial sight.

● Color contrast can be used for containers, pathways, fences, gate latches, steps, and other things the gardener might have trouble finding or noticing.

● Distribute scent in the garden to various locations and at different times of year. Too many scents in one place can confuse and hinder orientation.

● Ornaments and seating should be recessed from pathways. ● Use texture changes in paths to indicate changes in direction.

The following are some examples of gardens designed for the visually impaired:

● Dunedin Garden for the Visually Impaired

● Touch and Smell Garden for the Visually Impaired

● Brooklyn Botanic Garden -- Fragrance Garden

Meditation Gardens - The aim of these gardens is to aid relaxation and provide a focus for concentration, which will enhance the healing experience.

● Garden layout should be as simple and uncluttered as possible. ● Some possible layouts are a circle which represents the cycle of life, a square

representing universal order, or symbols such as a Celtic knot which represents a journey.

● Provide an area of lawn or some type of seating suitable for sitting for long periods of time.

● Provide a focal point within view of the seating area. ● Include a water feature where possible. It is the perfect focal point for

contemplation. ● Avoid using clashing colors. ● Choose cool colors (violet, blue, green) in the plantings.

An example of a garden for meditation is the Cleveland Botanical Garden

The following are some other types of meditative gardens:

● To get a background on labyrinth gardens, visit Myth and History of Garden Labyrinths.

● Zen and the Art of the Ancient Tea Garden at the Cleveland Botanical Garden

Enabling Gardens are gardens designed especially for people of all ages and abilities. For more information on enabling gardens, see the University of Illinois Extension. The following are examples of enabling gardens:

● The Miriam H. Davies Enabling Garden

● Enabling Garden at Chicago Botanic Garden

Sensory Gardens are designed to appeal to all five of the senses. The following are examples of sensory gardens:

● Sensory Garden at the Royal Schools for the Deaf Manchester

● Clotilde Irvine Sensory Garden at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

● Denver Botanic Gardens -- Sensory Gardens

Gardens for Horticultural Therapy -- For information on designing gardens for horticulture therapy, visit Accessible Gardening for Therapeutic Horticulture. The following are more Horticulture Therapy links:

● The American Horticultural Therapy Association.

● Therapeutic Horticulture Services at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

● The Holden Arboretum Horticulture Therapy Program

● Horticultural Therapy at the Chicago Botanic Garden

More helpful links on Healing Gardens:

● Therapeutic Landscapes Database

● Meristem -- Restorative Gardens for Health Care Environments

● Human Issues in Horticulture

Recommended Reading:

Gerlach-Spriggs, Nancy, Richard Enoch Kaufman and Sam Bass Warner, Jr. (1998). Restorative Gardens: The Healing Landscape. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press.

McDowell, Christopher Forrest and McDowell, Tricia Clark. (1998). The Sanctuary Garden: Creating a Place of Refuge in Your Yard or Garden. Fireside.

Murray, Elizabeth. (1997). Cultivating Sacred Space: Gardening for the Soul. San Francisco: Pomegranite.

Rawlings, Romy. (1998). Healing Gardens. Minocqua, WI: Willow Creek Press.

References:

The American Horticultural Therapy Association. (2003.) http://www.ahta.org/

Bennett, Paul. (March 1998). Golden Opportunities. Landscape Architecture. 50-55.

Brattleboro Area Hospice. (2003)."Brattleboro Hospice Memorial Garden Page." http://www.brattleborohospice.org/garden.htm

Brooklyn Botanic Garden. "Garden Stroll: Children's Garden." http://www.bbg.org/exp/stroll/children.html

Brooklyn Botanic Garden. "Garden Stroll: Fragrance Garden." http://www.bbg.org/exp/stroll/fragrance.html

Brown, Dan. (2003). "Cornell University Poisonous Plants Informational Database." http://www.ansci.cornell.edu/plants/index.html.

Champaign County Forest Preserve District. (2001). "Nomination for IPRA's Outstanding Facility Award: The Miriam H. Davies Enabling Garden." http://www.ccfpd.org/enabgard.pdf

Chicago Botanic Garden: Garden for Life. (2000). Paving Alternatives fir the Accessible Garden [Brochure].

Chicago Botanic Garden. (September 2002). "Explore the Gardens: Children's Garden." http://www.chicagobotanic.org/explore/GardenChildren.html

Chicago Botanic Gardens. (September 2002). "Explore the Gardens: Enabling Garden." http://www.chicagobotanic.org/explore/GardenEnable.html

Chicago Botanic Gardens. (September 2002). "Horticultural Therapy." http://chicagobotanic.org/therapy/HortTherapyGardenUpdate.html

Children's Hospital and Health Center San Diego. "Special Family Places." http://info.chsd.org/90.cfm

Cleveland Botanical Garden. "Living Exhibit Gardens: A Quiet Retreat." http://www.cbgarden.org

Cleveland Botanical Garden. "Living Exhibit Gardens: Zen and the Art of the Ancient Tea Garden." http://www.cbgarden.org

Cooper Marcus, Clare, and Barnes, Marni. (1999). Healing Gardens: Therapeutic Benefits and Design Recommendations. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Denver Botanic Gardens. "Sensory Gardens." http://www.botanicgardens.org/pageinpage/sensorygardens.cfm

Eckerling, Mara. (1996). Guidelines for Designing Healing Gardens. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 8, 21-25.

"Gardening for Good." http://www.gardening4good.org/

GoneGardening.com. (2003). "Garden Design for Visually Impaired Gardeners." http://www.gonegardening.com/xq/ASP/group_id.22/article_id.109/referer./qx/gg_shop/article.htm

High Iron Illustrations. (2003). "Children's Hospital." http://www.highironillustrations.com

The Holden Arboretum. "The Holden Arboretum Horticulture Therapy Program." http://www.holdenarb.org/hortth.htm

Hospice and Palliative Care of Cape Cod. (2002). "The Hospice Foundation of Cape Cod Memorial Garden Walk." http://www.hospicecapecod.org/Foundation/Garden_Walk.php

Inchmarlo House Nursing Home and Retirement Community. "Inchmarlo: Garden Paradise." http://www.inchmarlo-retirement.co.uk/Garden_Paradise/garden_paradise.html

Larson, Jean, Anne Hanchek and Paula Vollmar. (2003). "Accessible Gardening for Therapeutic Horticulture." University of Minnesota Extension Service. http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG6757.html

Mary's Gardens. (1995). "Flowers of Our Lady and Mary Gardens in the U.K. http://www.mgardens.org/NATFOLMG-UK.html

Martin, Frank Edgerton. (September 1985). Home Truths. Landscape Architecture, 60-61.

Medicinal Plants. (October 1998). http://world.std.com/~krahe/html1.html

Meisler, Meryl and Francine LaPorte. "Buddhist Temple Architecture and Zen Gardens." Enter Through the Form: Explore Japan. http://www.thebleedingedge.org/features/japan_enter/mmpages/japan_zen.html

Meristem. (2002). "Meristem -- Restorative Gardens for Health Care Environments." http://www.meristem.org/index.htm

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. (1998). "Therapeutic Horticulture Services." http://www.arboretum.umn.edu/education/therhort/index.htm

M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation. (April 2003). "Touch and Smell Garden (for the Visually Impaired)." http://www.mssrf.org/touchandsmell/touchandsmell.html

Portland Memory Garden. "About Us: What is a Memory Garden?" http://www.centerofdesign.org/pmg/about.html

Quigley, Martin. (2000). "Myth and History of Garden Labyrinths." Chadwick Arboretum and Learning Garden. http://www.chadwickarboretum.osu.edu

Rawlings, Romy. (2003). "Meditation in the Garden." http://www.baseball.ca

Relf, Diane. "Human Issues in Horticulture." Virginia Tech Department of Horticulture. http://www.hort.vt.edu/human/human.html

Rothert, Gene. (1994). The Enabling Garden: Creating Barrier-Free Gardens. Dallas, TX: Taylor Publishing Company.

Royal Schools for the Deaf Manchester. (2003.) "School Facilities: Sensory Garden." http://www.rsdmanchester.org/facilities/garden.html

Sachs, Naomi. (2002). "Therapeutic Landscapes Database." www.healinglandscapes.org

San Diego Hospice and Palliative Care. (2002.) "The Tribute Garden at San Diego Hospice." http://www.sdhospice.org/tribute.htm

Scarfone, Scott C. (1996). Design of Outdoor Environments for Wellness and the Role of Landscape Architecture. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 8, 68-71.

South West Yorkshire Mental Health NHS Trust. (2003). "Developing a Therapeutic Garden: Ward 17 Courtyard Improvement Team." http://www.southwestyorkshire.nhs.uk/about/theraputicgarden/gardenproject.ppt

Southern Cross University. (December 2001). "Natural and Complementary Medicine: Medicinal Plant Garden." Southern Cross University: Schools and Colleges. http://www.scu.edu.au/schools/ncm/garden/

Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. "Dunedin Garden for the Visually Impaired." http://www.tbrpc.org/livable/garden/

Ulrich, Roger S. (1991). Effects of interior design on wellness: Theory and recent scientific research. Journal of Healthcare Interior Design: Proceedings from the third symposium on healthcare interior design (pp. 97-110). California: National Symposium on Healthcare Design, Inc.

Ulrich, Roger S. (1981). Natural Versus Urban Scenes: Some Psychophysiological Effects. Environment and Behavior, 13 (5), 523-553.

Ulrich, Roger S. (2000). Evidence-Based Garden Design for Improving Health Outcomes. Investigating the Relationship between Health and the Landscape: Therapeutic Conference Report. University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum.

University of Illinois Extension. "Between Gardeners: Enabling Gardens." http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/macon/garden/0203b.html

This report was developed by Molly Furgeson, student, University of Minnesota Department of Horticultural Science.

©2006 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. Trouble seeing the text? | Contact U of M | Privacy

The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

Gardening for people of all ages, abilities and lifestyles. If I

could have but one wish it would be to garden forever.

