Gardens Growing Amidst a Global Health Crisis
In the face of unprecedented challenges, a surprising trend has emerged across the United States - a shift towards self-sustainability and relying on local farmers and community-supported agriculture producers. This shift, fuelled by the COVID-19 pandemic, has seen a nationwide increase in first-time gardeners, and it's more than just a passing fad.
Gardening, once a less common hobby before the coronavirus, has become a popular coping mechanism for many Americans. The pandemic and subsequent shelter-in-place orders have sparked a newfound interest in growing one's own food, with Suzzane Perez being one such example. Suzzane, who previously expressed interest in gardening online, has now transitioned to an onsite hobby.
Heather Kirk-Ballard, an assistant professor of consumer horticulture, has noted a resurgence of victory gardens and a high demand for vegetable transplants and seeds. Retail nurseries are selling out of these essentials as people flock to gardening as a means of coping with the stress of the pandemic. A study by the Commonwealth Fund found that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the most stress for Americans, with 33% reporting high levels of stress.
Gardening, it seems, is more than just a stress reliever. It's a tool for relearning patience and the joys of hard work, a way to reconnect with nature, and a step towards self-sustainability. University of California professor Brianne Donaldson has noted potential long-term changes in eating habits due to gardening, indicating a shift towards healthier, home-cooked meals.
Gardens can be created in various spaces, from backyards to balconies, making it an accessible hobby for many. Tools like growbags and landscape fabrics make the work easier and allow for maximum potential.
The therapeutic effects of gardening during the COVID-19 pandemic have also been demonstrated. Gardening can provide a sense of control and purpose, helping to alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression. It's a way to take care of oneself and one's environment, fostering a sense of community and connection.
As the pandemic continues, the spike in first-time gardeners is being closely studied by researchers to learn more about how gardening is affecting people's lives. The predominant regions where this trend is most pronounced are not explicitly detailed, but the pandemic has broadly spurred increased interest in home gardening nationwide due to supply chain disruptions and rising health awareness.
In conclusion, the pandemic has led to a rise in the popularity of victory gardens and a renewed appreciation for the joys of growing one's own food. Whether it's for the therapeutic benefits, the sense of self-sustainability, or the simple joy of nurturing something from seed to harvest, gardening is transforming lives amidst the challenges of the pandemic.
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