It is no secret that many seniors enjoy time in their gardens. From luscious indigenous foliage beds to colorful annuals and perennials or vegetable patches, gardening is something that brings a wealth of happiness and joy to baby boomers and beyond. A meta-analysis conducted by Preventative Medicine Reports found that gardening provides many benefits. This study analyzed data from multiple studies on the effects of gardening across age ranges and ethnicities including the senior population. It was found that those who engage in gardening activities felt enriched by their time with nature, were more physically active, and felt a part of their communities. These are just some of the rewards that come from planting a seed and watching it grow, and all the rewards are important for the long-term health of seniors. Clearly, there are many reasons why getting outside and enjoying a garden is great for the soul, mind, and body.
If you are new to the gardening scene and are wondering if the fall season is a good time to begin your gardening escapades, the answer is a resounding YES! Melbourne, FL, home of Champion Home Health Care, experiences superb temperatures and receives adequate sun during the fall and winter months to sustain a viable garden. There are several things you can do during the month of October and well into November that will set you up for success. Let’s take a closer look at what you can plant during this time frame.
Vegetables:
During October and November, you can begin planning cooler season crops. Great additions to your vegetable garden include:
- Broccoli
- Greens – lettuce, kale, mixed greens, etc.
- Celery
- Cauliflower
- Radishes
For a more exhaustive list, visit the University of Florida IFAS site here. One of the great things about living in our climate is that you can plant many crops multiple time allowing for several harvests!
Herbs:
Now is a great time to start your herbs from seeds and/or seedlings. Some of the tasty varieties you can enjoy are:
- Cilantro
- Garlic
- Sage
- Parsley
- and
Herbs will make a beautiful addition to your container garden and are so useful for preparing delicious home-cooked meals.
For those more interested in flowers and greenery, now is the best time to prep beds with bulbs such as lilies in preparation for blooms for next spring. Your fall garden can become alive with color by taking advantage of seasonal annuals like petunias and pansies.
When it comes to gardening, the sky really is the limit. You can be creative and plant on the ground or utilize pots and containers. Whatever you choose, remember that your time in nature is precious and has been proven to provide mental and health benefits. Get out there and grow!
