University of Vermont Extension 
Department of Plant and Soil Science

Spring, Summer News Article

By Dr. Leonard Perry, Extension Professor
University of Vermont
 
 

For many people, gardening is a therapeutic activity, providing hours of relaxation and contemplation. But as we age, even some of the simplest tasks, like planting flowers or weeding, become difficult due to arthritis, back injuries, and other health problems. Injuries caused by accidents and other physical limitations also pose challenges to gardeners.

The answer is not to give up gardening but to change how you do it. This may mean buying different tools, planting in raised beds or containers, or redesigning garden paths for easier movement. You also may wish to shop by mail order instead of making the trip to your garden center for supplies, seeds, and plants. Increasingly, you can even shop at local garden centers online with delivery to your home.

The first step is to determine what your limitations are then take them into account when planning the garden. If you are having trouble bending, then you'll probably want raised beds. If you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair, allow extra space between plantings and make sure you have a smooth, hard-surfaced path to get to and from the garden.

Visually impaired? Think about mass plantings of brightly colored flowers such as red geraniums and yellow marigolds or fragrant flowers like lavender and nicotiana. Buy a large magnifying glass for planting seeds and viewing plants. Or use mechanical seeders or seed tape to plant.

Use colorful plant markers with large print. Hang wind chimes or put in a fountain for orientation in the garden.

The main rule of thumb is that you want gardening to be enjoyable, which also means accessible. If you have trouble walking, move the garden closer to your back door. Keep tools close by, such as in a tool shed with a door that's at least 36 inches wide if you use a wheelchair.

You may want to purchase some type of tool carrier such as an apron with large pockets, a child's wagon, or a bucket or basket. You can find tool caddies with wide wheels at your hardware store or garden center. These often have a seat with a storage area underneath for your hand tools.

And speaking of tools, consider lightweight tools with large handles for better grip, especially if you suffer from arthritis or have limited strength. Wheelchair-bound gardeners will find long-handled tools more convenient to use.

Foam kneeling pads or knee pads will make gardening gentle on the joints. A four-wheeled cart may be easier to push than a wheelbarrow with less chance of tipping.

If you are a new gardener, or a long-time gardener facing new challenges, start small, avoiding anything that makes gardening more challenging than it needs to be. Plant a smaller garden or fewer plants, choosing low-maintenance, easy-to-grow varieties.

Keep beds narrow to make them easier to weed. Set up a drip irrigation system so you won't have to lug a hose to the garden every time you need to water. Use mulches to reduce weeding and watering, or hire your neighbor's child to help with these and other chores. It's a good way to introduce the next generation to the joys of gardening.

Or you can plant your flowers and vegetables in containers or in shallow planters placed on a table at wheelchair height. Many annuals and herbs are particularly suited for container gardening as they have shallow roots. Just remember to water regularly.

If you, or others who will visit the garden are mobility impaired, you will need to make the path leading to the garden wide enough for a wheelchair (generally four to five feet). It should be as level as possible and have raised edges and a hard surface of a non-skid material such as roughened concrete, asphalt, or interlocking bricks. Don't use wood as it will be slippery when wet.

If you are not physically challenged, but have friends or family members who are, make it possible for them to enjoy your garden by selecting plants and features with sensory interest. For example, visually impaired or non-sighted individuals will enjoy the scents and sounds of plants.

Plant fragrant roses, herbs, scented geraniums, and moonflowers, among other aromatic flowers. Ornamental grasses add sound to the garden as does a bubbling fountain.

Use raised beds, tables, or tall containers to put plants at a comfortable height for those who have trouble bending or use a wheelchair. Make garden paths level and wide, and include a sturdy bench in the shade for resting. Complete your accessible garden with a garden whimsy or two such as a shiny gazing ball, interesting statue, or whirligig.