Franklin, TN

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Being physically challenged doesn't mean you can't enjoy gardening. That's the message from Steve Jones, horticulturist and author of the weekly newspaper column, "The Plant Man"

Here are some of Steve's tips on how to make gardening easier for those with disabilities, whether they have arthritis, are in a wheelchair or are visually impaired. "Maybe you or someone in your household has difficulty getting around in the garden," says Steve, "So let's see what can be done to make it easier and more enjoyable"

Raised beds and planters

Gardening in raised beds and planters makes the plants much more accessible to reach. A raised bed about 2 to 3 feet wide should work for most people, but you can make it wider than that if you will be able to access it safely from both sides. An important consideration is the height of the bed and it should match the needs of the person gardening in it. For example, a person in a wheelchair would want the height anywhere from 18 to 24 inches tall, while someone with arthritis may want to garden standing and could use a height in the 3 to 4 foot range.

Containers

Instead of planting at ground level, use lots of pots or other containers such as window boxes at an appropriate height. To help reduce the weight, use Styrofoam peanuts in the bottom half of the containers and fill with soil. You can plant just about everything from seeds and perennials to small shrubs and small trees in containers. For ease in moving the pots, use wheeled caddies that are available at most hardware stores.

Hanging baskets

Gardeners who have difficulty reaching up or need to remain seated can still enjoy planting in hanging baskets. Simply locate the baskets at lower levels or place them on benches while you work on them at a convenient height.

Garden up!

Another way to avoid excessive stooping or kneeling is to use trellises and other types of plant supporters. Once climbing plants grab hold of the trellis, fence or pergola, they quickly climb to eye level and beyond, so they can be clipped and trimmed, or simply enjoyed, while standing or seated. A climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea Petiolaris) is easy to grow, care free and is very long lived. American Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is another good choice with its yellow-orange fruit that attracts birds in the fall, or perhaps English Ivy.

Walkways and paths

Walkways should be a minimum of 3 feet wide. Ramps should be made of a non-slippery material and a handrail may be necessary. There are many possible surface materials for walkways. While packed soil is one of the cheapest, it will be muddy during wet weather. Sandstone pavers and brick are also good options but will be more costly. Remember, wood will work, but will be slippery when wet.

Sight and sound

For the visually impaired, choose plants that offer bright colors, variety of textures and lots of fragrance. A wide assortment of perennials and herbs works wonders for the senses. Group large areas of plants according to colors for more impact, as those with only partial visual problems will be able to locate them more easily. Use sound effectively. Add into the garden chimes, wind mills, fountains, and birdhouses to create soothing sounds.

For further reading on how to remake a garden to be more accommodating for those with physical disabilities or limitations, check out these books at your local library, bookstore or online:

"Accessible Gardening for People with Physical Disabilities: A Guide to Methods, Tools, and Plants" by Janeen R. Adil

"Accessible Gardening: Tips & Techniques for Seniors & the Disabled" by Joann Woy

The Plant Man is here to help. Send your questions about trees, shrubs and landscaping to steve@landsteward.org and for resources and additional information, or to subscribe to Steve's free e-mailed newsletter, visit www.landsteward.org

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Steve Jones

Gardening and Landscaping Experts

Greenwood

McMinnville, TN

800-426-0958