ArticlesHorticulture Therapy -

Create an Enabled Garden Practical tips and techniques by

Joyce Schillen to continue a favorite activity such as

gardening.

Horticulture Therapy Garden columnist, Jerry Filipski, describes the wonderful benefits of this new "growing" profession.

Horticulture Therapy: Cultivate your health with

gardening Master gardener, Marion Owen, gives us tips for

staying fit in the garden.

The Aids Awareness Garden Carla Allen tells the story of a woman's garden planted for

her brother.

Layering Bulbs How to maximize a small garden to get

blooms from early spring through August.

Hands in the Garden REACH for the Rainbow has developed a very successful gardening project at summer

"The love of gardening is a seed once sown never dies ..." Gertrude Jekyll

Most gardeners want to continue to garden as long as they possibly can. Lifestyle changes, age, infirmity, work, financial circumstances all have an impact on how much or how well we can garden.

Garden Forever is a place to read about how other people manage to continue to garden. In articles about the soothing effect of gardening, gardens in the sky (roof top gardens), overcoming health problems, gardens that shine in the evening, programs that help people, children, the elderly, the physically challenged, plus practical tips and ideas, we'll explore and highlight ways to help us all Garden Forever.

Most Recent Articles

Meet the Martins

Age Defying Gardening! The Importance of Organic Farming!

Preserving Your Food From the Garden by Canning

Learn to Grow! The Fun of Gardening For Children

Water Conservation in the Garden

Winter Growing Abilities: Winter Gardening

Bobbing for Tomatoes! - How to

TipsSpringing into the

gardening season – it's a stretch! Stretching tips from the Ontario Chiropractic Association.

7 Steps to Happy Herb GrowingA balcony herb garden is rewarding and doesn't have to be a lot of work.

My Aching Back Save your back from too much stress

Take it Easy Plan ahead to make gardening a little easier on your body.

Watering Containers Container gardens require special watering techniques

Weeding Tips Any plant that grows where you don't want it is a weed

BulbsYour table is ready Mr. Squirrel.

Weighty Matters Watch those extra pounds when planting containers

Tools Don't blame your tools. Take good care of them.

camps for children and adolescents with developmental delays and physical disabilities.

Kids Take Time to Grow "Children with various disabilities find satisfaction and meaning in

the magical transformation of seeds into snow peas ..." Nancy

Wood, Art Therapist

Queen Anne's Lace More than just a pretty weed by Carla

Allen

Gardening for the Senses / The Sensual Garden How to

plant gardens that stimulate taste, smell, touch, and hearing by Larry

Caplan.

Public Enemy Number One Humor in the garden. David Hobson takes a look at the lighter

side of gardening.

Gardening Tips for People with Impaired Vision Although French Impressionist

painter Claude Monet "eventually lost most of his vision, he did not

stop painting, nor did he ever lose his love of gardening". Larry

Caplan

Watering Tricks If you plant them, you must water them. Ways to make watering easier on

the gardener while still maintaining healthy plants by Lisa

Erickson. The Evening Garden

Inspiration for gardeners who work all day at home or in an

office. Enjoy gardens that glow in the moonlight.

Loft Gardens For urban gardeners a look at how modern loft living combines with gardens in the sky on balconies and roof

Grow Juicy Tomatoes in Your Garden

Gardening Herbs For All Ages

A Garden for Everyone

From Flowers to Flags: An Introductory Lesson to State Symbols

Garden Invaders: A Guide to Identify and Rid your Garden of Plant Viruses

Landscape Gardening Resource: Architecture, Themes and Terms

The Cottage Garden

Parent’s Resource Guide to Gardening With Children

Allergy-Free Wedding FlowersFlowers that won’t make brides or their bridesmaids start sneezing and sniffling right in the middle of the wedding by Thomas Leo Ogren.

Enjoy Gardening at Any Age That first delicious spring day is a temptress, luring all avid gardeners out of their winter doldrums and calling them out to play. ... By Monday morning the stiffness sets in, aches and pains in long forgotten muscles remind them that they are not as fit as they used to be.

Asthma Friendly GardensThomas Leo Ogren offers 12 tips to make your garden an asthma friendly place.

First Aid for Hanging BasketsWe started with such good intentions but with holidays and our busy lives, those beautiful hanging baskets we nurtured in the spring are starting to look pretty neglected. Jackie Carroll tells us how to revive a dried out hanging basket before it's too late.

Grow better, feel better, garden longer The author of The Holistic Garden, Creating Spaces for Health and Healing, Karen York, helps us understand why

Hanging Moss Baskets Have beautiful baskets like the ones in Victoria, BC.

Tips for people-friendly plantings Adapt your garden to your lifestyle.

Planting Trees and ShrubsTips to make sure your plant investment continues to grow.

Gardening Supplies and Storage

Gardening Hand Tools

Lawn and Garden Tools

Best Garden Supply

Plastic Sheds

Outdoor Storage Sheds

Metal Storage Sheds

Lanscaping Tools

Garden Tool Storage

Wooden Sheds

Best Garden Sheds

Building A Shed

Lawn Edgers

Steel Storage Sheds

gardens.

Hanging Moss Baskets Step-by-step guide on how to plant beautiful Victoria-style

hanging moss baskets.

Gardens, Plants and You - A Guide to BotanyA simple

guide to botany, the science of plants.

Gardener Resources: How To Care For An Apple Tree A great guide on how to

take care of an apple tree.

Gardener Education: Plants Toxic To Pets What plants to watch out for when you've got pets in the area.

gardening is good for us and how to keep doing it.

Herbs: Fragrance, flavour and fun for container gardens "For a new adventure with your balcony or windowsill Eden, try planting an old-fashioned herb garden." by Mary Fran McQuade

Jacksonville's Gardens of Peace "With a firm conviction that dreams are more powerful than fear, love more powerful than hate and peace more powerful than war, community members are gathering together to create "Gardens of Peace" in Jacksonville Florida." by Liz Peak

Pruning Basics - Comfort First When it come time to prune, check out the latest and best methods to make it as painless as possible.

Spring Cleaning, Backyard Style. Seven time-saving tips to get your backyard ready for summer.

Gardening, a way of lifeGarden writer, Mary Fran McQuade, tells us how to continue to enjoy one of life's purist pleasures.

How to plan a garden rightThings to consider when setting up a garden by David Kurshel

Landscaping to Eliminate Allergenic Mold Spores Thomas Leo Ogren, the author of Allergy-Free Gardening, tells us about things we can do in our gardens and landscapes to eliminate allergy-causing mold spores.

Creaking through my Garden Garden writer, Carol Wallace, on turning fifty starts to re-plan how she will continue gardening into her twightlight years.

Gardening across the generations Ways for grandparents to enjoy gardening with busy young grandchildren. By Beverley Mitchell

Allergy-Free in The Rose Garden "The most common allergen is pollen, and this we can largely control." By Thomas Leo Ogren

Whatchamacallits and ThingamajigsUnusual names for common tools. By Carla Allen

Sandy - A Golden Gardener In memory of a golden gardening companion. By Beverley Mitchell

The Wolfhound WreathA very special story that celebrates the joy of giving. By Carla Allen

Destined for DecorationsFred & Sharon Randall use their gourds and natural materials to extend the short-lived beauty of autumn. By Carla Allen.

Garden Forever: Ultimate Gardening Resource

We at Garden Forever have a great love for gardening that we want to share with every visitor to our website. The resources in this site were carefully created and compiled to bring out the gardener in every one of us. Come and discover the wonderful world of gardening in Garden Forever!

Gardening in General

There is more to gardening than meets the eye. To start, let us explain first what gardening is. In an article written by Mary Fran McQuade, that can be found on this website, she describes gardening as one of life’s purest pleasures. We certainly agree with her! Being the resource hub for information about gardening, we understand that it is not just a simple hobby. It is a way to showcase your creativity by decorating your garden and at the same time, encourages a healthy lifestyle. Garden Forever takes pride in promoting articles about gardening. Among the articles that can be found here are the soothing effects of gardening, overcoming health problems, gardens in the sky and many more. We also have different tips to offer like weeding tips, tips for people-friendly plantings, 7 steps to happy herb growing and much more. There are also helpful resources on garden tools, garden supplies and garden sheds. These resources are being provided to help you Garden Forever.

Garden Tools & Garden Supplies

Like a writer with his pen, gardeners need to have the right garden tool to make their work wonderful. If one is familiar with tools in horticulture and agriculture, they might be surprised by how gardening hand tools resemble them. Garden Forever provides a selection of articles about gardening supplies. To help you get familiarized, let’s take a peek at these garden supplies:

● Shovels are one of the most common garden supplies. These are primarily used for digging and gathering dirt, soil, leaves and snow.

● Pruning shears have three types: ratchet, anvil and bypass. These are used to level hedges and create designed hedges.

● A hoe is used for making narrow furrows and to pile up soil. Its main physical feature is a square blade at the end which is attached to a long and straight wooden or metallic stick handle.

● A rake has a tooth bar fixed on a long handle that is used to collect leaves and grass.● Lawn aerators are used to aerate soil and also help grass to grow. It is interesting to

note that it also helps in increasing the fertility of soil because it encourages the breeding of soil worms. The two types of aerators are piker or core aerator.

● Spades are mainly used to dig and collect soil. However, they can also be used to provide aeration to the soil and loosen the ground.

● Pitchforks are known to look like a long handle with prongs. They are used to lift loose material like leaves or dung.

● The fork is different from the pitchfork since its handle is shorter. It is used for digging and lifting soil.

● Pruning shears have a sharp knife-like structure used to cut shrubs and branches of trees.

● Grass shears are used for cutting long grass. They are different from pruning shears because they are longer.

● A lawn mower contains blades which move in a rotating motion and are used for leveling the grass.

