Sometimes the energy of youth fades and a large garden can become a burden to keep up with. Short term set backs like replaced hips can result in long term changes to mobility. Or perhaps, priorities change and there just isn’t as much time for the garden.
Don’t sweat the small stuff. An established garden can be allowed to mature with age. Plants may move around and fill in. As trees mature more areas become shade. Or large trees may die and create a sunny patch. Let the plants find their space. Switch from being a gardener to a caretaker that guides the plants but lets them fulfill their own goals. Relax your standards.
Find a gardener. If you can, hire someone to come take care of your garden for you once a week. Better yet, find a young person and train them to take care of your garden while they build their own native garden at home. Perhaps give them some of your more rambunctious plants to start their new garden. Make a point to help or just sit in the garden while the gardener is around to stay involved in the process.
Downsize and simplify. Allow bigger patches of plants to form even if it smothers some diversity. Plant more shrubs in the further regions of the yard to take up space and shade out weeds. Focus your energy on the most beautiful parts of the garden. If an area is getting too weedy, mow it.
Plan for accessibility. Make a path and sitting space that is accessible. Walkers and wheelchairs need flat even surfaces and easy to get out of seating. This may be a back deck or patio or a new space may need to be made. Plan this future need into the design of your garden so that you will continue to have access to this space that brings you joy. Focus on the view out the window from your favorite recliner.
Invest in adaptive gardening tools. There are many special tools that allow you to stand and garden. Gardening stools can give you a place to sit and still be able to dig in the soil. Rolling garden carts can keep all your tools accessible and also be a place to sit. Tools with special grippy handles allow arthritic hands to be comfortable. A walking stick can help keep your balance.
Go to physical or occupational therapy. Gardening is an important part of your life that you shouldn’t have to give up. Advocate for yourself to get the help you need to stay outside. Follow through with your exercises and stretches. Commit to supporting your health so you can be out in the garden for as long as possible.
Aging and disability should not mean the end to enjoying your garden. There are many ways to prepare yourself and your garden for the future. Remember that gardens are living changing spaces. Guide that change to meet your needs in the future.
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