“Gardening is calming, it keeps my mind occupied and it is a positive thing to do. Especially now all the flowers are coming through, it builds up my knowledge about nature and plants. I learnt a lot of gardening techniques from my Mum and Dad and with current circumstances it allows me to feel good and look back at the good memories.
I get a lot of satisfaction from gardening, I went to the plants yesterday and it makes me see that I do have time to allocate to do better and make something ‘grow’ by nurturing them. I didn’t know the plants and stuff but now I do, I know how to handle them growing and it makes me feel good and gives me responsibility. I like the maple trees I have planted.”
“I would just say “fair play” it isn’t easy to start getting into it. I would ask them what they wanted to grow first, is it vegetables or plants? I would explain how to start off such as planting the seed. You have to, especially in the summer, make sure they’re hydrated especially when it is at the seed stage you don’t want it swimming in water only drops of water. It helps with your budgeting as well if you’re planting your own vegetables. If they are planting in a greenhouse and out on open soil you need to watch the slugs and snails with the vegetables – cabbages and cauliflowers you can grow them all year round. I like growing runner beans they are the easiest to grow.”
“Yes, definitely. It gives you focus and you’re determined. It is different with the pots, like planting from scratch. But if you keep at it, show patience you will get some nice plants coming through, it’s about patience.”
Please note, names have been changed to protect confidentiality.
Based in Cradley Heath, Grainger House 24/7 enhanced support to adults with learning disabilities, autism mental health issues and complex care needs. To find out more visit our Grainger House service page.
Image credit Jonathan Kemper on Unsplash