● Hedge trimmers can be power driven or hand driven. They are used to trim hedges.● Lawn sweepers have many different types. There are powered lawn sweepers, push

lawn sweepers and tow lawn sweepers.● A wheel cultivator aerates the soil and is used for wheel control.

Aside from providing information about gardening hand tools and other garden supplies, we match each tool with relevant links for further information. We also have a feature on landscaping tools. In this feature, we discuss basic information on commercial landscaping and provide links to where to get commercial landscaping equipment. Whether you are looking for information on a simple garden tool or a commercial landscaping tool, we provide the resources just for you!

Garden Sheds

A dedicated gardener is likely to have a large selection of tools used for gardening. To keep garden tools and supplies in order, storage sheds can be used to organize and store all your gardening equipment without taking up space in your home. Among the types of outdoor storage shed that most of us are familiar of, there are actually different types of garden sheds. Each shed has its own distinct characteristics. Here is a brief overview of some of the types of sheds Garden Forever provides information on: Wooden sheds are the most popular among the types of garden sheds. The appeal for many is the beautiful natural appearance that one can customize to blend with the garden. Wooden sheds may also have a distinct aroma like cedar and pine which some people find pleasing. The downside is that it is more expensive than getting a plastic or wooden shed. Plastic sheds are known for the value they provide for little money. Even though the price can be cheap, they are still more durable and can last longer than sheds of other materials. Plastic sheds are built to withstand harsh weather conditions. Another advantage is that they are very easy to assemble and disassemble so if you are moving, you can disassemble and assemble it at your new residence. However, for many one of the major disadvantages to plastic sheds is that they do not blend well as well with the environment as other outdoor storage shed options. The colors may also fade as time passes if the shed is not UV-protected. Metal garden sheds are usually made of aluminum, steel or iron. These metals are known to be very strong and durable. Compared to wooden or plastic sheds, it is easier to install a metal garden shed since you can just add screws to connect the roof and the walls. It is also the cheapest when compared to wooden or plastic shed. Unfortunately, a metal shed is more prone to corroding or rust. Steel sheds are recommended for their high level of security and durability as compared with other types. They are not susceptible to pest, rodent and termite attacks. They are also less

expensive than other types and can even be installed directly on the ground. However they also are not as aesthetically pleasing as wooden sheds. To know more about these types of outdoor storage sheds, you can browse through the articles listed on the website. Each type has its own detailed article with accompanying links. We also have a useful article on building your own shed. These articles on garden sheds will truly help you decide on what type of shed material you will buy or make. We hope that you will enjoy browsing the Garden Forever website. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. We would gladly assist you with any inquiry you might have.

Popular Gardening Pages

All articles and images are the property of Garden Forever. Please respect the copyright of these articles and information. Contact Garden Forever if you have questions.

All rights reserved. The use of any part of this publication reproduced, transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, or stored in a retrieval system, without the prior written consent of

Garden Forever is strictly forbidden.

www.gardenforever.comLast update January 20, 2010

Skip to main content

Chicago Botanic Garden

Welcome to the Chicago Botanic GardenPeek outside and you might see signs of spring coming up. The surest sign of spring at the Chicago Botanic Garden is the Antiques & Garden Fair. Buy tickets before April 10 and save 20 percent! Meanwhile, experience the hot desert's cacti and succulents in the Garden's Arid Greenhouse, or take a walk through Garden paths and see the seasons changing.

●

Keep Growing Enjoy the spring issue of our magazine.●

Register Now for Camp CBG! Monday, June 16 to Friday, August 15●

Lecture by Miles Redd Friday, April 1111 a.m.●

Lecture by Danielle Rollins Saturday, April 1211 a.m.●

Smartphone App Download our new free smartphone app to enhance your visit.●

Inspiring Nature Play in Spaces Large and Small Wednesday, May 7●

Story Time Lenhardt LibraryMondays, January 13 – May 19, 201410 – 11 a.m.●

Classes at the School Classes are available for every interest and skill level.●

Teacher Programs Enrich your teaching techniques and enliven your classroom.

April« »

S M T W T F S

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

SIGN UP FOR GARDEN E-UPDATES • RSS FEEDS • DAILY OPEN HOURS • GARDEN MAPChicago Botanic Garden • 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022 • (847) 835-5440

The Garden is smoke-free. Admission is free, parking rates apply. Contact us.

© Copyright 1997-2014 Chicago Botanic Garden. All rights reserved. Credits | Privacy PolicyOne of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County.

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

Illinois Bureau of Tourism

● Home

● About

● Got Questions?

● Buy This Cool Stuff!

● Container Gardening Message Board

● Subscribe

Container Gardening Guide

Container Gardening TipsGoogle+Pinterest

You can’t bear to toss your beloved old blue porcelain bowl set. And maybe that Michelin tire might come in handy again, so you should keep it. Although you might not use recycled porcelain bowls or apple barrels but rather terra cotta or woven pots, the simple concept of growing plants in pots or urns in addition to other objects, offers you a variety of enjoyable and creative ways to maintain and experiment with your garden.The concept of container gardening existed before Boccaccio’s Isabella planted her lover’s noggin in a pot of basil: the Egyptians and Romans likely developed the idea.Of late, container gardening’s popularity grew in southern California in the 1950s, and since then interest has escalated steadily. This brief guide is designed to facilitate decisions in planning and growing your garden in containers, since you will need to select the right containers and their ideal locations and plants.

Comments on this entry are closed.

● Pages

❍ About

❍ Getting Started with Container Gardening

❍ Container Gardening Advantages

❍ Container Gardening Tips

❍ Containers for Gardening

❍ How to Take Care of Houseplants

❍ Plants for Container Gardens

❍ List of Different Flowers for Container Gardens

❍ Bulbs for Container Gardens

❍ Edible Plants and Containers

❍ Flowers for Container Gardening

❍ Plants for Container Gardens – Herbs

❍ Shrubs and Trees for Container Gardens

❍ Vegetables and Fruit for Container Gardens

❍ Wardian Case – A Terrarium for Indoor Container Gardening

❍ Tools for Gardening

❍ Odds and Ends: Additional Things to be Planted in Container Gardens

❍ Container Gardening Links

❍ Got Container Gardening Questions?

● Recent Comments

❍ Ann on Got Container Gardening Questions?

❍ Jamie on Got Container Gardening Questions?

❍ lars on Got Container Gardening Questions?

❍ lars on Got Container Gardening Questions?

❍ lars on Got Container Gardening Questions?

● Categories

❍ No categories

●

Get smart with the Thesis WordPress Theme from DIYthemes.

WordPress Admin

Home Gardeners' Corner Kids' Garden Sustainable Garden Commercial & Architecture

Innovate to Conserve Natural Resources Master Garden Products 1-800-574-7248 Home About Us Showroom & Trade Shows Product Care & Support Contact Us Search Shopping Cart Check Out Your Account

Order, Shipping & Payment Policy

Thank you to all the dealers, retailers, garden centers, and businesses who have visited our booth at the San Francisco International Gift Show, Seattle

Northwest Flower & Garden Show and the Oregon Yard and Patio Show

Our garden products consist of a few different categories with a variety of designs and sizes to choose from. Our line of indoor and outdoor products include planter boxes, fences, garden accents, furniture, commercial display products, and accessories. Our gorgeous and naturally rot resistant white cedar and plantation teak wood products make great outdoor and indoor garden decor for both the residential and commercial.

Although bamboo is classified as grass, they are as elegant and as strong as the most durable types of wood. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable material, as the stems can be harvested repeatedly from the same plant for 2-5 years. There are many different species of bamboo, several of which are used in buildings and outdoor structures. Our bamboo line of products include outdoor gardening, fencing, furniture, commercial display products, and bamboo building materials.

Bentwood material like the willow branches and peeled willow canes used in our willow garden products, grows quickly and are individually hand collected by craftspeople from local forests and plantations. Willow sticks are a rapidly renewable material and are harvested in a sustainable way from managed willow plantations. Our classic peeled willow products are constructed with carbonized, steam dried willow sticks which will resist decay in harsh outdoor environments. Its light mahogany color and clean wood-like character makes them great for outdoor gardening.

Natural materials like moss, sea grass, rattan, and water hyacinth, are from sustainable resources. We use them to make our indoor planter containers and our basket line.

Additionally, in the spirit of recycling to conserve our natural resources, we introduced our oak wood wine barrel line. We recycled these wonderful premium French and American oak barrel staves into an elegant, one of a kind, product line for both the indoors and outdoors, while still retaining the beautiful and fine taste of the aged winery in which it originated form.

Related Products

Bamboo garden products Willow garden products

Green and Ecologically Sustainable

We want to incorporate the natural beauty of wood into our line of products. We acquire our cedar and teak wood material from proven sources which are certified to practice responsible woodland management.

Willow grows rapidly on non-prime agricultural land and on poor drainage soil. They bring subsistence resources to farmers and jobs to villages. Our newest addition of classic willow garden products brings more choices and styles to our willow garden line.

The bamboo's ability to grow on marginal and waste lands along with their rapid growth, low-cost extraction, processing, and multi-functionality, gives them an important role as a necessary resource for rural communities. Rapidly renewable resources like bamboo can grow even on steep hills, which in then can prevent erosions and conserve soil, as well as reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere to help slow down global warming.

We also recycle used oak wood wine barrels into a series of unique planters, furniture, and other uses for your home garden.

Bamboo Plantation Willow Plantation

We are proud members of

Botanical Garden Conservation International Association of Zoological Horticulture Public Garden Association NAJGA

Our private policy for your protection

Copyright 2001. Master Garden Products. All Rights Reserved.Send mail to here with questions or comments about this web site.Last modified: April 04, 2014

Fine Gardening Magazine Shop for books & more

Stay Connected with Fine Gardening

●

●

●

●

Login | Create an Account FGplus Access Page

Fine Gardening

10 Unusual Annuals1234

New in BlogsDiana's garden in OntarioBetsy's garden in New Yorkiframe

Annuals, Perennials, Shrubs, Trees, Grasses, Vines, Bulbs, Ground Covers, Container Plants

OR Browse All Plants

Featured this week...

