Recently, I received an e-mailed letter from a lady who described
herself as disabled. She wrote that she had always enjoyed tending her
garden, but, due to her physical disability, she felt nervous about
trying to work around her flowers and shrubs. She wondered if I had
any ideas that would be useful to physically challenged people such as
herself.

I shared the e-mail with my wife Cheryl who immediately recognized the
importance of the subject. Cheryl went to work on some research, and
what follows is largely based on the response that she sent to the
lady and to others who are faced with similar challenges.

Here are some tips on how to make gardening easier for those with
disabilities, whether they have arthritis, are in a wheelchair or are
visually impaired. Maybe you or someone in your household has
difficulty getting around in the garden, so let's see what can be done
to make it easier and more enjoyable.

Raised beds and planters
Gardening in raised beds and planters makes the plants much more
accessible to reach. A raised bed about 2 to 3 feet wide should work
for most people, but you can make it wider than that if you will be
able to access it safely from both sides. An important consideration
is the height of the bed and it should match the needs of the person
gardening in it. For example, a person in a wheelchair would want the
height anywhere from 18 to 24 inches tall, while someone with
arthritis may want to garden standing and could use a height in the 3
to 4 foot range.

Containers
Instead of planting at ground level, use lots of pots or other
containers such as window boxes at an appropriate height. To help
reduce the weight, use Styrofoam peanuts in the bottom half of the
containers and fill with soil. You can plant just about everything
from seeds and perennials to small shrubs and small trees in
containers. For ease in moving the pots, use wheeled caddies that are
available at most hardware stores.

Hanging baskets
Gardeners who have difficulty reaching up or need to remain seated can
still enjoy planting in hanging baskets. Simply locate the baskets at
lower levels or place them on benches while you work on them at a
convenient height.

Garden up!
Another way to avoid excessive stooping or kneeling is to use
trellises and other types of plant supporters. Once climbing plants
grab hold of the trellis, fence or pergola, they quickly climb to eye
level and beyond, so they can be clipped and trimmed, or simply
enjoyed, while standing or seated. A climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea
Petiolaris) is easy to grow, care free and very long lived. American
Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is another good choice with its
yellow-orange fruit that attracts birds in the fall, or perhaps
English Ivy.

Walkways and paths
Walkways should be a minimum of 3 feet wide. Ramps should be made of a
non-slippery material and a handrail may be necessary. There are many
possible surface materials for walkways. While packed soil is one of
the cheapest, it will be muddy during wet weather. Sandstone pavers
and brick are also good options but will be more costly. Remember,
wood will work, but will be slippery when wet.

Sight and sound
For the visually impaired, choose plants that offer bright colors,
variety of textures and lots of fragrance. A wide assortment of
perennials and herbs works wonders for the senses. Group large areas
of plants according to colors for more impact, as those with only
partial visual problems will be able to locate them easier. Use sound
effectively. Add into the garden chimes, wind mills, fountains, and
birdhouses to create soothing sounds.

For further reading on how to remake a garden to be more accommodating
for those with physical disabilities or limitations, check out these
books at your local library, bookstore or online: "Accessible
Gardening for People with Physical Disabilities: A Guide to Methods,
Tools, and Plants" by Janeen R. Adil "Accessible Gardening: Tips &
Techniques for Seniors & the Disabled" by Joann Woy

The Plant Man is here to help. Send your questions about trees, shrubs
and landscaping to and for resources and
additional information, or to subscribe to Steve's free e-mailed
newsletter, visit www.landsteward.org