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It’s easy to romanticize gardening and certainly, for some people, it truly is the most enjoyable way to get outside, get some exercise, and reduce stress. However, for families, professionals, or simply those who live in a region with extreme temperatures, the idea of gardening can be more appealing than the reality. Not everyone is a gardener, just like not everyone is a basketball player or into knitting. You should figure out your gardening skills and how much time you’re ready to commit before picking a property based on gardening potential.
As a renter, you’re in a great position when it comes to starting your own garden. Some landlords have property management companies that take care of basic landscaping for you. If you’re not a gardener, this fee is included in your rent and you don’t have to worry about braving the scorching heat or freezing temperatures to mow and edge your lawn. Other properties are rented with the understanding that the tenants will take care of the landscaping. Consider this a vital factor when looking for a new rental.
Numerous studies have touted the holistic health benefits of gardening. It can actually be quite a workout, raising your heart rate and demanding heavy lifting. If you practice good posture while gardening, you can enjoy the benefits of aerobic and anaerobic exercise, stronger muscles, a lower resting heart rate, and even more flexibility. However, physical health isn’t the only upside to gardening.
Many gardeners tout stress reduction as the main appeal of maintaining a garden. There’s something meditative about getting back to the earth (literally), spending afternoons in the sunshine, and of course caring for living things. Gardening can be beneficial to your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. However, not everyone is a natural fit for this (just like yoga doesn’t appeal to absolutely everyone).
On the Other Hand…
Gardening isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It can be truly tough work depending on your goals, your physical abilities, and the terrain. For some people, the constant bending and stooping can cause chronic aches and pains. Sun and heat sensitivity are definitely a factor to consider, and heat stroke while gardening is unfortunately a big risk that especially affects older adults. Plus, gardens don’t understand that sometimes the weather is keeping them from being pruned and deadheaded, so you need to be really committed to make the most of your garden.
Deciding whether or not a garden is for you shouldn’t be taken lightly, especially if you’re in a neighborhood with an HOA that demands certain standards to be maintained. If you’re on the fence, consider starting with planter boxes or windowsill gardens. This will let you dip your toes into the world of gardening first to see if it’s a match for you. Also, if you have any questions don’t hesitate to call your friendly gardeners at The Dirt Bag so we can help you bring your vision to fruition.
