Last updated on December 2nd, 2011
WHY DO YOU GARDEN? For the exercise that planting, weeding and cultivating affords? For the joy of watching things grow? For savoring, in early spring, baby lettuce leaves and fresh, succulent sweet peas — like those pictured up top?
I garden because I can’t help myself. Through all seasons — indoors or out — I crave intimacy with nature, and a view of living things. I garden for the sweetness of strawberries, the fragrance of a rosebud, the mystery of an unfolding leaf. These things I have enjoyed since earliest memory.
And how about you? What are your reasons for gardening?
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Brigid says
A home's garden is a testament to the civility of its inhabitants. Besides, my house just looks prettier surrounded by flowers.
Andrew Thompson says
I also garden in order to have contact with nature. And the fresh produce, including heirloom tomatoes, is a bonus.
Randy J says
It is my enjoyment, my therapy, my relaxation as well as my vocation. I could not imagine not gardening.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Brigid – love your “civility” aspect of gardening!
Andrew – yes, heirloom tomatoes. How else, but from your own labor, could you acquire these?
Randy J – Likewise, I could not imagine NOT gardening!
Allison says
Believe it or not, I garden in order to see butterflies. They are drawn to the violet zinnias I plant outside my kitchen window each summer.
Justin says
Kevin, like you, I garden to achieve a beautiful view when I look out my windows. Right now the snow is melting, and I see SO much work that needs to be done. I look forward to the spring thaw. Then it will feel good to get my hands in the soil.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Allison – Butterflies are a great reason to garden!
Justin – Ditto here; can't wait to get my hands dirty.
Yolanda says
For me it's mostly about edibles. I garden for (oh, so) sweet corn on the cob, Kirby cucumbers dressed with a splash of vinegar, fresh green beans steamed with equally fresh tarragon, and GREEN tomatoes lightly sauteed in olive oil.
Adele says
I garden for the sake of a beautiful yard, and also weight loss. According to my bathroom scale, I add in winter and subract in summer. Sort of a yin and yang thing.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Yolanda – You are making me hungry.
Adele – I've noticed the same thing regarding weight gain and loss. I tend to lose weight in summer for two reasons: exercise and a healthier diet, both accomplished through home-gardening efforts.
Jim says
I garden because putting my hands in the earth makes me stop thinking so much.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Welcome, Jim! I agree with you. Working with plants is a great way to achieve serenity in an otherwise chaotic, pressure-filled world.
Charlotte says
Although I've always grown flowers outside my house, last year was my first (dismal) attempt at vegatable gardening. And I did it to keep me occupied while dealing with chemo. This year I WILL be succesful. I was the satisfaction of knowing I'm growing 'antioxidents' to help me and my family.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Charlotte – welcome! Yours is one of the BEST reasons ever to take up vegetable gardening. All my best to you. Please visit us often!