6 Trees That Always PleaseYou can't go wrong by planting one of these fool-proof picks.

All About Starting SeedsFind out about what to start from seed, where to get seeds, how to start seeds; seed-starting equipment, and caring for your seedlings.

Beautiful Kitchen GardensTurn edible plantings into works of art with four design strategies.

Featured: Earliest Blooms

Primula vulgaris hose-in-hose variety

('Hose-in-hose' cowslip, primrose)

Galanthus nivalis (common snowdrop)

Plant Showcase - from our advertisers

Magazine extras

Campanulas You Can't Live Without - The Full ListHere are Richard Hawke's top picks and why he likes them in "Campanulas you can't live without" in the May/June 2014 issue of Fine Gardening (#157).

Plant ID's: Lessons learned from a 25-year-old gardenTwo seasoned gardeners impart words of wisdom to help you avoid their mistakes and share in their successes. Here are Plant ID's that accompany the story in Fine Gardening May/June Issue #157.

2013 Container Design Challenge Results: Monochromatic ColorLast spring, we challenged our readers to design a container that featured a single color. Here is the winner, and many of the finalists!

How to Build a Single Stem TrellisIndeterminate tomatoes will grow forever if frost, extreme drought, or some other thing doesn't kill them. Pruning can keep that endless growth in check, but you first need to choose a means of support for your plants.

All magazine extras

Gardening Products

● Gardener's Best Flower Fertilizer, 5 lbs.

$13.95

● Noodlehead Sprinkler

SALE $16.99

Mole MaxMole Max

$18.95

Felco Pruner HolsterFelco Pruner Holster

$11.95

Manual Water TimerManual Water Timer

$19.95●

Bon-Neem Concentrate, 1 pint

Bon-Neem Concentrate, 1 pint

$19.95next

See More Products

Need information on gardening products and services? Visit our new Advertiser Marketplace!

Fine Gardening Over the Fence Forum | Plants, Garden Design, Edibles - Fine Gardening

Need to find a seed source? A tool? Advice on your plants? Dig in!

Visit the Over the Fence Discussion

Recent Discussions:

Kitchen Designer London

Fitted Kitchens UK

Stilhaus Kitchens Complaints

Fine Gardening

● Plant Guide● Garden Design● Container Gardening

● Gardening How To● Gardening Videos● Blogs on Gardening● Gallery● Forum

● Fine Gardening Magazine● Fine Gardening Magazine Subscription● Fine Gardening Magazine Renewal● Fine Gardening Magazine Gift Subscription

● Fine Gardening Media Kit

● Fine Gardening Books and DVDs

● Fine Gardening on PlantersPlace.com

vegetable gardener

● Grow Vegetables● Growing Tomatoes● Organic Gardening● How to Compost● Garden Projects

● Vegetable Gardening Magazine

FineGardening.com and VegetableGardener.com are part ofthe Taunton Home and Garden Network

FineHomebuilding.com

GreenBuildingAdvisor.com

FineCooking.com

FineWoodworking.com

StartWoodworking.com

ThreadsMagazine.com

CraftStylish.com

Small BuysTaunton's self service advertising program. See how you can advertise on our sites for as little as $50.

Taunton Home | Books & Videos | Contact Us | Product recall information

Privacy Policy | Copyright Notice | Taunton Guarantee | User Agreement | About Us | Work for Us | Contact Us | Advertise | Press Room | Customer Service | Subscriber Alert

The Taunton Press

© 2014 The Taunton Press, Inc., Part of Taunton’s Women’s Network. All rights reserved.

Using the proper tool is a vital part of successful gardening. Every gardener knows that, without proper tools, no garden will give you the success you desire. In adapting the garden to the needs of every gardener, a variety of tools are available. The tools discussed here are available at a variety of stores, as well as online at various websites. Whatever style of tool you choose, there are a few universal pointers that will help you as you garden:

● Use tools with the right size grip - To find the right fit, make a circle with your index finger and thumb, that is the size the grip of your tools should be

● Try to find tools with a depression or ridge in the handle for you thumb to rest on, this will keep your hand in the proper alignment

● Use tools with longer handles to cut down on the need to bend over or kneel● Keep tools sharp and in good condition to conserve energy● Use the lightest weight tool possible to complete tasks● Work to keep your back straight and your joints in neutral positions to prevent joint stress● Use tools with a soft, pliable handle for easier gripping● Use nonslip surfaces so not to waste energy gripping tools too tightly

Ergonomic Tools:Ergonomic tools are designed to keep the body in neutral positions. This lessens the amount of stress on joints and allows you to work longer and exert less energy. Ergonomic tools generally are made with large, soft handles. This allows you to get a better grip on the tool. In addition, ergonomic tools have a textured, no slip handle, which also allows for a better grip. The tool should also have a depression or ridge on top of the tool for your thumb to rest against. This keeps your hand and wrist in a neutral position as you garden.

Enabling Tools:Enabling garden tools are specially designed for disabled gardeners. They are specially designed to use less energy and to help keep the body in proper alignment. Some common enabling tools are pistol grip handles, telescopic tools, arm and wrist braces and Sure Grip tools.

Adapted Tools:Adapting garden tools is the cheapest way to modify your tools. It doesn't necessarily involve the purchase of any new tools and is especially useful if you have a particular tool that you truly enjoy using, but are not able to use lately due to disability. Almost anything can become an adapted tool. Below you will find some tips and tricks on how to create your own adapted tools. But don't let your imagination stop there, be creative!

Seeding and Planting Tips

● Use a length of PVC pipe and a funnel to plant larger seeds.● Place small seeds in a spice jar and sprinkle them onto the garden.● Consider purchasing a special seeder, such as a Sow Easy Seed Sower.● Put seeds into gelatin blocks and then drop them on the ground, the heat of the sun will melt the

gelatin leaving the seeds behind to grow.

Tools

● Use baseball tape wound around the handle of your tool to create a larger surface area to grip.● Create a PVC pipe handle by heating an appropriate length and diameter piece of PVC pipe to

235 degrees in the oven **BE CAREFUL: the PVC will be hot*. Slide the pipe onto the handle of your tool and gently squeeze to create a firm grip.

● Purchase bicycle grips and slide onto the ends of tool handles.● Use foam pieces to enlarge the size of the handles on tools.

Being sure your plants have ample water is one of the cardinal rules of gardening. But watering a garden can create some unique challenges for those with disabilities. Hoses are heavy to carry; and once in place, often seem to get in the way. They are often difficult to roll up after use and, when left out, create a tripping hazard. Hoses often require considerable hand strength to use effectively. Despite this, there are some easy modifications that can be done to make watering your plants easier and safer and allow you to more fully enjoy your garden.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Watering Related Websites

● Watering the Vegetable Garden

● Watering Gardens

Grip Tips

● Use gloves with sticky surface.● Build up handle to make it fatter by using bicycle grips, foam, or pipe insulation

wrap.● Support the wrist with cock-up splints; think about enabling garden tools that are

ergonomically designed with wrist support.● Use splints, supports, or assistive devices whenever possible, but ONLY after

consulting with your physician or therapist.● Use a universal cuff to hold garden tools.● Use smaller lightweight garden tools; use a reacher for picking up and planting.

Reach Tips

● Extend the reach by lengthening handle of your garden tools by using PVC pipe. In an oven heat PVC pipe at 325 for 5 minutes, quickly fit PVC pipe to garden tool, and let cool for several minutes. Safety tip: Use caution when handling PVC pipe after heating because it will be hot!

● Use AMES or PRINTO extended handles or child size garden tools.

Raised Bed Garden Tips

● Gardening is easier on your body.● More accessible and eliminates bending and stooping.● Customize the garden to fit your needs.● Great for gardeners who lack space or physical ability.● Can provide increased visibility for persons with low vision.● Raised beds and containers should be no more than 4 feet in diameter and width.● Keep a 20 to 28 inch range and 2 to 2 1/2 feet height.● For more information on raised bed gardening contact your local Extension Service

or Master Gardeners.

Vertical Wall Garden Tips

● Wall gardens can be supporting structures, fences, walls, trellises, container trellises, arbors, netting’s, or strings

● For additional information on vertical wall garden contact your local Extension

Service or Master Gardeners.

Hanging Baskets Tips

● Can make own pulley system or use any variety of retractable hangers.● Use extended handle hose for watering.● For additional information on hanging baskets contact your local Extension Service

or Master Gardeners.

Container Garden Tips

● Can be used for flowers, greenery, or even vegetables.● Provide the gardener with a lot of options.● Any vessel is suitable for container gardening if it has drainage.● Provides more stability.● Provides an opportunity to garden on patios, porches, balconies, decks, and even

windowsills.● For recommendations on container garden tips contact your local Extension Service

or Master Gardeners.

Pathway Tips

● Should be level and smooth.● Ramps and other grades should not exceed 5 percent.● An accessible width will depend upon who is using pathway.● Should have clear beginning and ending.● Textured surface for traction and orientation and contrasting colors and textures.● Turf is cheap and cool but requires maintenance. Being soft is not user friendly to

wheelchairs. Also, turf will die in high traffic areas. One solution, mix it with concrete blocks or paving stones.

● Wood chips, grass, mulch, compacted soil, crushed limestone, and gravel are too soft and need replacement. BUT, will cushion falls.

