Garden therapy is well-known around the world and is proven as an effective cure for a wide range of conditions. Aging adults particularly benefit from the healing powers of gardening in Carver Park, SC independent living. If you or your loved one is looking to start garden therapy, then this article is for you. You will learn all about the tools you need to make it fun and enjoyable..
Tools Needed for Gardening
If you or your loved one plan on starting a garden, you will need a few tools to make the job easier and more efficient. Here are some of the tools you will need to start your gardening journey and a brief description of their uses.
- Garden Gloves
Gardening can be hard on your hands. So, it is important to wear gloves to prevent scrapes, blisters and cuts.
- Pruning Shears
Every gardener has one of these. Pruning shears are used to trim plants, shrubs and trees so that they stay healthy and neat.
- Garden Trowel
A garden trowel is used for digging small holes or removing weeds. You can utilize it for breaking up earth, digging small holes. It is particularly helpful for planting and weeding, mixing in fertilizer or other additives, and transferring seedlings to pots.
- Shovel
This essential tool is used to dig holes meant for planting. It can also be used to mix soil, move plants and other raw materials.
- Watering Can
This is used to water your plants. Water is essential to life and the same applies to plants. Watering your plants regularly keeps them growing healthy.
- Garden Hose
A garden hose is used to redirect water across the garden, law, and other landscape areas. You can also use them for outdoor cleaning of garden tools and other items.
- Rake
A rake comes in handy when you need to remove weeds and debris from your garden.
- Hoe
This is good for digging up holes, aerating the soil and creating furrows for planting seeds.
- Hand Weeder
A hand weeder is used to remove or cut off weeds that trouble plants.
- Wheelbarrow or Garden Cart
Its primary use is to move materials around the garden. Wheelbarrows and carts are very handy for hauling heavy loads.
- Sun Hat, Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
A sun hat protects your face from the harsh ultraviolet rays of the sun and sunscreen does the same for the rest of your body. Insect repellent deters garden insects from biting you.
- Garden Scissors or Snips
These are used for cutting off parts in a plant that you decide to remove for varying reasons.
- Garden Kneeler or Cushion
Garden kneelers are outdoor cushions that you can kneel on to protect your knees and provide some comfort when gardening. They are portable and generally durable.
- Plant Labels and Markers
Coloured plant labels are useful for color coding. This system will help you identify different plants more easily. It will also help you remember vital information like when a plant was last watered or how old it is.
Benefits of Gardening for Aging Adults
Being around nature has tons of health benefits to aging adults. It helps with developmental disabilities, improves muscle strength, coordination, and fine motor skills. Gardening is a rehabilitative therapy that encourages socialization, lifts the spirit, and optimizes emotional health. Finally, aging adults that keep gardens whether in their senior apartment or outside are often happy, active and bursting with zest for life.