By Frank Spinelli, U. C. Master Gardener
An article in the Wall Street Journal last year pointed out the benefits of gardens and gardening. As a gardener myself, I began to reflect on the health benefits of my hobby. Humans have gardened throughout recorded history. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, allegedly built around 600 B.C., were one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Even then, people appreciated the value of a tranquil, beautiful view of nature. In our urbanized society, private and public gardens and parks offer a respite from traffic, telephones and tearing around. Many hospitals have gardens because it's known that gardens improve one's feeling of well-being. Studies have proven the stress-relieving properties of gardens. Other research suggests that people with wounds or other physical problems heal faster if exposed to gardens or other landscapes. Scientists may not understand how this works, but those of us who garden know it almost intuitively. Being in a garden or park helps us clear the cobwebs from our mind and to feel better in general. Consider the other benefits of gardening. We gardeners work in the fresh air, getting mild to moderate exercise. Planning the garden, preparing the soil, then planting and nurturing plants leads to a tremendous feeling of satisfaction when the blooms appear. You can bring the cut flowers indoors for added enjoyment. Those gardeners who grow fruits and vegetables improve their diet and enhance their pleasure. No supermarket sells a tomato as good as the one you pick from your own vine. No peach or nectarine is as tasty as one that's homegrown. Of course, working outdoors requires some precautions. Wearing a broad-brimmed hat and using sunscreen will minimize sun damage. Lift heavy loads properly and never lift more than is comfortable. Use proper tools and ladders as needed. Be aware of the possible danger of power tools such as mowers and trimmers, especially around children. People allergic to bee stings should avoid growing plants that attract bees. You can find a list of these in Sunset's Western Garden Book or call the University of California Cooperative Extension office for guidance. Even people with physical handicaps can garden. For wheelchair-bound gardeners, raised beds and firm pathways make gardening possible. Those who have trouble bending or kneeling can grow crops vertically on trellises. By any measure, gardening is good for mind and body. Spring is almost here. Get out and enjoy it.