- Gardening in the U.S. is estimated to be engaged by half of the population, providing stress relief, home value increase, and more.
- Fresh air and activity help reduce cortisol levels, the ‘stress hormone’ linked to lower mental health.
- A well-landscaped garden can add up to 15% value to your home when sold.
- Grow your food with simple herbs or vegetables, and stay active.
- Composting is an excellent way to provide vital nutrients to plants and reduce fertilizer costs.
If you’re a homeowner looking to add value and beauty to your property, you may want to consider building a garden. Not only does having a garden boost your home’s curb appeal, but it also has many benefits for your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Here’s what you need to know about gardening in the U.S., the benefits of having one, and how you can start building one in your home.
Gardening in The U.S.
Currently, it’s estimated that about half of the overall population in the U.S. is gardening or involved in some form of outdoor horticulture activity. This means that even the busiest individuals can find time to grow their plants and vegetables if they dedicate at least a few hours each week to tending to their gardens. Here are some benefits of having a garden in your home.
Stress Reduction
Studies have shown that gardening can reduce stress levels and improve mental health. It’s a great way to stay active while getting outside and enjoying the fresh air. Gardening has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the ‘stress hormone’ in participants who engage in the activity regularly.
Increased Home Value
A well-landscaped garden can significantly increase the value of your home at the time of sale. According to the National Association of Realtors, a well-landscaped outdoor space can increase your home’s value by up to 15%. In addition, property listings with garden photos are more likely to get views and sell faster.
Fresh Produce
If you want to grow your food, having a garden is a great way. You can start by growing simple herbs or vegetables and gradually increase the variety as you gain more experience. Not only does this provide you with a sense of satisfaction and pride in growing your food, but it is also a great way to eat healthy and reduce your carbon footprint.
Improved Physical Health
Gardening is a great way to stay active and exercise. It involves physical activities such as digging, planting, weeding, mulching, and harvesting. Engaging in these activities regularly can give you a sense of accomplishment, help you sleep better, and improve your overall physical health.
Community Engagement
Gardening is a great way to get involved in community activities and meet new people. Participating in community gardens or volunteering at local garden initiatives can provide opportunities to connect with other residents in your area. This is a great way to build community and share knowledge with others interested in gardening.
Tips to Build a Garden in Your Home
Now you know the benefits of having a garden, here are some tips to get you started.
Build a Patio
The first step should be for you to build a patio. A patio can give you distinct areas in your home where you can garden and improve. Your garden can be messy and muddy without a patio since you don’t have cobblestones or solid paving to keep the soil in place. With this in mind, consider hiring a local landscape paver to help you. They can lay out the patio and provide you with the stones needed to build it.
Choose Low Maintenance Plants
When choosing plants for your garden, make sure you choose ones that require minimal maintenance. In the long run, this will save you time and effort because you’ll need less attention to stay healthy and vibrant. Consider drought-tolerant or native plants, which are often hardier and require less water than exotic varieties.
Create a Composting System
Creating a composting system in your garden is an excellent way to reduce waste and provide vital nutrients for your plants. This can also help reduce the amount of fertilizer you need to purchase, saving you money in the long run. Consider setting up a compost bin or tumbler near your garden to add kitchen scraps and yard waste as needed easily.
Start Small
It’s important not to try and do too much at once when building your garden. Start small with just a few plants that are easy to care for. As you gain more experience, you can gradually increase the size of the garden by adding more plants.
Finally, remember to have fun and enjoy the process of creating your garden. Gardening is a great way to relax and find natural peace while improving your home’s value. With these tips, you can start building your dream garden today!
