Gardening is an activity that many people, from the novice to the experienced, can really enjoy. Whether it’s working in one of your favorite flower beds, feeding your fish in the pond, or picking fresh vegetables straight from the garden, you’ll find joy in all of it. Gardening also has some practical applications. It is critical to identify the right area and to provide the appropriate level of sunlight, water, and nutrients for your chosen plants. When one grows their own vegetables and fruits, they will get fresh food with no added fat, salt, or preservatives. They can prepare delicious, nutrient-packed meals much cheaper.
Gardening is a brilliant way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise simultaneously. But it’s important to stay safe and prevent accidents while you garden. Can you dig it? These seven gardening tips will help you maintain your yard without getting injured.
Safety Check
One misstep is all it takes to trip and fall. So, make sure you do a safety inspection of your yard. Walk around your yard with a friend or family member to check for hazards such as roots, uneven ground, loose steps, pebbles, and so on. They’ll pick up on details you might overlook.
Wear Protective Gear
Our skin thins as we age, and branches and stickers can cause painful scrapes that can become infections. Wear long-sleeved shirts, sturdier pants, gloves, and a pair of goggles or old sunglasses to stay protected.
Carry a Cellphone with You
Take your cellphone with you whenever you leave the house (carry it in the house, too.) It’s unlikely that you’ll ever use it, but if you do, it might save you a lot of time in the event of a fall.
Use a Cane Or a Walking Stick
When walking on uneven ground, give yourself the extra support you require. Having a cane nearby will make it much easier to get back up if you fall. With its pointed tip, a ski pole can also be used as a gardening cane, great for picking up trash or holding down a stray branch.
Avoid Ladders
Most gardens have uneven surfaces. If you’re unable to reach something, let it be. Do not attempt to climb up on chairs, ladders, or 5-gallon cans that have been flipped over.
Raise Your Gardening to Waist Level
Your aching knees and arthritic joints will thank you for bringing your garden closer to you. Invest in one or two raised planting beds. To make sitting and working more manageable, make sure there is a great, wide top board. It shouldn’t be too tall, maybe 2 to 3 feet.
Avoid Overworking
Don’t try to complete all your activities in a single day. Most accidents occur when we are tired and not paying attention. Work for a bit, then kick back and relax.