● Hard paving surfaces meet pathway requirements, but will not cushion falls and can be expensive. Can use concrete, asphalt, power block, patio block (stepping stones) brick, flagstone, or wood.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Gardening from a Wheelchair Websites

● HandHelpers.com● Thrive● Wheelchair Gardening

Gardening can be a very enjoyable activity for persons of all abilities but if you are too tired to garden after hauling your tools around, the enjoyment you would get from it becomes a chore. Garden tools can be heavy as well as bulky, but there are solutions, which will allow you to transport your garden tools safely and easily and still have enough energy left to work in your garden. The following are some ideas for ways to transport your tools, but be creative and find whatever works best for your needs and abilities:

● Use an old golf bag with wheels on it to carry long handled tools.● Find a small canvas bag to carry hand tools.● Purchase a sled and pull tools along.● Make use of a wheelbarrow to transport fertilizer and soil.● Use a wagon to pull tools to gardening locations.● Place a decorative mailbox in your garden and store tools there, out of the rain.● Don't be afraid to ask for help if an object is too heavy or too cumbersome for you to lift.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Transporting Garden Tools Websites

● Choosing and Using Carts● Thrive Using Gardening to

Change Lives● Wheelbarrows and Garden Carts

Raised Bed Types

Raised Ground BedsRaised ground beds are only 8-10 inches in height. These beds are especially suited for children with physical disabilities or adults who prefer to work close to the ground. Ground beds are also used to grow more permanent deep-rooted plants.

Deep Raised BedsDeep raised beds can be built at a height and width that will provide the disabled gardener easy access from a seated position. They can be built of virtually any material and can be permanent or temporary structures, depending on the needs and desires of the gardener. A border or edge wide enough for a person to sit upon can be helpful for semi-ambulatory individuals. Raised beds can be built in any shape, although most are built in a rectangle.

Terracing and Retaining WallsTerracing and retaining walls are two ways to put sloped areas of the garden to good use. A retaining wall can be made to the height needed for the individual gardener. Ground space next to the wall needs to be easily accessible to the gardener. Walls are usually made of brick or stone. Terracing involves a series of small retaining walls or raised ground beds forming steps. The retaining wall and terraced garden can give the advantages of both raised beds and ground beds.

Elevated BedsElevated beds are shallow beds, which are raised off the ground on legs. These benches are especially good for gardeners who use wheelchairs because they allow the individual to get their legs under the bench, giving them a comfortable work space. The height from ground level to the bottom of the bed should be as low as is comfortable for the individual. Thirty inches is usually appropriate for most adults. The bed should stand at least eight inches deep and is usually made of wood.

Construction Materials

Material Advantages Disadvantages

WoodEasiest material to work with; fits well esthetically into any environment.

Treated wood can contain chemicals that can damage plants; can be expensive; tends to rot.

StoneBlends well into most environments; large selection available

May need contractor to construct wall due to weight and skill needed; usually permanent; can be abrasive.

Concrete

Very adaptable; can be pre-molded or poured on site; colors and textures can be blended well into urban environments.

Must have appropriate foundation; pouring may require a contractor; can be abrasive.

Cinder BlocksRelatively easy to work with; cheap; holes are adaptable as planters.

Not very appealing esthetically; large and bulky; soil dries rapidly and requires frequent watering.

BricksCan be most esthetically pleasing of all materials; available in variety of colors.

Brick-layer may be needed to construct bed; expensive; tend to be permanent.

Salvage Cheap; possibly free. Can be abrasive; safety issues.

Terra CottaVery attractive; can be inexpensive; smooth surfaces tend to be less abrasive

Tends to be very heavy.

Standard Dimensions for Raised Beds

Wheelchair Semi-Ambulatory Ground

Height 2 - 2.5 feet 2.5 - 3 feet 1/2 - 1 feet

Width (One-Sided) 2 feet 2 feet 2 feet

Width (Two-Sided) 3 - 4 feet 4 feet 4 feet

Diameter (Circle) 3 - 4 feet 4 feet 4 feet

Customer Service E-mail Sign Up Order Status Sign In | Register

DETAILS

How to Choose Trellises and Supports for Climbing PlantsBy Kathy LaLiberte

Decorative plant supports, such as these Expandable Willow Trellises, can serve as interesting focal points in the garden. Shop for Flower Trellises.

SPEND a week or two touring British flower gardens, and you'll come home with a whole new

appreciation for how climbing plants can enhance a garden. Everywhere you turn the walls are covered with roses and climbing hydrangeas; the trees and shrubs are threaded with clematis; pergolas, arches and fences are draped in honeysuckle and ivies; obelisks and tripods are woven with sweet peas, morning glories and thunbergia; passion vines, jasmine, mandevillea and bougainvillea fill pots and planters of every shape.

Here in the U.S., few gardeners take advantage of these wonderful plants. Possibly it's because so few of us have the structures to properly support them. With that in mind, here is a brief run down of the options and how you can put them to work in your own garden.

A couple things to consider first:

Jardin Flower Trellis

Whatever supports you use, make sure they are sturdy; much sturdier than you think they need to be. By the time August comes around, that trellis or tripod may be holding 50 to 100 lbs. of foliage, and having it topple in a thunderstorm is heartbreaking. Supports should be made of weatherproof materials (such as galvanized or plastic-coated wire, painted or treated wood), especially if you are planting a perennial vine.

Also think about whether you want the support—as well as the plant—to be a decorative garden feature, or if the support's only job is to show off the plant. Decorative plant supports can serve as interesting focal

points in the garden (arbors marking an entryway, an obelisk marking the end of a pathway), or can provide a sense of enclosure by screening views and/or delineating boundaries (fences, trellis panels, walls, pergolas).

And last, think about what kinds of plants you want to grow. A climbing rose requires a different type of support than a sweet pea; pole beans need a different support from a tomato or cucumber plant. To learn more about which types of supports suit which types of plants, read How Plants Climb.

Here are the choices, starting with decorative and ending with the strictly functional:

Walls: Not many of us have beautiful 10-foot-high walls of aged brick around our gardens. But you might consider growing plants on one wall of your house, the wall of an outbuilding, or the "wall" of a neighbor's fence. There are a couple options for training plants against a wall. Clinging plants like Boston Ivy, can attach themselves to almost any wall with no other support necessary. Most other plants will need to attach themselves to a wall-mounted trellis or a system of wires and eye bolts.

Jardin Rose Arch

Arches and Pergolas: These structures can add distinctive flair to your garden, no matter what the season. Design and placement are critical. Spend some time in your garden determining what style and scale structure would be compatible with your house and landscape. These structures are most often made of wood, which can be painted or stained to resist the elements. Steel and plastic versions are also available, and are a smart choice if the style suits your garden.

Wire A-Frame Trellis

Flat Trellises: These are often used to define a space or provide a sense of privacy. They may be freestanding, or can be anchored to a wall or posts. Sometime permanently located, they are also relatively easy to move around the garden if you want to try out different effects. Examples of flat trellises would be wood lattice panels, metal trellises of various kinds, and those made of plastic mesh.

Obelisks, Tripods and Teepees: Both functional and decorative, these structures add a strong vertical element that can serve as a focal point in the garden. Like exclamation points, they're most effective when not overused. Make sure the structure is tall enough to support the type of plant you want to grow. Scarlet runner beans and vigorous varieties of morning glories, for instance, want a support that's 8 to 10 feet tall; they'll quickly overpower a 4-foot tripod. Bamboo canes make inexpensive and attractive teepees for the

vegetable garden.

Nearly Invisible Netting can be used to turn nearly any surface into a climbing wall for plants. Shop for Vegetable Supports.

Fencing and Porches: There are climbers to suit almost every type of fencing you can imagine—even chain-link fences. Climbing roses look beautiful draped over a post and rail fence. When they get a little help from strings or plastic netting, sweet peas look terrific growing against a picket fence. Porch railings and banisters can be wrapped with plastic trellis netting.

Twiggy Branches: Ubiquitous in Britain, where they are usually called "pea sticks" because they are ideal for supporting sweet peas. Collect some branches about 3 to 5 feet in length, and then simply push them into the soil. The more tiny twigs, the better. Branches from shrubs often work better than trees. Why do the Brits love them so much? They're free! But they're also quick to install, almost invisible when covered with vines, and can be composted at year's end.

Cages and Freestanding Metal Supports: Most commonly used in the vegetable garden, these supports are usually long on function and short on style. What's important is that they are sturdy and made of durable materials, tall enough for the plants they'll support, are easy to store away at season's end.

Clematis 'Henryii' is happy (and looks great) scrambling up a white birch tree in my garden.

One last idea from England that's super-easy: Try growing a climber up through an existing shrub or tree. Clematis are ideal for this job. Years ago, I planted Clematis 'Henryii' at the base of a white birch. At first I had to help it up with some strings, but it quickly found its way into the branches above and every year, it puts on a stunning display with its huge white flowers. Clematis are also happy to thread their way through shrub roses and lilacs. Another plant that I often saw growing up through hedges was Tropaeolum, also known as canary creeper. If your climate is temperate enough, passion vines are also good weavers.

So don't let the Brits have all the fun. Try combining a couple of these supports with a some interesting climbing plants and let them take your garden to new heights.

GARDEN

HOME - Garage - Workshop - Office - Library - Bathroom - Living - Nursery - Spare

Utility - Kitchen - Games - Music - Garden - Kennel - SEARCH SITE

Hints and Things does not use any 1st Party cookies - more information .

PLANTSPlants are not only decorative but can also be useful as they can be used to disguise eyesores, bins, posts, walls and/or fences and, if the correct plants are chosen, can also be effective a means of security.

There are many different plants from which to choose, all with different attributes. Some are fast growing and will, therefore, provide quick cover whilst others only flourish annually.

Here are just a few suggestions of plants, their characteristics and possible uses.

Climbing plants

Fast growers for quick cover - Clematis Montana is the fastest growing of all the clematis and also one of the easiest to grow. In perfect conditions it can grow to a height of 12m (40ft). If it is cut back by about one third after the first flowering this will encourage vigorous growth. Montana prefers alkaline soil and the roots and main stem need protecting from direct sunlight.

Virginia creeper is a hardy climber with warm red foliage in Autumn. Ideally should be given a horizontal support.

