As Chelsea Flower Show 2024 enters final day Professor Robert Thomas looks at health benefits of gardening

The Chelsea Flower Show, a globally renowned horticultural event, today enters its final day after captivating gardening enthusiasts with stunning floral displays and innovative garden designs this week. Beyond the aesthetic appeal and creative inspiration of spending time in the garden there are also significant health benefits.

As research continues to uncover the profound impact of gardening on physical, mental, and social well-being, it becomes clear that this age-old hobby is much more than a pastime.

Physical health benefits of gardening

Gardening is a multifaceted physical activity that engages various muscle groups and promotes cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that gardening can be classified as moderate-intensity exercise, which is why it is regarded as an essential part of The Green Gym.

Activities such as digging, planting, weeding, and watering can burn calories and strengthen muscles. For instance, a study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that community gardeners had significantly lower body mass indexes (BMIs) and were less likely to be overweight or obese compared to their non-gardening neighbours.

Moreover, gardening's repetitive and weight-bearing activities can enhance bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, particularly in older adults. The exposure to sunlight while gardening also facilitates the production of vitamin D, crucial for bone health, mood and immune function.

A study in the Journal of Internal Medicine highlighted that adequate vitamin D levels, often boosted by time spent outdoors, are linked to a lower risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. A word of caution, although moderate sun exposure is beneficial, ensure you don't sun burn and cover up areas which are more vulnerable to the effects of the sun such as the head, face and neck.

Mental health benefits of gardening

Engaging with nature through gardening has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. This is partly due to the reduction in cortisol levels—the body's primary stress hormone—when spending time in green spaces. A study conducted by the University of Essex found that gardening for just 30 minutes a week could significantly decrease symptoms of depression and improve overall mood, self-esteem and happiness.

Gardening also promotes mindfulness and relaxation, similar to practices like yoga and meditation. The sensory experience of touching soil, smelling flowers, and listening to the sounds of nature helps individuals stay present and mindful, which can be particularly therapeutic.

Cognitive benefits of gardening

Activities that require planning, problem-solving, and learning, such as garden design and plant care, can stimulate the brain and improve brain capacity particularly in aging populations. Research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health indicates that gardening can delay the onset of dementia and improve cognitive abilities in older adults.

The University of Colorado conducted a study on therapeutic horticulture and found that gardening can enhance memory and attention span in elderly patients. This cognitive stimulation comes from both the physical activity involved and the mental processes of planning and executing gardening tasks.

Social benefits of gardening

Community gardens, in particular, provide a social setting where individuals can meet, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects. This social interaction helps combat loneliness and isolation, which are significant risk factors for mental health issues and chronic diseases. According to a study in the Journal of Community Health, participants in community gardening projects reported improved social cohesion and a stronger sense of community.

Children who garden with their parents or grandparents not only learn valuable skills but also develop a stronger appreciation for nature, healthy eating habits and the process helps strengthen family bonds.

Gardening promotes regular sleep

A recent study found that gardeners, had a 42% lower likelihood of having multiple sleep complaints such as short sleep and daytime sleepiness, compared to non-exercisers. The sleep benefits of exercise were also higher than people who exercised in other ways such as just walking or swimming. Gardening should certainly form part of sensible sleep hygiene and other lifestyle habits to help restore regular sleep patterns.

Nutritional benefits of gardening

One of the direct benefits of gardening is access to fresh, home-grown produce. Gardening encourages healthier eating habits by providing a readily available source of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics published findings showing that gardeners tended consume significantly more healthy fruits and vegetables compared to non-gardeners.

Environmental and holistic benefits of gardening

Gardening also fosters a deeper connection with nature, promoting environmental awareness and holistic benefits. Gardening promotes sustainability by encouraging organic practices and reducing reliance on commercial produce, which often involves environmentally harmful farming practices. Home gardens can support biodiversity, improve air quality, and create habitats for pollinators and other beneficial wildlife.

In conclusion, The Chelsea Flower Show not only celebrates the beauty and artistry of gardening but also highlights its profound health benefits. Scientific evidence supports that gardening can significantly enhance physical, mental, and social well-being. By integrating moderate exercise, reducing stress, improving cognitive function, fostering social connections, and promoting healthier eating habits, gardening emerges as a holistic activity with far-reaching positive impacts.

Whether through a community garden, or simply tending to a few potted plants, engaging with gardening can be a valuable and enjoyable way to improve our health and quality of life.