411homerepair.com

Fallacy of a Green Thumb

by Dan Eskelson on Apr 30, 2012

Some of our clients have expressed a desire to grow their vegetable or flower gardens, but believe they don't have a "green thumb." This is nonsense - a green thumb is learned, just like other skills in life. The beginner's learning process may produce a few failures, but each new lesson builds the knowledge required for success. The joy and satisfaction of producing your own food or beauty are well worth the effort to get started. (actually, a "green" thumb should be brown - go to work and get all your fingers dirty!)

The benefits of gardening are enormous; aside from personal satisfaction, gentle exercise helps to keep the body young. Walking, bending, kneeling, and stretching in the fresh air is not only good for us but necessary in our sedentary society. The sometimes vigorous operations of soil preparation are excellent aerobic exercises. As a group, farmers suffer fewer serious illnesses than the rest of society.

Mental health is improved also - the hectic, often frustrating pace of our daily lives can be tempered with the slower, rhythmic patterns of garden chores. The lessons learned from observing and working with nature help to relieve the fears and anxieties of modern society. It is interesting to note that gardening has become a successful tool for the treatment of seriously ill mental patients.

Another major benefit of growing your own is quality; I challenge any supermarket to sell produce that tastes as good as what we grow in our home garden. We've noticed that our children readily consume homegrown vegetables but often leave much of the store bought produce for the compost pile. The healthy exercise of gardening yields the healthy fiber, beta-carotene, and minerals necessary for the body...or for the ornamental gardener, the beauty, fragrance, and tranquility necessary for the soul.

The best advice for the novice gardener is to start small; a well-prepared small garden will yield plenty of produce or ornamental beauty. As skills and confidence grow, gradually increase the garden's size to fit your time and energy commitments.

Also, read one or two basic gardening books, but don't get overwhelmed with the intellectual process - you will learn far more working with your soil and plants. Consult with successful gardeners in your neighborhood; they have learned the varieties and techniques which work in that specific microclimate. Most gardeners are very happy to share knowledge.

Remember to take the time for casual observation. Much can be learned from watching the progress of your garden over the months. Each specific site has its unique characteristics and requires the gardener to adapt accordingly.

Good luck with your gardening season! Be kind to the land, the plants, and yourself.

Latest Articles

10 Concrete Patio Ideas on a Budget

A concrete patio can be a game-changer for your outdoor space. It is durable, versatile, and can be customized to fit your style. But what if you...

on Mar 25, 2025

Tips for Creating a Stunning Personalized Photo on Canvas

Order the unique beauty of a personalized photo on canvas and bring your memories to life. With a customized photo on canvas, you can transform...

on Mar 7, 2025

Best Areas to Buy Property in Singapore for Long-Term Growth

Singapore's real estate market remains one of the most stable and lucrative in the world. With limited land supply, strong governmental...

on Feb 18, 2025

Troubleshooting Excess Water in Your HVAC Secondary Condensate Drain Pan

When maintaining your air conditioning system, it is easy to overlook the condensate drain pan - until excess water starts pooling in places where...

on Jan 12, 2025

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): A Beginners Guide

By combining the advantages of stock market and real estate investing, Real Estate Investment Trusts, or REITs, offer an alluring investment...

on Dec 19, 2024

Sponsored Articles

Actions

More DIY Articles

The Basics of Front Load Washers

Front load washers can help anyone that is interested in saving money, reducing energy consumption, and adding some modern technology to their...

Appliance / Repair

Easy to use Front Load Washers

Washing laundry is usually not a favorite household chore, but with many of the new front load washers, it can be a lot easier and more enjoyable....

Appliance / Repair

How to Care for Your Stucco Exterior

Stucco is the most common siding material for homes across the world. It has been in use since the ancient Roman and Greek civilizations and became...

Construction / Materials

Appliance Maintenance: Appliance Repair Tips Homeowners Need to Know for DIY Home Repairs

If you want to repair some of your appliances yourself, there are tips that you need to know. These tips will ensure that your appliances last as...

Appliance / Repair

Benefits of Having Door Canopies to Shelter to the Door

The typical homeowner is always looking for something that makes his or her home more comfortable, more energy efficient and more desirable in the...

Doors / Garages

Contact Us | Submit Article | 411homerepair © 2025