Good Natured Gardening: Adaptive Gardening Eases Tasks For Those With Physical Limitations

While gardening is an enjoyable activity for many people, it can be difficult for those of us with temporary or long-term restrictions. Adaptive gardening offers gardeners a way to determine what is right for them and tailor tasks to suit their physical abilities.

Accept it with a smile. Make sure your skills are up to the task of gardening.

There are several types of garden planters, including spray containers and shovels with seed containers. The seed tape is convenient in that it facilitates the planting process and minimizes bending time.

Choose plants that are pleasant to the touch and evoke pleasant memories. Sensory plants have special sound, smell, taste, tactile or visual characteristics. Bamboo, corn, and grass made melodious sounds as they rustled against each other in the breeze. Geranium, jasmine and lavender have a characteristic aroma.

Fringe, lion's jaws, and fringe create a different feel. Basil, carrots, strawberries and tomatoes are delicious plants. Daffodils, marigolds, pansies and tulips have vibrant flowers.

Bird cages, fountains, garden bells and windmills create soothing sounds.

There are also alternative garden types...

Container gardening uses barrels, pots and planters as a smaller gardening method. Lightweight plastic pots are easier to handle than heavier clay, metal or wood pots. Containers on wheels make it easy to rotate and move.

An elevated bed with seat sides reduces flexing and rocking and is beneficial for those with back, knee or neck problems. They should be a maximum of 4 feet in diameter to allow easy access from all sides.

Raised beds are shallow beds that allow gardeners who like to sit and put their feet under the table. They are useful for people who use walkers or wheelchairs, or for those who prefer to sit.

The window box places the workspace at a comfortable waist level.

Place a hanging basket on the main drum system for easy access, watering, feeding and mowing.

Mesh simplifies the work area by reducing the need for folds. Even fences can be ideal for vertical gardening.

Add plenty of organic matter to the soil to make digging, planting, and weeding easier.

Arrange the plants together according to their water needs. Use a water saving hose or drip irrigation system. Telescopic watering can with thumb handle makes watering plants easier.

Knee, ankle or elbow supports or knee pads can help relieve joint pain. Raise with your feet, not your back. Take care of your body.

A quality self-winding water pipe is convenient and ideal for impromptu squabbles with children, grandchildren or a spouse.

The garden cart can carry plants, tools, bags of soil and compost. After you've finished driving, take your kids, grandchildren, or partner for a ride while taking in the beautiful scenery of the surrounding area.

Some tools are available with telescoping handles that can increase reach. Ergonomic tools make it easier for arthritis patients to work. Fiskars, Corona and Gripworks make equipment for people with disabilities.

Coating the long tool handles with pipe insulation provides a softer grip. Tools like the EZ Reacher and Easy Gripper help get things out of reach. Wearing a carpenter's apron helps you keep track of your gardening tools, requiring fewer turns and trips to the shed.

Keeping your tools clean and sharp can work more efficiently and reduce stress on your upper body.

Power tools make difficult tasks easier. Electric lawn mowers are easier to start than pull cord mowers.

Garden benches on wheels allow you to sit comfortably while you work. Many of these benches have pockets, baskets, or places to store small tools.

A plastic wheelbarrow with two wheels or a plastic/aluminum wheelbarrow with large wheels will help transport plants and materials.

Gates and walkways must be 4 feet or more wide to accommodate wheelchairs, wheelchairs, walkers, or pushchairs.

Stairs must be equipped with handrails for safety. There are rest stops along the way. Provide a safe, smooth and well-drained path that provides good traction.

When working with spikes, trousers and shirts with long sleeves are preferred. Use a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face. High-quality gloves with hard surfaces or edges provide good grip, protect hands and improve dexterity.

Excessive sun exposure can cause problems for those taking certain prescription medications. Sunscreen and moisturizer are very important.

Plant in the morning or evening when it is cooler. If possible, delegate tasks that you don't like or that are too difficult. Keep the whistle away so you can call for help if needed.

Take breaks, maybe every 20-30 minutes. For me, there is nothing more refreshing than sleep. I always sleep eight hours a day... and at least 10 hours at night.

Do what you can and accept what you can't. Stop and smell the roses.

Schmidt is a Povey resident with over 40 years of gardening experience.