Tina Matta shares tips on gardening with disabilities
There are ways to garden even with physical or mental conditions that might seem to make it difficult.
That was the message of Oak Ridge resident Tina Matta who is spreading the word on adaptive gardening.
She recently set up a table during the All-Abilities Access Fair, which took place in Oak Ridge Oct. 18.
Visitors created terrariums with small plants, and she said she’d used up all 50 of her jars.
She listed several tips at the event for gardeners.
First, she said, that gardeners with disabilities should focus on pacing and energy management.
“Listen to your body as much as your garden,” she said. She suggested working in small bursts, resting often and taking time to just sit with the plants, which she said people may find enjoyable. She said some apps can help remind people to pause or pace themselves.
Second, she advised gardeners to use the tools that will help them, which might, depending on the person, include tall raised beds, lightweight hoses and automated watering systems.
“There’s no right or wrong way to garden,” she stated. “Only use what works best for you. Every tool that makes it easier is one that keeps you connected to the joy of tending your plants.”
Third, she advised people to choose plants that fit what they’re able to do and are comfortable doing.
She said herbs and leafy greens require less maintenance than other plants, but grow quickly and bring fast rewards. She also said perennials are a good choice because they don’t require “heavy planting or upkeep.”
Finally, she said Grow Oak Ridge offers classes that can be helpful.
For more information on those, visit growoakridge.org.
