In the cemented jungle we live in, trees and green patches are becoming rarer and rarer. It is essential for us to, wherever we can, regrow this lost greenery in order to improve our environment. In addition to being generally amazing for the environment, gardens tend to be relaxing places that produce wonderful sounds and scenery, and with the many reasons listed below, help you and the people around you. Here's a bunch of reasons why gardens are great! Got a green thumb? Here are some tips for you!
Save Species
Gardens, especially with indigenous plants, can help support local wildlife, such as birds, insects and small animals. Tim Wong, an aquatic biologist at the California Academy of Sciences, decided to repopulate the pipevine swallowtail butterfly (Battus philenor) in the San Francisco area by growing a garden built especially to sustain the butterfly species. The butterflies were once common in the area but had reduced considerably in number after urban development work. He also showcased his interactions with the species on Instagram, and earned the title 'the butterfly whisperer'.
He estimates that he introduced thousands of new caterpillars in the last year itself.
You don't need to be an animal expert to help out! Just purchase some local plants and grow them in some healthy soil in an open area. Let nature do the rest.
Improve Air Quality
Many plant species are known to improve air quality, which is particularly useful in polluted cities. Some of these plants are Gerbera Daisy, Peace Lily, Spider Plant, Bamboo Palm and Golden Pothos. These plants are also appealing to the eye and work well indoors (except in bedrooms because plants release carbon dioxide at night, and take in oxygen too, which means you should keep it where you don't sleep at night), and generally improve your space.
Grow Your Own Quality Food
Many companies use harmful chemicals and pesticides to grow food with ease. To avoid this, consider planting your own herb garden. I grow basil, spinach and many other herbs in my garden, and I always know that they're fresh, free of harmful chemicals and organically grown. Growing your own food can also help reduce your food budget and help you save money in the long run. Now you'll know that your food is safe and of great quality!
Composting & Waste Disposal
By composting your kitchen and organic waste, you can reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills and improves the quality of your garden soil! A compost pot is a great feature in gardens.
Improve your Mental Health
A recent study conducted by Bakker Spalding has found that 88% of people find that mental wellbeing is a key benefit of spending time in the garden. Kathryn Rossiter, CEO of Thrive, one of the UK’s leading charities in disability and gardening says that “as well as the strong therapeutic value of gardening it can help people connect with others, reducing feelings of isolation. It makes us more active, gaining both physical and mental health benefits.” Many people agree that gardening and spending time in nature is relaxing and a good reliever of stress. Gardening is considered a great mood enhancer.
These are just a few reasons why having a garden is great!
Why not plant one now? Still holding back? Here are some FAQs:
Lack of space - hanging gardens, wall gardens and indoor and outdoor potted plants in balconies are all great ways to have a garden in a small space.
Too much work - gardening and gardens are said to be stress-relieving and can have a positive effect on you if you have a stressful, hectic schedule. They're a great way to take a break.
Don't know where to get plants - you can buy plants at local nurseries, and seeds there too! Plants and seeds are also available at online stores along with may other planting supplies.
Take Action
What's better than gardening? Community gardens.
Community gardening is great because it improves social ties with neighbours as well as improve the environment of your neighbourhood. For this, The EcoClub United is holding a project called JustPlant, where you can host a community gardening event for your neighbourhood, your family or even just your close friends. The garden can also stand as a beautiful, growing reminder of the people who planted it. Don't worry, participation in the JustPlant project is free of cost, and you can participate in it from anywhere, anytime! All we want is to inspire you to make a change. If you are under the age of 18, you might want to get consent from your guardians before hosting the event. So, what are you waiting for? Head over to our campaign page and join JustPlant now!
Learn More:
https://www.indy100.com/article/tim-wong-butterfly-whisperer-pipevine-swallowtail-battus-philenor-san-francisco-7490226
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/gardening/gardening-events/the-best-benefit-of-gardening--improving-our-mental-health/
Comments