Gardening can be fun for people of all ages. And the therapeutic value is priceless. Here are some of the benefits of gardening you will obtain.

• Gardening, even a light to moderate degree, increases flexibility and mobility by strengthening muscle and bone, thus warding off osteoporosis.
• Being one with Nature helps relieve stress, lowering blood pressure.
• Fresh air and exercise help to eliminate sleep problems.
• You'll be getting your daily dose of Vitamin D the natural way, from the sunshine.
• Those suffering from diabetes will benefit from the garden as they eat more fresh fruits and vegetables that they lovingly grew from seed. And, if you don’t have diabetes, you also will benefit from eating healthier.
• Expect to lose some unwanted pounds as you burn calories.
• No more need to worry about pesticides. Grow your own organic herbs, fruits, and vegetables without having to pay extra at the supermarket for this luxury.
• Think of the money you’ll save by not having to hire a gardener.
• Creating, planning, researching information to produce a garden keeps the mind active, staving off Alzheimer’s, and the beauty of your finished product produces a sense of accomplishment.

See what Better Homes and Gardens has to say about getting started. Just follow their easy 10 step plan to a beautiful garden.

For those of you who prefer gardens of beautiful flowers, trees, and shrubs (instead of fruits, vegetables, and herbs), take some pointers from magnificent presentations of Gardens across the country such as the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Virginia’s Historic Garden Week, and Elk Rock Gardens in Portland, OR. Find information on these impressive Gardens on April Vacation Ideas.

Find more information on our Gardening For Kids page.

Read about Virginia's Historic Garden Week.

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