Gardening has been enjoyed by people for millennia, and its popularity grows with every passing day. People of all ages and backgrounds seek ways to create a beautiful and functional garden. They gain a lot of pleasure in the process, from planting their first seed to harvesting their own fruits and vegetables. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why gardening is such a beloved pastime around the world.
It Thrived Due To Covid-19
This pandemic has made a significant impression on the entire world. When many people were forced to stay at home due to lockdowns, they looked for ways to pass the time. Gardening became an ideal activity during this period of isolation. It enabled people to enjoy the outdoors, while still practicing social distancing. It gave a sense of accomplishment when plants grew successfully, at a time when other activities were curtailed.
People were also increasingly interested in growing their own food, as supply chains were disrupted due to the pandemic. By growing vegetables and fruits at home, individuals ensured access to fresh produce, while reducing their reliance on supermarkets. The internet contains statistics on gardening in the UK that discuss how much this pastime increased during the pandemic. They talk about who gardened the most, and what were the general trends.
It Provides Health Benefits
Getting your hands dirty in the soil can help reduce cortisol levels, which are often elevated when people become stressed. Moreover, gardening exposes you to fresh air and sunlight, which are essential for general well-being. Firstly, the sun provides Vitamin D which strengthens your bones. Secondly, it promotes better moods by reducing symptoms related to depression or anxiety.
In addition to stress relief, gardening offers an excellent source of exercise. It involves activities such as bending, lifting, digging, and planting. Each of these things works out various muscle groups in the body. Also, regular gardening can help to improve flexibility, balance, and strength, while burning calories at the same time.
You Can Grow Your Own Food
Growing vegetables, fruits, and herbs in your garden can ensure that you eat fresh and healthy produce. Moreover, homegrown food has better taste than what you buy in stores. This is because it doesn’t have to travel long distances, or be exposed to chemicals and preservatives. Gardening provides a sense of satisfaction for individuals who enjoy nurturing plants and seeing them grow. It’s a rewarding experience to see the fruits of your labor, quite literally, as you harvest your vegetables or pick ripe fruit from trees.
Lastly, growing your own food can save money in the long run. This is because you won’t have to pay for produce at the grocery store or farmer’s market. This cut down expenses and provides access to fresh produce all year round – without worrying about seasonality or availability issues.
It Draws You Closer To Nature
Gardening is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. It enables us to create and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces, and to be surrounded by natural beauty. In addition, this hobby provides an opportunity to learn about the different types of plants and flowers in our regions.
You can also connect with the environment on a deeper level. By working with soil, seeds, and plants, you can better understand the cycles of nature. You can discover how to work with these cycles in order to produce healthy crops.
It Increases The Presence Of Birds And Animals
By creating a welcoming environment, you can attract a diverse range of wildlife to your garden. One way to do this is by adding a birdbath or two. Birds need water for drinking and bathing, and providing this essential resource will encourage them to visit your garden regularly. Another way to attract birds is by installing a nesting box. They’re designed to mimic natural cavities that birds use for nesting and roosting, making them an ideal habitat for many species. Bird tables are another great option, and they especially benefit these creatures during the winter, when food is scarce.
Gardens can also attract other animals such as butterflies, bees, squirrels, and rabbits. You may wish to provide food sources like nectar-rich flowers or fruit trees. These can help support these creatures while they visit your garden. Finally, consider installing a pond as a home for fish and frogs. You’ll also be able to place some aquatic plants there.
It Encourages Sustainable Living
By growing our own produce at home, we can reduce our carbon footprint. This is because we cut down on the transport and packaging costs associated with supermarket buying. Since we control what fertilizers and pesticides are used in our gardens, we can ensure that our food is grown without harming the environment.
Furthermore, gardening promotes composting as a means to reduce waste. Instead of throwing away food scraps and yard waste, we can use them to create rich soil for our plants. Composting reduces the amount of trash that ends up in landfills, while providing valuable nutrients for our gardens.
It Provides Scope For Creativity
Gardening can be more than just planting flowers or maintaining a small lawn. Instead, you can experiment with different plants and decorative elements. You can choose where to place flower beds, which plants to place together, and what colors you want your garden to feature. This gives you complete control over the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.
Additionally, fountains offer an opportunity for creative expression. They come in various shapes and sizes, ensuring they’ll match your garden’s theme or style. They can provide a focal point in the center of the garden, and create a serene atmosphere for relaxation. You can also think about adding outdoor art or sculptures to complement your garden’s overall appearance.
Gardening saves money on landscaping services, and helps you connect with others who share your passion. Added together, you can easily see why this pastime is so popular. Both young and old can enjoy the beauty of nature and the benefits that it can bring.
