Horticulture is a basic human need

Mind Benefits

Gardens are a restorative environment for the mind for many unique reasons. Nature and natural settings unlock and engage what we might call ‘fascination’ in our mind. Fascination is a form of involuntary attention that doesn’t tire us out but rather provides rest and restoration from the directed attention our mind must give most other daily actions in our lives which results in what we call ‘directed attention fatigue’.

Physical Benefits

Gardening combines physical activity, social interaction and exposure to nature and sunlight. Sunlight lowers blood pressure, increases vitamin D levels and the fruit and vegetables that are produced have a positive impact on the diet. Working in the garden can build dexterity and strength and the aerobic exercise gardening provides can burn as many or more calories than the gym. Raking, digging and mowing are especially calorie rich activities. Your landscape and garden really is a gym.

Stress Benefits

Indoor plants and natural green spaces have drawn the attention of the scientific community because they have many benefits: they are shown to enhance job satisfaction in office workers, reduce psychological stress, improve mood , and enhance cognitive health. These effects combined can help in preventing diseases and chronic stress

Community Benefits

Central Kansas District Extension Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who share research based horticulture knowledge and action with our community to promote the well-being and wholeness that horticulture brings to our lives all the way from birth to old age. Learn more about becoming a CKD Master Gardener volunteer here.