Exercise
The Queensland Government recommends gardening due to the ways it keeps you active. Gardening can encourage the use of many motor skills, improve endurance and strength and keep you moving. Whether you’re mowing the lawn, weeding the garden beds or just planting new seedlings, gardening provides a range of movement that you might not even recognise as exercise since you’re having so much fun.
Getting Outdoors
If you find yourself stuck inside all week at work, a spot of gardening on the weekend is perfect for your dose of Vitamin D. 15-30 minutes of sunlight is recommended to get the standard amount of Vitamin D, which is easily achieved by daily watering of your plants. However don’t forget to slip, slop and slap if you’re planning to be out for an extended period of time.
Time Together
Gardening is the perfect activity to do as a family. Everyone can get involved, and the kids will love seeing what they can grow. Marigolds, cherry tomatoes or snow peas are great starter plants that will give them something to enjoy soon after planting.
Healthy Ingredients
After putting all the love into your plants, there’s nothing better than taking them to the kitchen table. Fresh produce is the best thing to add to your diet, and it doesn’t get fresher than when it comes from your own backyard! To see which plants you’ll need for which vitamins, have a look at this guide:
Best Things to Plant in Spring
If you’re just getting your garden started and want some tasty treats, it’s not too late. The best plants to begin with in spring are tomatoes, strawberries and leafy greens such as spinach, silverbeet and lettuce, which provide quick reward. Just be wary of snails and slugs, who will want to munch on your leaves as well!
For a more thorough list of plants to start in spring, check out this Bunnings guide.
https://www.bunnings.com.au/diy-advice/garden/planting-and-growing/what-to-plant-in-spring
I hope this has encouraged more of you to get out into your yard this spring. Why not share some of your growing pictures with us? 🙂
Happy gardening! Saana
https://www.health.qld.gov.au/news-alerts/news/health-benefits-of-gardening
