Amidst the stagnant feeling of social distancing during COVID-19, many are finding relief in the opportunity to watch something grow. Partly in thanks to the pandemic’s seasonal timing, gardening hobbyists new and old are sprouting up like weeds.
Local garden centers are experiencing an influx of new customers who are looking to add some green to their interiors, straighten up their backyards and grow their own foods.
“Our foot traffic has actually gone up as well our as sales over last year,” said Kevanie Counts, marketing director of Earth Works. “[Business] does seem to be more do-it-yourself projects like vegetable gardens, butterfly and perennial flower gardens. I think in a typical year folks have the weekend to get their projects done and they are limited. This year we often see the same people in day after day working through their project a step at a time.”
Although garden centers are the few businesses that have remained strong during the pandemic, many have adapted additional practices like curbside pickup and online services to provide a safer environment for cautious shoppers. The centers are still open for walking through, however, as they have been deemed essential by the state.
While gardening may not seem like an “essential” activity, many are using the hobby to cope, and surprisingly, finding the health benefits aren’t only physical.
The Kaiser Health Foundation recently released a report looking at how COVID-19 has impacted mental health in the U.S., showing in just two weeks an increasing number of Americans reported a negative effect of their mental health regarding the pandemic, from 32% to 45% in mid to late March.
Henry David Thoreau wasn’t the only one to point out the calming impact of a natural setting. A number of scientific studies have shown that nature experiences may benefit people's psychological well-being and cognitive function. Gardening may be one way to social distance while reaping those positive effects of nature on mental health and staying safely distanced.
Right now, many local garden centers are aiming at inspiring projects while facilitating planning for those wanting to create their own backyard oasis.
“Earth Works Gardens is great place to wander among three acres of lush plants, palm trees, unique water features waterfalls, natural styled fountains, ponds, a huge selection colorful pottery and cool garden art,” said Counts. “Getting outside in nature is always a healthy option. It reduces stress and give us much needed vitamin D.”
According to a study from the University of Washington, interaction with nature can even lead to “a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life." A lifeline for many faced with the stress of uncertainty and isolation the pandemic has resulted in.
For those looking to take in their first long breath of fresh air, Count recommends starting a butterfly garden.
“We are ordering huge quantities of milkweed for the monarchs,” Counts said. “Butterfly gardening is a great place to start. Plant hardy perennials that do well in North East Florida. The results are beautiful, natural and are productive at helping our pollinators.”
As the saying goes these days, “when going gets tough, the tough get to growing.”
