It’s officially Spring which means it’s time to break out the gardening gloves and your favorite tools! Gardening is a great way to get exercise, boost your mood, and enjoy some fresh air! Ready to dig into gardening this Spring season? Learn our best tips and tricks for building a beautiful garden.
Safety First!
As it gets warmer (and the St. Louis humidity kicks in), it’s important to stay safe while gardening. This includes drinking plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and putting on sunscreen before heading outside. Take breaks and check in with your body to make sure you aren’t overdoing it, especially if you are doing more lifting or digging than usual (Tip: Morning is a great time to garden because it is usually a bit cooler and the sun isn’t as harsh!)
The Right Tools
Having the right space and tools can make gardening even more fun! Try ergonomic tools such as trowels and shovels to maximize efficiency and reduce strain on muscles. At Friendship Village, we have a number of raised beds so it is much easier on your back.
Picking Flowers
One of the best parts of building your garden is picking out which plants you want to include! There’s a variety of flowers, herbs, or fruits and veggies to choose from. We recommend heading to a local nursery for inspiration and expert insight on what plants will work best for your specific space and grow zone. Consider factors like amount of sunlight, type of soil, and maintenance level when selecting your plants. Our expert gardening club would be happy to give you their gardening insights too – come join us for a tour at one of our gorgeous campuses!
Maintaining Your Garden
Successful gardening requires ongoing time and attention. For your garden to stay beautiful all season long, you’ll need to regularly feed your plants. Make sure you set a good watering schedule that suits the particular requirements of your plants. Don’t forget to prune and deadhead plants when necessary to allow for healthy growth, too!
Gardening is a fulfilling and fun activity with many physical and mental benefits. And, here at Friendship Village, it’s a social opportunity as well! Many of our residents take part in our gardening club and go on regular trips to nature preserves like the Missouri Botanical Garden, to fully enjoy the activity while socializing with friends! Interested in seeing the beautiful results of their efforts or possibly even joining the gardening club yourself? Schedule a tour at one of our gorgeous campuses to explore our beautiful gardens and so much more!