Honeysuckle comes is several varieties which are vigorous and hardy, with strongly scented flowers ranging in colour from pale creamy white to bright orange red. They prefer a lightly shaded spot, well drained soil and plenty of compost.

Russian Vine is probably the fastest wall cover of all, but can easily get out of hand as it can grow 5m (16ft) in one season.

Akebia quinata is a creeper with fragrant, deep purple flowers which will happily creep up any support on a warm, sheltered wall. It quickly reaches a height of 4.5m (15ft) with a spread of 1.8m (6ft) and could eventually grow as big as 6-9m (20-30ft).

Annual creepers - if you just want a splash of colour during Summer, here are a few suggestions:-

Sweet Peas are a beautiful, perfumed, dainty climber, available in a huge range of colours. They also have the added bonus that if the blooms are picked for indoors this encourages more flowers to appear on the plant. They are easily grown from seed outside, reach a height of approximately 1.8m (6ft) but do need support.

Nasturtiums do come in climbing varieties, available in yellows, reds and oranges and are ideal to cover a hedge or left to scramble over banks etc. They can be grown from seed outside and will spread about 1.8m (6ft)

Black-eyed Susan is suitable for milder regions and has light orange flowers with deep brown centres. It can be grown from seed germinated indoors, needs a sunny sheltered spot or greenhouse and will grow to about 1.8m-3m (6-10ft) in a season.

Morning glory again is most suitable for mild areas. Available in blues, rich scarlets and purples, easily grown from seed germinated indoors and will grow to about 2.5-3m (8-10ft) high in a season.

Plants suitable to hide a wall - if you need to disguise a wall or would rather look at a plant than bricks, here's come help.

Firstly, decide which way the wall in question is facing as this is imperative to know when selecting the most suitable plant.

North facing walls - the ground in front of a north facing wall will suffer from dampness and lack of sunshine. Some suitable varieties could be Clematis hybrids, climbing Hydrangea, Ivy, winter Jasmine or Roses (e.g. 'Gloire de Dijon', 'Mme Alfred Carrière' and 'Mme Grégoire Staechelin').

South facing walls - as these get plenty of warmth and sunshine dry soil could be a problem. Try Honeysuckle, Passion Flower or annual climbers mentioned above, such as Nasturtium and Morning Glory or Ceanothus, Mexican Orange or Myrtle which are more tender plants.

East facing walls lack sunshine and sometimes suffer from cold winds. Flowering Quince and Forsythia should be suitable and most Roses would be O.K.

West facing walls are probably the best site of all and, therefore, decorative shrubs and climbers such as Magnolias, Camellias, Wisteria, Honeysuckle or Clematis Montana would be ideal.

Try our plant finder below to find the ideal plants suited to your particular garden:

©FindMePlants

Copyright © 2000-2014 Hints and Things

All Rights Reserved.

No portion of this site may be reproduced or redistributed without prior written permission from Hints and Things. All trademarks & copyrights throughout Hints and Things remain the property of their respective owners.

Hints and Things cannot be held responsible for any information given on this site nor do they necessarily agree with, or endorse, the views given by third parties.

Garden Index - Search - Contents - Contact Us - Home - Privacy and Cookie Information - Legal

Garage - Workshop - Office - Library - Bathroom - Living - Nursery - Spare Utility - Kitchen - Games - Music - Garden - Kennel

Follow us

ORGANIC MOTION : Permaculture Design

HomeContactServicesProductsPlantsPortfolioBlogWorkshops

CrEATing efficient and healthy landscapes...From concept to crEATion, Organic Motion provides services for consultation, design and implementation of home grown edible gardens. Integrating efficient strategies that result in beautiful and sustainable landscapes, from your garden to your plate...

More INFO...

Would you VALUE innovative methods & techniques to effectively grow an abundant

landscape for a garden of eating?

We design aesthetic, edible and energy efficient landscapes for North Queensland, using innovative strategies based on Permaculture. With holistic living solutions

and intelligent design, we save you both time and money. Our design strategies will harmoniously integrate your landscape into a regenerative, abundant garden, that

will provide home grown organic food.

From your garden to your plate, true health is at your doorstep!

Services

Consultation and

Design

Integrative LandscapingGarden Blitz

Sessions

Workshops

Nourishing Schools

Nursery

Products

Comprehensive design reports

including but not limited to such

landscape components listed

below:Food Forests

Kitchen Veggie Gardens

Tropical Perennial Asian Produce

GardensItalian Produce

GardensRaised Bed or No

Dig GardensCoconut Polyculture

GardensBanana Circles

Herb SpiralsChicken Tractors, systems & CoopsMarket Gardens

Water HarvestingPizza/Cob Oven

Vertical Wall Gardens

+ More...

Want to be

part of the

Organic

Motion?

"The design process, at its best, integrates the aspirations of art, science, and

culture."

- Jeff Smith

Picture

Do You Value Home Grown Organic

Food

& Sustainability?

Eating seasonally from your garden provides abundant & nutritious food, crEATing a vibrant, attractive & healthy landscape to enjoy.

Vitality, savings and sustainability can be easily achieved on a household level, with positive effects flowing outward to make a

difference on a global scale.

Example of Consultation and Landscape Design Report

We are passionate about Permaculture and believe in the power of smart

design, empowered people and local food systems and we hope you join

us!

BLOG

Follow our stories about the Organic Motion into our home grown

journey...

For Who?

We feel that permaculture design can assist all areas of community including:

● Individuals wanting to improve personal health

● Property Developers

● Urban home owners wanting landscaped gardens

● Rural property owners wanting to improve landscape, soil and diversity

● Schools - nourishment curriculum workshops & garden

implementation

● Nutritionists or health coaches

● Community groups for community garden facilitation

● Businesses aiming to improve sustainability practices

● Council for waste management strategies and community awareness

● For you!

Our Vision

To nurture the motion toward organic, localised and sustainable food systems, spreading awareness of permaculture design for healthy people and planet!

Contact Us

BlogServices

Products"Let food be thy medicine and medicine by thy food" -

Hippocrates

Gardening can be an excellent activity for children with disabilities. Caring for their own section of the garden can give children a great feeling of accomplishment as they watch their plants grow and change.

The benefits of gardening for children include:

● Improvement in fine and gross motor skills● Improved social skills● Enhanced self-esteem● Enhanced sensory perception and creativity

Gardening can be made easy and fun for children of all abilities by keeping mind a few things:

● Have drinks and snacks available● Provide small or child-sized tools for better grip● Use larger seeds for easier handling; place smaller seeds into a spice jar and sprinkle for easier

planting● Allow for frequent rest breaks● Plant plants that grow quickly and easily● Modify the garden using raised beds, containers or trellis to make gardening easier for a child

with special needs

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Gardening with Children Websites

● KinderGARDEN● KidsGardening● Children in the Garden● Building Your Own Home

Gardens

Those with visual impairments can enjoy the benefits of gardening by making a few simple adjustments to their garden's layout and their gardening techniques:

Garden Layout

● Layout the garden using as few curves as possible, using predominantly straight edges and right angles for better navigation..

● Use markers such as shrubs or trees, or a change in path color or texture to indicate changes in path direction.

● Place railings on all steps.● Make single-side access flower beds and raised beds no more than 3 feet across to allow the

gardener to reach all plants; two-sided accessible beds can be wider.● Avoid plants that have thorns and don't allow plants to overhang into the pathway.● Use sound markers such as wind chimes or moving water.

Plant Selection

● Select plants that are not overpowering in their odors.● Pick brightly colored plants for individuals with partial vision.● Group particular colors together.

Seeding

● Run a string with knots tied in it every few inches along your planting area, this allows the gardener to feel their way down the string and plant seeds at the knots.

● Use a damp finger to pick up tiny seeds and place them a few at a time on small pieces of tissue paper, place the paper in the garden and cover with dirt. The paper will quickly disintegrate, fertilizing the plants.

● Drill holes into a board at regular intervals and drop seeds into the ground through the board.

Tools

● Purchase or paint your tools bright colors to make them easier to find.● Use one-handed versions of tools whenever possible, freeing the other hand to feel the plant.

● Keep tools in a bag that you can carry with you as you move around the garden.● Use one handed carts to transport tools and attach a radio or other sound making device to them

to allow them to be easier located.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Visually Impaired Gardening Websites

● Garden Design for Visually Impaired

● Gardening Tips for the Visually Impaired

● Thrive● HandHelpers.com

Gardening Hints for People with Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common diseases affecting adults in America today. Gardening can be an excellent treatment for this painful and often debilitating disease. People who have arthritis and garden maintain better flexibility in their joints, a larger range of motion and a enjoy better quality of life than what they did before taking up this calming hobby. As with any activity, there are a few basic tips and techniques that can allow you to better enjoy your time spent gardening:

● Warm up your joints before beginning to garden, do some light stretching to reduce soreness later on.

● Keep tools and watering sources near your garden to cut down on extra steps and conserve your energy.

● Garden at times when you feel the strongest.● Employ the use of raised beds or container gardens.● Use proper tools and keep them in good condition.● Use the largest muscle group possible to complete a task, for example, when carrying a bag of tools,

place the bag on your forearm and let the large muscles of your arm do the work instead of carrying it with your hand.

● Pace yourself.● Use a stool or knee pad when working on or near the ground to protect your knees.● Wear gloves to protect your hands.● Change positions frequently to avoid becoming stiff.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Gardening with Arthritis Websites

● Gardening & Arthritis● Gardening with Arthritis● HandHelpers.com

If you have limited strength, mobility, or trouble getting around the garden, try some of the following tips for easier gardening.

● Put hanging baskets on pulleys so that they can be easily lowered for maintenance.● When possible use lightweight pots for the patio or balcony. If using clay try having

them set on a platform with wheels so that you can easily move them around when needed.

● If you have a large garden and are always forgetting things, try getting a few inexpensive tools and putting them in a plastic-type container (safe from the elements) near the bottom of the garden. This will save steps and allow you to prune and weed as you go.

