Blog Hero

Spring Is In The Air, Time to Get the Garden Planted

Inquire Today

By Marta Street, Certified Concierge Care Advisor 

In talking with seniors and learning about what things bring them joy, many talk about how they miss getting their hands dirty in the garden.  They think that because they are having some challenges with their health and mobility, they can no longer do what they used to enjoy.

The truth is gardening has many physical and mental health benefits.  Just being outdoors is a great start to help with mood, especially after the long dark and gloomy winters that we experience in the Pacific Northwest.  There is nothing better than a good dose of Vitamin D that we get from the sun, along with some fresh spring air to lift our spirits.

Staying active helps improve our mood and can help reduce our pain.  The simple act of planting, pruning and watering flowers helps us stay flexible and improves coordination.  By keeping busy in the garden, it helps us take our minds off our pain and other troubles and gives us something productive to do that will produce something wonderful in the end.  Who doesn’t like to see colorful flowers or eat something you grew yourself?  Creating a beautiful place to relax and enjoy gives you the added benefit of reducing stress and can actually lower blood pressure. Before you go out and tackle your new gardening project, here are some safety tips to consider:

  • Make sure the area you are going to work in is safe from trip hazards.
  • Are there loose steps or exposed tree roots? Is the ground level and free of clutter?
  • In the warmer months, don’t forget a sunhat and sunscreen and make sure you have a water bottle with you.
  • Keep your phone with you just in case something happens and you need to call for help.
  • And most important, don’t overdo it; Take your time and enjoy the journey.

Here are some ideas of how to create that perfect easy to manage garden space:

  • Raised flower beds are great! Keeping your work at waste level makes it easier to manage, and they are very attractive.  On that same note, raised pots can add character to your space.
  • They make great tools now for working in your garden that are lighter weight and designed to be easier to hold. Don’t overfill buckets and keep your garden hoses stowed away when not in use.
  • Have some sort of seat to rest on when you get tired.
  • Don’t overdo it! When you begin to get tired, enjoy a glass of iced tea or lemonade and enjoy what you are creating.  There is always tomorrow to keep working.
  • Do you want to be social with your gardening hobby? Look for a community garden in your neighborhood. You can share your love of the garden and maybe help others learn skills in the process.

If you don’t know where to start, here are a few easy ideas:

  • Plant Cherry Tomatoes. They are easy to grow, and they taste great!  They do well in small areas like decks and do well in pots as well.
  • Herb gardens are fun! Grow your favorites and share with neighbors and use them in your own cooking.
  • Snacking gardens can be fun too. Keep it near your kitchen so you can grab celery, lettuce, and baby carrots.  Throw in a strawberry plant or two.  I’ve seen “salad bowls” where people grow everything you need to build your own garden salad.
  • Indoor bulbs are fun to add color when it’s gloomy outside. Things like narcissus, hyacinth, and amaryllis are easy to grow and be kept inside year around.

This is the perfect time to start thinking about getting that garden started.  Brush off your tools, get those gloves on and let’s go get dirty!

Written by
Concierge Care Advisors

More Articles By
Concierge Care Advisors

Why Choose Us

No Cost for Families

Our services are entirely free for families. We are compensated by the senior living community or retirement community we refer to, allowing us to help all families with this important journey at no cost to them.

Boots on the Ground

We thoroughly vet every community and professional we work with, ensuring you receive the quality service you deserve. We set benchmarks that matter and only partner with professionals and communities that meet our high standards.

Personalized Choice

With personal relationships with over 2,200 senior living communities throughout the State of Washington alone, including assisted living communities, retirement communities, and independent living communities, we provide more than 2,000 senior living options.

White-Glove Service

You and your loved ones are our focus. From the moment we meet until the day your loved one moves in, we’re by your side every step of the way to ensure your family has the support it deserves. It doesn’t stop there either – stay connected for physician-informed guidance and knowledge to ensure your loved one is receiving the quality care they need.

Expertise Backed by Our Physicians Advisory Board

At Concierge Care Advisors, our team of Certified Advisors is enhanced by the insights and expertise of our Physicians Advisory Board. This panel of medical professionals plays a crucial role in shaping our senior care and transition services, ensuring they meet the high standards of quality and care that our brand is known for. With their guidance, we deliver a more comprehensive range of services, benefiting both families and healthcare professionals.

Our Physicians Advisory Board members actively share their knowledge with our community. They regularly contribute to #TheSeniorSpotlight Podcast, where they discuss critical topics in senior care, and publish thought leadership articles on our blog and in industry publications. Learn more about our Physician Advisory Board here

These resources are designed to help seniors and their families make informed decisions about care options, equipping them with knowledge and providing peace of mind regarding senior health and living options. 

Listen to our Physician Advisory Board on #TheSeniorSpotlight Podcast

FAMILY RESOURCES

The Top Reviewed Senior Living & Care Company!

We Get It Right
The First Time

Our Testimonials

See what families are saying about
Concierge Care Advisors.

Start Your Journey

instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax