Mobility and Physical Limitations Don’t Have to Keep You From Gardening

Many people find that gardening is an activity that brings joy, excitement and satisfaction. According to the National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture, up to 80% of homeowners, regardless of their mobility, in the U.S. are involved in gardening. 

Gardening is a good exercise activity, but the requirements of gardening at ground level can be limiting to those with accessibility issues. Common limitations include bad backs and arthritic knees. I can’t even guess how many ibuprofens I’ve taken after working in my home garden and landscape. The good news is there are options to make the garden more accessible. 

See more: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Vegetables

I’ve found that raising the level of the garden takes a lot of strain off my achy joints. There are several ways to do this. Many people like to vegetable garden in containers. Putting containers on benches is a way to make the garden a more manageable height. Harvesting vegetables at waist or chest height is much easier than having to stoop over. 

More Mobility

Another idea that works great – especially for vining crops – is to grow the plants up, taking advantage of the vertical space and making harvest much easier. These types of vegetables don’t naturally climb and need to be clipped or tied to a fence or trellis. 

A novel tip shared with me several years ago was to use gutters attached to my fence in several layers to create multiple levels. I’ve grown many types of salad greens, herbs and even flowers successfully in gutters. 

For those individuals with limited mobility that need the help of scooters or wheelchairs, salad tables are the perfect solution. Typically, these are 32 inches high and allow for easy access. These are great, as the name suggests, for easy-to-grow salad greens, radishes and flowers. I’ve also had success with cherry tomatoes, peppers and a variety of herbs. 

Everyone, no matter their level of accessibility, can take advantage of the benefits a garden can provide.