● Try using a mailbox to hold small hand tools. There are great decorative mailboxes on the market that will add charm to the garden.

● Place stools, garden chairs or benches in the garden so that you can rest often.● You can buy a garden cart to carry long handled tools but a plastic garbage pail on

wheels works just as well and is somewhat cheaper. The wheels are adjustable on the back so they will stay in one place when you park it. The tools are where you need them and they don’t fall.

● If your arms and hands are weak, use lightweight tools. There are many sturdy tools on the market, look for the ones made from nylon reinforced with fiberglass that is virtually indestructible.

● Hand tools with larger grip are easier to hang on to. You can enlarge or soften the handle by adding foam or a bicycle grip.

● Gloves are also good for griping, particularly when they have a ribbed surface.● Have a hose holder part way into the garden so you don’t have to carry it the entire

way.● Paint the ends of wooden handles a bright color so that when you drop them in the

garden they are easy to see.● Keep garden tools sharp to reduce the effort required doing the job.● Vary your tasks. A full day of pruning will give any gardener blisters. Remember

it’s not a race.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Gardening Tips Websites

● GardenWeb.com● National Gardening Association● Rose Gardening Tips● HandHelpers.com

Many people today suffer from heart problems, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, or lung problems, such as asthma. Living with one of these health concerns does not mean that you must give up your gardening hobby. On the contrary, gardening can be an excellent source of exercise. By being cautious and following a few guidelines, people suffering from these problems can easily reap the benefits of gardening.

● Work slowly, don't overdo it.● Warm up with some light stretching before beginning to garden.● Avoid reaching for things, as this expends a lot of energy.● Whenever possible, sit down to work.● Avoid heavy lifting of objects.● Try to work in the cooler parts of the day during the hot summer months, this means early in the

morning or late in the afternoon.● Whenever possible, use tools that require you to exert less energy.● Keep tools and watering items as close to the garden as possible.● If you suffer from asthma or sever allergies, pay attention to the allergen counts and try to stay

inside on days they are high.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever ● Chicago Botanic Garden

Heart and Lung Problems

● American Lung Association ● Gardening Strategies for People

With Lung and Heart Problems ● Heal Your Heart Gardening

Most Common Injuries:

● Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ● Tennis Elbow ● Bursitis of Shoulder, Hips, and/or Knees ● Tendinitis

A common factor in all injuries is inflammation of the tissue. Synovial tissue in carpal tunnel syndrome, muscle tissue in tennis elbow, tissue surrounding muscles and tendons as they pass over bony prominence in bursitis, and tendon sheaths or tendons in tendinitis.

Cause of Inflammation

● Overuse ● Repeated pressure on a site ● Strenuous repeated motions ● Continuous forceful gripping ● Acute trauma

Basic Principles of Prevention of Repetitive Motion Injury

● Work load should be close ● Use best ergonomic position possible ● Match the tool to the job ● Decrease resistance ● Spread the load over multiple joints or larger joints ● Pace the activity

HOW TO APPLY PREVENTION PRINCIPLES TO GARDENING!!

STRETCH - STRETCH - STRETCH - STRETCH

Remember, just as in exercising, you need to prepare your joints and muscles for activity. Any stretching or warming-up exercise program will work. If you experience stiffness in the morning, take a warm shower or bath to loosen up before heading out to the garden.

Work LoadIf you cannot get down to the work load, bring the work load UP to you. When standing, do not over reach and maintain an upright posture. The longer the handle the more force it takes to use and lift that garden tool. To decrease this effect, lighten the weight of the tool, use only sharp tools, and match the tool to the job.

Ergonomic PositionPosition yourself so the muscles can be used at their maximum efficiency. When standing, don’t lock your joints. Also, sitting in a supported squat or at 90 degrees is hard on the joints and difficult to get up from. The straighter your elbow and the farther away it is from the body, the less efficient your position. You can increase efficiency by selecting the right tool, decreasing resistance, and using multiple joints. Place thumb and index finger together, making a circle. This is your most efficient grip size.

Match the ToolOne-purpose tools are generally the best, when you cannot easily carry around several tools. Limit yourself to two or three tools.

Decrease ResistanceKeep tools sharp. Small work surface, i.e., pointed hoe, narrow rake or shovel allows tool to move with less resistance. Use the most efficient grip size and no slip surface to reduce force of grip required. Power, if used safely, is wonderful. Variety of watering systems eliminates the need to drag a hose. Plant in a peat moss mixture instead of soil.

Spread the LoadYou are spreading the load by putting an extra handle on a shovel, extending a hand tool onto the forearm, turning a sprayer from a hand-held carry to a backpack, or using a two-wheel garden cart instead of a wheel barrel.

Pace the ActivityThe risk of injury is greater when you forget to stop and take breaks. Take your time, gardening is not a race. By working slowly, sitting back, and reflecting on the beauty that surrounds you allows your muscles time to recover. Break a heavy load up by stopping every 30 minutes and doing a light activity. Be organized, reduce the number of trips needed for supplies.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever ● Chicago Botanic Garden

Repetitive Motion Issues Websites

● Repetitive Motion Disorders: What are they?

● Repetitive Motion Injuries ● HandHelpers.com

Gardening is America’s favorite leisure outdoor activity, enjoyed by more than 78 million people, according to the National Gardening Association. For most of us, gardening provides a welcome sojourn in the natural world, a sanctuary that promises relief from the challenges of life. Yet many feel the need to give it up as they become less physically able. Gardening can enrich the life of the senior gardener in many ways - physically, mentally, and spiritually. The following tips for modifying tools and gardening techniques can make all the difference for the senior gardener.

● Paint your garden tools with a bright color. This will enable the senior gardener to easily locate tools.

● Purchase seed and seed tape for easier handling and planting.● Grow plants that heighten the sense of touch or smell.● Use a vertical garden or trellis. This allows the senior gardener to plant and

weed without stooping or bending.● Build and design raised beds that provide a place to sit and garden.● Try using a stool, chair, or bench to avoid constant stooping or squatting.● Use the right length tools. Long handled or curved handled tools provide

better grips and more leverage.● For safety sake, garden early in the morning or late in the day. Avoid being

out between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Drink plenty of decaffeinated fluids to prevent dehydration. Also, allow time for breaks in the shade.

● Wear lightweight clothing, long sleeved shirt, eye protection, sunscreen, a big hat to shade face, and gardening gloves.

Accessible Gardening Websites

● Accessible Gardening● Healing Gardens● Garden Forever● Chicago Botanic Garden

Gardening for Seniors Websites

● Gardening with the Elderly● Easier Gardening for Seniors● HandHelpers.com

Gardening with a bad back has its problems. However, the good news is, with simple tools modifications you can still garden. Garden tools can be adapted to alleviate the strain and stress on your back.

Gardeners with back problems should keep in mind the following suggestions:

● Keep your back straight while digging.● Use long-handled tools.● Use handle extenders to improve leverage.● Try to customize your own gardening and planting devices.● Garden in accessible garden containers:

Raised beds are large bottomless boxes that contain soil and permit drainage below.

Boxes and containers of various sizes provide successful ways to grow vegetables and flowers. Be sure to pick a container that will allow for healthy root development.

Hanging baskets can create planting space where none exists. Or, combined with a container garden, can give a double-decker growing area. Also, you can make your own pulley system by using steel hooks or rings clamped/mounted to railings or walls.

Table planters are shallow soil-filled trays supported on legs. Remember, 27 inches is needed for knee clearance to comfortable allow chair to fit underneath.

Deep boxes, barrel, and tubs can be used to create small raised beds for flowers, vegetables, and herbs. These containers work well for annual plants.

● Use a stool, heavy duty 5 gallon bucket, small folding chair, or bench when you need to rest.● Grow flowers, plants, vegetables, or edibles that are easy to manage without much stooping or

manual labor. (gardenhobbies.com)● Plot out your garden tasks. Avoid numerous trip and don’t overload yourself with a lot of

tools or garden equipment. (garden.org)● Make hauling your garden tools easier by using a golf bag on wheels, sturdy box, apron with

large and small pockets, or basket with a variety of handles that can hold tools, plants, seeds, and other related garden supplies.

● HandHelpers.com

1. Health

About.com

Arthritis & Joint Conditions

Search

● Arthritis ● Symptoms / Diagnosis ● Treatments ● Coping ●

● Share●

Share this page on:Send to a Friend via Email

Your suggestion is on its way!

An email with a link to:

http://arthritis.about.com/od/arthritisbyanatomy/a/motiondisorders.htm

was emailed to:

Thanks for sharing About.com with others!

Most Emailed Articles

Email to a FriendEmail to a FriendEmail to a FriendEmail to a FriendEmail to a Friend

Free Arthritis & Joint Conditions Newsletter! Sign Up

Discuss in my forum

What Are Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Repetitive motion disorders affect millions of people in the United States.

By Carol Eustice

Updated May 25, 2006

See More About

● repetitive motion disorders● joint pain● muscle pain● work and disability

Repetitive motion disorders include a large group of conditions that primarily affect the soft tissues, including the nerves, tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

What Are Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Repetitive motion disorders are a family of muscular conditions that result from repeated motions performed in the course of normal work or daily activities. Repetitive motion disorders are also called:

● Cumulative Trauma Disorders● Repetitive Stress Injuries● Overuse Syndromes

Repetitive motion disorders can include:

● carpal tunnel syndrome● bursitis● tendinitis / tendonitis● epicondylitis (tennis elbow)● ganglion cyst● tenosynovitis

● trigger finger

What Causes Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Repetitive motion disorders are caused by:

● too many uninterrupted repetitions of an activity or motion● unnatural or awkward motions such as twisting the arm or wrist● overexertion● incorrect posture● muscle fatigue

Where Do Repetitive Motion Disorders Occur?

