Gardening is a healthy pastime in many ways. It offers the opportunity for low impact exercise, making it a suitable pursuit for individuals of different ages and abilities. As the Better Health Channel notes: “people with disabilities, seniors and children can find it especially rewarding[1]” as an avocation that is truly inclusive. Gardening gives individuals a chance to connect more closely with their food supply if growing edible plants. It allows family members or neighbors to work together on a project that reduces stress and offers quiet, meditative work. There are plenty of reasons to go start a garden in your yard or neighborhood, at your church or school. But Gardening Food Safely should be on the forefront of everyone’s minds.
Did you know “fresh veggies and fruit from non-organic gardens may have trace amounts of chemicals such as pesticides. All of these have the potential for making you and your family very sick, so cleaning harvested fruits and veggies is crucial prior to prepping a meal.” Read more at Gardening Know How: Washing Garden Vegetables: How To Clean Fresh Produce https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/washing-garden-vegetables.htm
Following the suggestions below will help safeguard health while reaping all the rewards gardening has to offer:
Keeping these guidelines in mind, you can get out and get gardening safely. Gardening is a great way to beautify your community and enjoy the beauty and bounty of nature. Pace yourself, use common sense and keep an eye on the children and elders who might be working alongside you. As much as possible, opt to go organic. Sprays made from soap, garlic and hot peppers work well as insecticides. Hand picking pests is the best way to remove them from your crops, just make sure to don those garden gloves!
[1] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/about/about-us
[2] https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/washing-garden-vegetables.htm
[3] http://theconversation.com/at-least-five-reasons-you-should-wear-gardening-gloves-89451
[4] https://ohsonline.com/articles/2010/03/19/power-tool-safety-tips-from-osha.aspx
[5] https://www.nextavenue.org/take-safety-precautions-working-garden/
By: Kate Delany, Contributing Writer (Non-Lawyer)
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