With warmer days ahead and sunshine in the air, there’s no better time to step outside and start a garden. Gardening is more than just a hobby, it’s a way to stay active, connect with nature and boost mental well-being. Studies show that spending time in the garden reduces stress and improves overall health. You can implement a few simple strategies to make gardening with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) easier, so you can create a thriving, accessible garden that engages your senses and brings joy year-round.
Let’s dig in.
Engage your senses with texture, fragrance, color and contrast for a garden that’s beautiful, accessible and joyful for all, including those with low vision.
Texture: Add plants that are easy to recognize by touch, like grasses for gentle motion that brushes as you walk by
Fragrance: Let fragrance lead the way with calming herbs that perfume the air and mark different areas of the garden
Color: Make your garden more visible with high-contrast, bold-colored plants
No matter your vision, your garden can be a place of beauty, connection and sensory joy.
Adjustments can make planting and maintenance much more manageable. The Macular Society suggests that you:
Use Plug Plants or Pre-Spaced Seed Tape: They are easier to handle than tiny seeds and don’t require any thinning
Only Trim Garden Paths: Let surrounding grass grow for a natural, low-maintenance look
Making your garden easy to move through is key to enjoying it safely and independently. The Macular Society recommends these simple adaptations:
Use Raised Beds: Raised beds and containers bring plants closer to your hands and eyes for easier maintenance
Add Labels: Label plants with large print, raised lettering or Braille markers for easy identification
Ensure Safe Paths: Choose non-slip surfaces and materials that minimize glare from the sun
A clutter-free garden reduces trip hazards and keeps your space easy to manage. The Macular Society advises you to:
Prevent Tripping: Use expanding or coiled garden hoses to prevent trip hazards
Make Tools Visible: Mark tools with brightly colored tape to avoid losing them in the soil
Keep Tools Handy: Use wrist straps, an apron or a tool belt to keep tools close
Contain Garden Debris: Lay a plastic sheet down before pruning or weeding to collect debris easily
Did you know that technology can help you identify plants, trees, flowers and even wildlife? Many gardeners use smartphone apps to get instant information about their surroundings.
Did you know that technology can help you identify plants, trees, flowers and even wildlife? Many gardeners use smartphone apps to get instant information about their surroundings.
Gardening should be enjoyable, no matter your level of vision. With the right techniques, tools and adaptations, your garden can be a place of comfort, creativity and joy.
Content inspired by the Macular Society’s practical gardening guide for people with sight loss. Source: Macular Society – Gardening
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