Repetitive motion disorders occur most commonly in the:

● hands● fingers● thumbs● wrists● elbows● shoulders

Repetitive motion disorders can also happen in:

● neck● back● hips● knees● feet● legs● ankles

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Repetitive motion disorders are often characterized by:

● pain● tingling

● numbness● visible swelling or redness of the affected area● loss of flexibility and strength of the affected area

For some individuals, there may be no visible sign of injury, although they may find it hard to perform easy tasks.

Over time, repetitive motion disorders can cause temporary or permanent damage to the soft tissues in the body such as the:

● muscles● nerves● tendons● ligaments

Repetitive motion disorders can also cause compression of nerves or tissue.

Who Is Affected Most By Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Generally, repetitive motion disorders affect individuals who perform repetitive tasks such as:

● assembly line work● meatpacking● sewing● playing musical instruments● computer work

Repetitive motion disorders may also affect individuals who engage in activities such as:

● carpentry● gardening● tennis

What Are The Treatment Options For Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Treatment for repetitive motion disorders usually includes reducing or stopping the motions that cause symptoms.

Repetitive motion disorder treatment options can also include:

● taking breaks to give the affected area time to rest

● adopting stretching and relaxation exercises ● applying ice to the affected area to reduce pain and swelling ● using medications such as:

❍ pain relievers ❍ corticosteriods ❍ NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

● splints may be able to relieve pressure on the muscles and nerves ● physical therapy may relieve the soreness and pain in the muscles and joints ● In rare cases, surgery may be required to relieve symptoms and prevent permanent damage.

What Is Being Done To Help Prevent Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Some employers have developed ergonomic programs to help workers adjust their pace of work and arrange office equipment to minimize problems.

What Research Is Being Done For Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Much of the on-going research on repetitive motion disorders is aimed at prevention and rehabilitation. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) funds research on repetitive motion disorders.

What Is The Prognosis For Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Most individuals with repetitive motion disorders recover completely and can avoid re-injury by:

● changing the way they perform repetitive movements● changing the frequency with which they perform them● changing the amount of time they rest between movements.

Without treatment, repetitive motion disorders may result in permanent injury and complete loss of function in the affected area.

Related Resources

● Where Does it Hurt?● Joint Pain● Joint Protection Techniques

Source: NINDS Repetitive Motion Disorders Information Page

Related Resouces - Repetitive Motion Disorders

● Where Does it Hurt?● Joint Pain● Joint Protection Techniques

Related Resouces - Repetitive Motion Disorders

● How To Protect Your Joints● The Pain Relief Quiz● The Pain Quiz: Acute vs. Chronic Pain

Related Resouces - Repetitive Motion Disorders

● Carpal Tunnel Syndrome● Bursitis● Tendinitis / Tendonitis

Related Articles

● What is a Repetitive Motion Disorder - An Explanation of the Term Repetitiv...● What Are Repetitive Stress Injuries?● What is a Musculoskeletal Disorder - An Explanation of the Term Musculoskel...● Gastrointestinal motility disorders● The Many Names for Repetitive Stress Injuries

Carol Eustice About.com Arthritis & Joint Conditions

● Sign up for My Newsletter

● Headlines ● Forum

Top Related Searches repetitive motion disorders cumulative trauma disorders repetitive stress injuries tendons ligaments ganglion cyst incorrect postureExplore Arthritis & Joint ConditionsMust Reads

● What Is Arthritis?● Symptoms of Arthritis● Diagnosis of Arthritis● Treatment of Arthritis● Arthritis Screening Quiz

Most Popular

● Arthritis Screening Quiz● Lupus Screening Quiz● Fibromyalgia Screening Quiz● Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening Quiz● Foods Not to Eat if You Have Gout

See More About:

● repetitive motion disorders● joint pain● muscle pain● work and disability

By Category

● Types of Arthritis (A-Z)● Joint Pain (Ankle to Wrist)● Symptoms / Diagnosis● Arthritis Medication Options● Treatments / Joint Surgery● Arthritis Diet / Exercise● Arthritis Pain Relief● Natural / Alternative Treatments

● Consult Doctor / Rheumatologist● Working With Arthritis / Disability● Assistive Devices / Mobility Aids● Managing Daily Living Activities● Coping Strategies for Arthritis● Inspiration and Support● Frequently Asked Questions

About.com

Arthritis & Joint Conditions

1. About.com2. Health3. Arthritis & Joint Conditions4. Joint Pain (Ankle to Wrist)5. Repetitive Motion Disorders - What Are Repetitive Motion Disorders?

Also from About.com:

● Calorie Count - Nutrition Database

● Advertise on About.com● Our Story● News● SiteMap● All Topics● Reprints● Help

● Write for About● Careers at About● User Agreement● Ethics Policy● Patent Info.● Privacy Policy

● Your Ad Choices and Cookie Policy

©2014 About.com. All rights reserved.

We comply with the HONcode standardfor trustworthy health information: verify here.

Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet

Horticulture and Crop Science

2021 Coffey Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43210-1086

Gardening With the ElderlyHYG-1642-94

Jack Kerrigan

Many changes occur as a person ages. These changes impact a person's physical, emotional and cognitive abilities as well as social roles. Gardening can be used in a therapeutic way to address these issues and improve the elderly person's physical and emotional conditions, cognitive ability and social interactions. However, many of the changes involved in aging must be addressed by modifications in gardening practices, situations and tools. Changes that occur with age are listed in the following chart as well as the impacts of the changes and the gardening adaptations that can result in continued participation.

Life changes caused by aging Impacts Gardening Adaptations

Physical

Vision: The lens thickens, yellows and becomes opaque.

Reduced clarity. Blue, violet and green harder to see. Depth perception is diminished.

Paint tools a bright color. Use larger seed or pelletized seed. Grow plants with more tactile and olfactory stimulation. Use vertical planting. Create smooth surfaced paths.

Muscular and skeletal: There is reduced agility, balance and strength and an increase in tremors and broken bones.

Difficulty lifting and moving objects. Falling is more likely. Gardening becomes more difficult.

Raised beds reduce the need to bend or kneel. The edges of raised beds can provide a place to sit while gardening. Stools provide an intermediate step between standard gardening and raised beds. Adaptive tools with better leverage and improved grips help make gardening easier.

Temperature adaptability: The body does not adjust as quickly or as well to temperature extremes and changes.

High and low temperatures are not tolerated as well. Hyperthermia or heatstroke is more likely. Heat exhaustion caused by loss of body water and salt is likely. Sunburn, eczema, dermatitis and infections increase.

Garden early in the morning or late in the day. Drink water and juice and avoid alcoholic beverages. Shower frequently or splash water on the body. Wear lightweight, loose fitting clothes that cover exposed skin. Wear a hat. Apply sunscreen. Eat light meals. Discuss heat related problems that may be complicated by medications with a physician. Wear gloves. Soak cuts and punctures in a mild salt solution (1 teaspoon per cup of water) until scab forms.

Disease and chronic conditions: arthritis and rheumatism, heart disease, kidney function

Strength decreases and pain increases. The person tires easily. Urination increases in frequency.

Adaptive tools combined with light, easily worked soil allow gardening activities to continue. Indoor and container gardening projects are more appropriate. Frequent resting periods and a cool place to rest are needed. Bathroom facilities should be near the garden.

Cognitive

Concept development may decrease if the person is not active and social. Alzheimer's disease is more likely, resulting in loss of short-term memory.

It becomes more difficult to learn new skills and to remember recent activities.

The garden can be kept simple with less confusing plantings. Plants that trigger memories can be planted. A distinctive and familiar focal point allows for easier orientation and wayfinding.

Reaction time increases. The learning pace slows. Accidents with power tools are more likely.

Avoid the use of power tools. Allow plenty of time for gardening activities, keeping the pace leisurely.

Societal Roles

Sense of security and safety is decreased.

This increases the level of fear of outside events and accidents.

Gardening activities should be in a safe place that provides a sense of security. Fences and walls provide security. Gardening with other people provides security and safety.

Family roles change. Economically the elderly person becomes more dependent and loses control of many aspects of life. Family and friends may move or die, isolating the person. Self-esteem and self-confidence are reduced.

This can result in aggressive behavior, isolation, regression or depression.

Gardening activities should be kept low in cost. The gardener should be given control over his or her area of the garden or have his or her own plants to care for. The gardener should be allowed to express individuality while working within a group. In groups, a committee structure can be used to make policies and solve problems. Social activities associated with the garden should be encouraged. Allow gardeners to teach others. Inter-generational activities are particularly effective.

Resources

Sources of adaptive tools adaptability, Post Office Box 515, Colchester, CT 06415

Lehman Hardware and Appliances, 4779 Kidron Road, Post Office Box 41, Kidron, OH 44636

Mellingers, Inc., 2310 West South Range, North Lima, OH 44452

Park Seed Co., Cokesbury Road, Greenwood, SC 29647

Walt Nicke Co., 36 McLeod Lane, Post Office Box 433, Topfield, MA 01983

W. Atlee Burpee & Co., 300 Park Avenue, Warminster, PA 18974

Sources of information from organizations and agencies

American Horticultural Therapy Association, Wightman Road, Suite 300, Gaithersburg, MD 20879

American Association of Retired Persons, National Headquarters, 1909 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20049 Council on Aging, 600 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20024

Further Reading

The Able Gardener: Overcoming Barriers of Age & Physical Limitations. Kathleen Yeomans. 1993. Storey Communications, Inc. Pownal, VT

Accent on Living. Accent Publications, Post Office Box 700, Bloomington, IL 61702

Adaptive Garden Equipment. Julia Beems. 1985. Craig Hospital, 3425 South Clarkson, Englewood, CO 80110

A Positive Approach. 1600 Malone Street, Municipal Airport, Millville, NJ 08332

Arthritis Today. Arthritis Foundation, 1314 Spring Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.

Keith L. Smith, Associate Vice President for Ag. Adm. and Director, OSU Extension.

TDD No. 800-589-8292 (Ohio only) or 614-292-6181