Back to the garden

Mother Nature isn’t affected; in fact it’s probably doing better with less pollution around, so here are some positive garden ideas to enjoy amongst the gloom of the coronavirus pandemic

- Leigh Clapp

If you’re fortunate to have a garden, self-isolation is offering you the perfect opportunity to get out into it and have it looking better than ever. The physical exercise and mental health benefits of spending time in the garden are well documented, being around plants even lowers stress levels, fear and anger – all feelings we are dealing with at this time. Here’s the chance to really tidy up, get creative, try some ‘make-do-and-mend’, divide plants as they come into growth and propagate your own stock, it’s easy and economical, and all while having a satisfying green-gym workout. Let us know how you get on and do share any of your own creative ideas. Remember though to use the same strict hygiene practices as inside, such as keeping your distance from other members of the family, ideally two metres, and thoroughly washing hands. If you haven’t a garden you may be able to plant up some pots for the windowsill, do something creative, or at least open your windows, get some fresh air and look out at nature.

1. TAKE A STROLL

Aim to get outside in your garden at least once a day, wander and slowly breathe, really notice the sights and sounds all around you. Time outside in the fresh air is a positive and soothing pursuit. With less traffic the bird song will be clearer, bees will be humming and you’ll have time to admire the beauty of the plants and observe insects as they go about their daily lives. You will save money on replacing plants, fertilising and watering if you use the mantra, ‘right plant, right place’. Instead of fighting the situation, go with the flow. Here’s the chance to closely observe your conditions at different times of the day, the sun, shade, wind, assess the soil and amount of natural moisture.