Benefits of Community Gardens
The benefits of Community gardens include Physical Health, Mental Health and Stress Relief, Nutritional Benefits, Environmental Stewardship, Community Engagement and Social Connections, Education, and Skill Development, and Aesthetics and Beauty. Engaging in gardening activities, such as digging, planting, weeding, and harvesting, offers older adult’s opportunities for physical exercise and movement that contribute to healthy aging. It improves flexibility, strength, and coordination, while also promoting cardiovascular health and weight management. Gardening supports joint mobility, reduces the risk of falls, and enhances overall mobility.
A study conducted in 2023 by the U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community states the new epidemic today is Loneliness. Gardening is a way to have a positive impact against this epidemic and to improve on mental health and overall well-being. It offers a chance to connect with nature, reduce stress levels, and promote relaxation. Community gardens not only help your own mental health, but they also bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and social cohesion. They provide spaces for interaction, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among individuals from diverse backgrounds. Gardening in a communal setting encourages teamwork, builds friendships, and strengthens community ties.
Gardening allows individuals to grow their own fresh, organic produce. This promotes access to nutritious food options, as well as the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and herbs rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. According to the Journal of Preventive Medicine, “Nutritional inadequacy” involves an intake of nutrients that is lower than the estimated average requirement, whereas “nutritional deficiency” consists of severely reduced levels of one or more nutrients, making the body unable to normally perform its functions and thus leading to an increased risk of several diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.” According to the CDC states that 92 percent of the US population is suffering from at least one mineral or vitamin deficiency based on the Dietary Reference Intakes. One of the most common deficiencies is Vitamin D. According to a US National survey in 2007-2010, 94.3% of Americans do not meet their daily requirements. Your body makes vitamin D when your bare skin is exposed to the sun, and just simply gardening for a couple hours a week can help you meet your requirements.
Gardening also helps promotes environmental sustainability. We strive to focus in our gardens to use native pollinators and plants. By growing these plants, individuals contribute to cleaner air, as plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Gardens also provide a habitat for pollinators, helping to support biodiversity and protect ecosystems. Furthermore, practicing organic gardening methods reduces the use of harmful chemicals used in pesticides and fertilizing products, benefiting both human health and the environment.
Gardening offers valuable educational opportunities for people of all ages. It helps teach principles of biology, ecology, and sustainability. Gardening also develops practical skills such as planning, problem-solving, and horticultural techniques. Through workshops, classes, and shared experiences, community gardens provide platforms for learning and personal growth. Workshops we have planned in the future include W.I.C cooking demonstrations to educate individuals such as Pregnant or nursing women to incorporate natural produce into their everyday meals. Helping these individuals meet their nutritional requirements.
Lastly, Gardens contribute to the visual appeal of neighborhoods, enhancing the overall quality of life in communities. They create attractive and serene spaces that promote relaxation and enjoyment. Beautiful gardens can inspire creativity, spark joy, and serve as a source of inspiration for residents and visitors alike.
