Master Gardener Spotlight Stories

Gardening Tips - Adaptive Gardening

Gardeners have special challenges as we age and develop restrictive health and body issues. With a few modifications we can still enjoy puttering in the garden, leaving the heavy work to paid help. Here are a few of my favorite tools and tips.

• Wear good shoes that won’t slip. Falling is hazardous so always be mindful of obstacles or slippery slopes
• Work in one hour spurts when your energy is at its best, early morning perhaps. Rest for a few minutes in the shade and drink water.
• Use a kneeling bench to protect the knees and provide arm support for standing back up easily. These can even work on hillsides if positioned correctly.
• Wear a wide brimmed hat, long sleeves and protective sunscreen.
• Minimize tools in a tool belt: Good pruners, Hori Hori knife, and sharpener for sure.
• Use a retractable hose to avoid tripping over a long one.
• Here are some more TIPS