Gardening good for both body and spirit

By Alan Suderman
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Whether growing roses for their beauty or tomatoes for their taste, many Americans find gardening to be a relaxing and rewarding hobby.

“I like to putter around in the dirt,” jokes Pete Higa, who is a member of Highland Springs’ greenhouse and garden club.

He’s not alone. Nationwide polls consistently rank gardening as one of the most popular activities in the country. And experts say its popularity is likely to sprout as more baby boomers discover the joys of getting their hands dirty and their thumbs green.

Many different benefits
Dr. Richard Mattson, a professor of horticultural therapy at Kansas State University, says gardening can be an ideal hobby for older adults. Working with plants can be a great way to get a little exercise without overdoing it.

And just being around plants and flowers can improve your health, Mattson says.

He says research shows that a short stroll through a garden can lower your blood pressure and give a boost to your immune system.

“If [you] have enough homegrown tomatoes, it’s probably a social benefit too,” Mattson says with a laugh. “There are all kinds of benefits.”

Mattson also says it’s never too late to take advantage of the positive power of plants. But he stresses moderation is key, especially for older adults.

“It doesn’t take much— the effect is there,” he adds.

Outside or inside
At Highland Springs, residents can garden outside in their own patches, or use a newly built greenhouse that has room for several gardeners.

Believed to be used since ancient times, greenhouses are enclosed structures with controlled temperatures designed to grow plants. They keep out wind, dust, insects, and other elements that may harm plants.

The popularity of greenhouses is growing as more people discover their benefits.