Whether a seasoned gardener or just beginning to learn the tricks of the trade, National Gardening Day (April 14th) is meant to encourage people to get their hands dirty. It celebrates a wonderful pastime that’s good for the Earth, the body, and the soul.
This year’s event might be the most poignant one yet. While the coronavirus pandemic prevents neighborhood plant swaps or community garden events from taking place, it has also breathed new life to the ‘grow your own’ movement.
Around the globe, seed sales are skyrocketing as housebound people tune into the value of growing fresh, nutritious food themselves.
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds had to temporarily close to restock after receiving its largest volume of orders ever.
The company tells The Washington Post its typical peak season is from January to March, only this year, the end-of-season decline isn’t happening.
The story is much the same around the world, with many seed businesses closing their phone lines and online shops due to high demand.
Packets of seeds for beans, kale, lettuce, spinach, and other leafy greens are flying off the shelves.
Everybody is desperate to start growing. The writing is on the wall, and self-sustainability is suddenly very sexy.
It’s About Time
Beyond being good for the environment, gardening has healing capabilities.
Consider it free therapy. Science has long proven that growing plants and tending to them can help ease depression, anxiety, and stress.
It improves cognitive functioning and emotional well-being. Simply looking at a garden can lower blood pressure and reduce muscle tension!
The current reality of isolation and social distancing can be challenging for our mental health; taking care of it is critical.
If you have a balcony, a yard, or any outdoor space, then you have what it takes to jump into the world of gardening.
Start small with sprouts, microgreens, and herbs, then graduate to more challenging crops. Once you start, you’ll see; growing plants is downright addictive.
So, after washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, go ahead and get them dirty.
Everybody’s doing it.