Patio Gardening Tips for Seniors

As we grow older, the significance of engaging in activities that stimulate both our bodies and minds increases. While you may be familiar with options like water aerobics, yoga, and various exercises, have you ever thought about delving into patio gardening?

What is Patio Gardening?

Patio gardening involves growing plants in pots or containers on a patio. These containers range from simple pots to more elaborate planters, vertical gardening systems, and hanging baskets.

Gardening this way is a good alternative if you don’t have access to a yard or garden plot. It allows you to enjoy growing herbs and plants in limited spaces, with the added benefits of easy accessibility and maintenance.

Benefits of Patio Gardening for Seniors

You don’t need to be an expert gardener to begin. Patio gardening is an excellent new hobby, and is pretty inexpensive to get started.

In addition, the containers you choose can be raised and often won’t require you to bend and stand up like you do with typical gardening. If you are in a wheelchair, you can find elevated planters that come to a level that suits you.

Even if you are a fairly mobile senior, patio gardening can be a physical activity that helps you avoid spending too much time out in the heat. A 2017 study published in Preventive Medicine Report showed that gardening reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, and the practice of growing plants can boost your day-to-day mood.

What to Plant in a Patio Garden?

Herbs

Herbs are a good place to start, as they are versatile and can be used in various culinary dishes for a healthy and delicious addition.

Consider herbs like:

• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Mint (be careful - mint likes its own pot!)
• Parsley
• Dill
• Chives

Succulents  

If you’re new to gardening, succulents can be an excellent option as they don’t need a lot of watering, and. tThey do well in dry air and warm temperatures., typical in many senior communities.

The easiest succulents to grow include:

• Aloe Vera
• Burro’s Tail
• Snake Plant
• Jade Plant

Fragranced Plants

Do you enjoy an evening or morning relaxing outside your patio? Adding fragrance can be the key to taking it up a notch. Consider adding these fragranced plants for an ambiance of relaxation:

• Lavender
• Jasmine
• Basil
• Wisteria
• Petunias

Vegetables

Vegetables deserve a mention too. Think of leafy greens, lettuce, and tomatoes: they don’t require pampering and still reward you with fresh bites of goodness. 

Bulbs

Bulbs are very easy to plant and maintain. They also have a long lifespan; hence, they will continue to provide beauty and joy to your patio garden year after year. Try the following options:

• Daffodils
• Hyacinths
• Tulips
• Crocus
• Calla Lilies
• Gladiolas

There are so many options to put in your patio garden. Enjoy the process of learning a new hobby while creating a beautiful garden!