Gardening for the Handicapped
Fred from FredShed in the UK is enthusiastic about making gardening easier for those with disabilities
Gardening is a wonderful activity that young and old alike regardless of skill or physical ability can enjoy. But as our population ages some gardeners give up their beloved hobby due to some personal restrictions. These can be as simple as a cane, walker, or wheelchair or as diverse as learning disabled to dementia. But regardless of the handicap, all individuals can enjoy the art of gardening.
Gardening by definition is the process by which one cultivates or plants a garden but it is also an art form, hobby, and a way individuals can be self-sustaining. Gardening also adds to physical fitness by burning 313 calories per hour for the average person, improves eye/hand coordination, and develops fine motor skills. Also gardening can create an uplifting experience for anyone who grows something. The positive effects of watching the fruits of one’s labor grow and mature can bring sunshine to anyone’s life even on a cloudy day. So how can one make gardening available to all regardless of ability, skill, or age?
The key to this dilemma is making gardening an even playing field for all. Below are some suggestions that will help make gardening accessible to all.
Containers
Container gardening or raised beds are great alternatives for those who want to garden but have physical limitations. Containers need to be 30-36 inches off the ground or be on raised legs if one is going to use a raised bed. Both types of containers are very functional for those who may have mobility problems.
Tools
Long-handed tools are great to have around for all gardeners. They are very conducive to container gardening and are easier to handle from a seated position.
Sun and Clothing Protection
Many handicaps can make individuals more susceptible to heat stroke or sunburn. So providing shade for gardening activities or supplying gardening hats will help reduce that exposure. Also aprons provide clothing coverage while creating a space to store hand tools. Holsters, and tool totes are also a great addition for the handicapped gardener. These simple items not only can be attached to a person but also can be attached to a walker or wheelchair for ease.
Gardening Environment
Creating a gardening environment that is handicapped accessible can be a challenge but with planning can be simple. Make sure gardening paths are between 36-40 inches wide and are made of a smooth surface. If the gardening environment is a greenhouse make sure the doorway and paths are at least 36-40 inches wide. Also make sure the path is clear of obstacles such as watering hoses and containers. Greenhouse and potting benches also need to be at a height that is comfortable from a seated position.
Watering/Fertilizing Equipment
Hoses can be heavy and a hazard to those in walkers and wheelchairs while watering cans create a challenge of how to carry them and stay dry. The solution is a misting irrigation system that can be installed in a greenhouse or providing stretched out hose that is secured to the ground but contains several feet loose for ease of mobility. The hose in turn can sport different nozzles that provide varied functionality. Also fertilizer nozzles can be added that automatically mixes fertilizer with water during the watering process.
Plants and Seeds
Choosing planting material that is conducive for the handicapped gardener is easy as long as you keep one thing in mind that is size. Size is everything and needs to be manageable not only in carrying but also in the process of planting. Nothing is as discouraging as trying to plant a plant that you cannot handle yourself.
Seeds are a better option but does give instant gratification like live plants do. Individuals who have good eye/hand coordination and fine motor skills can plant seeds with great success. But those who have poor eye/hand coordination, fine motor skills, or are learning disabled may find seed tape a better option.
Seed tape can be found in the spring at your local home improvement store but they are just as easy to make at home. The process is great for improving eye/hand coordination and fine motor skills. Simply cut 2-inch strips of black and white newspaper. Make a flour and water paste and place a dollop of flour/water glue down while placing seed on top and slightly covering seed with flour/water glue. Measure the appropriate spacing and seed again. Continue down the strip and let dry. Once dry, roll and place in a glass jar or film canister and store in a dry, cool environment like a garage or refrigerator. Another approach is to cut the black and white newspaper strips and place seeds on strip by appropriate spacing. Then fold over strip and glue with water around the edges making sure the strip is tight so that the seeds do not move.
Gardening can remain a therapeutic activity that addresses the physical and mental needs of all with just a few adaptations. The goal of any gardening program or garden itself will remain enjoying the fruits of one’s labor regardless of age, skill, or handicap. So next time you see that old gardener sitting on the garden bench withdrawn from their beloved garden offer some help in allowing them to continue with their independence while gardening. You will be amazed at how everyone’s garden will grow.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mindy McIntosh-Shetter has been an Agricultural Science educator, and is a horticulture and/or environmental blogger who earned a degree from Purdue University in Agriculture Education with a minor in biology, and natural resources. Presently she is finishing up her Masters in Environmental Education and Urban Planning for the University of Louisville while working on her own agriculture/environmental blog.
