CORVALLIS, Ore. — Gardening can be therapeutic — emotionally, mentally and physically — but for some it can feel out of reach. Good design and practices can make gardening accessible for everyone.
“We all have challenges if we live long enough,” said Corinne Thomas-Kersting, an Oregon State University Extension Service Master Gardener volunteer and a retired speech-language pathologist. “We have different challenges. Even when you’re young and healthy there are things to do to prevent future disabilities.”
Thomas-Kersting advocates universal garden design — planning the landscape so anyone can access and enjoy it.
“It is my deeply held belief that we don’t need to label people as having a disability versus being ‘normal,’” she said. “Using universal design benefits us all.”
Design for all abilities
There are many ways to design a universal garden. Knowing Americans with Disabilities Act measurements for pathways, using raised beds and selecting appropriate tools are good starting points.
A garden for someone with a visual impairment could feature water sounds, fragrant plants, ornamental grasses that rustle in the wind, and bright, contrasting colors.
“For me, I really love to touch things,” Thomas-Kersting said. “Think about texture — smooth, fuzzy, lacy, sharp. Variety and mindfulness in how it’s designed opens the opportunity for more people to enjoy it. And you enjoy it, as well.”
New Extension guide
An OSU Extension publication, Gardens are for everyone, offers tips for creating accessible home and community gardens — including design, navigation, tools and equipment, and plant selection.
In her own garden, Thomas-Kersting replaced steps with a ramp. It allows wheelchair access and makes it easier to move a wheelbarrow. She also prefers the look of a sloping, continuous path.
Prevent strain with tools and habits
Stretching, resting and using the right tools help avoid injuries and mitigate limitations from mobility issues or medical conditions such as arthritis. Place benches and chairs throughout the garden for breaks. Keep drinking water handy. Stretch or walk briefly before and after gardening.
Ergonomic tools are available at a range of prices. Look for curved handles and finger indentations on small tools, or wrap handles with water pipe insulation, bicycle grips or golf-club tape. Ensure longer tools have handles long enough to keep your back straight. Choose lightweight materials such as aluminum; sometimes children’s tools are sufficient.
Practical tips to make gardening easier
Use a kneeler with handles to help you get up; some models flip to become a seat.
Sit on a bucket or a seat designed for gardening.
Use major muscle groups and keep your back straight.
Start small to avoid overdoing it.
Keep pruners and other tools sharp and clean; store pruners in a sheath.
Build raised beds or tables of wood, concrete blocks or thick pavers. Make them 3 to 4 feet wide and 24 to 36 inches high. Kits are available.
“Bring the garden to you” with containers or window boxes. They’re easier to weed and water, and wheeled containers move easily.
Make beds narrow enough to reach the center when sitting or kneeling.
Put away tools, hoses and wheelbarrows to reduce tripping hazards.
Use a light or expanding hose.
Make paths intuitive so users don’t need directions.
Design wider paths with places to turn around — helpful for wheelbarrows and mobility devices.
Replace steps with gradually sloping paths where possible.
Keep tools close to the garden. If possible, move or build a shed adjacent to planting areas.
Choose lower-maintenance plants that need less water, pruning, staking and deadheading; seek disease- and pest-resistant varieties.
Previously titled Gardening can be accessible to all with some adjustments
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