harvest vegetables or flowers from their garden .
Wendell Daulton of Nancy achieved a yearslong goal this summer when he grew two “ Indiana Red ” tomatoes weighing more than two pounds . The retired homebuilder has been gardening for more than 35 years .
Those with a particularly green thumb might find pleasure as volunteer gardeners . The Pulaski County Cooperative Extension Service has offered the Extension Master Gardener Program for 21 years , according to horticulture agent Beth Wilson . Participants are trained for 13 weeks in all things horticulture and may volunteer with youth , at public gardens , or other programs from the Master Gardener Association .
Others who are just getting started may want to try relatively easy projects like :
• Cherry Tomatoes : All you really need is a patio , balcony or porch as cherry tomatoes grow really well in pots . While they need to be watered and fertilized more often due to containers leaching more than the ground , they ’ re perfect for seniors with mobility issues . You don ’ t have to worry with aching joints or hauling yourself out to the garden plot where you ’ ll be working on your hands and knees . Plus when you grow cherry tomatoes in containers , you can move the pots to wherever they need to be .
• Garden Markers : A fun activity that can involve your grandkids is painting rocks or popsicle sticks with the images or names of plants to mark what went where in your garden . Making markers is a great way to work on your garden even while sitting at your kitchen table on a rainy day . Crafting also boosts critical thinking skills and enhances mobility .
For 52 years , Cumberland Nursing and Rehab has been a provider of choice for Pulaski and surrounding counties in both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care . Dana Brown , Community Liaison , is available to discuss your specifi c rehabilitation needs and walk you through our admissions process . Make sure to check out our website and visit us on Facebook .
Cumberland Nursing & Rehabilitation 200 Norfl eet Dr Somerset , KY 42501 | 606.678.5104
• Indoor Bulbs : Narcissus , hyacinth and amaryllis can be kept indoors year-round as long as you have a sunny windowsill . Perfect for seniors with limited mobility , bulbs should be planted in glass containers with some pebbles — root side down . Fill the container with just enough water to touch the roots and they ’ ll grow well with minimal care .
If you opt for a garden plot rather than containers , try to have plenty of benches within it so that you can take a break when needed . Using lightweight , ergonomically correct tools and even constructing elevated beds can help as well . Kneel on pads and be sure to wear gloves and supportive boots . Don ’ t forget your hat , sunglasses , sunscreen and bug spray . Keep water handy and a cellphone for emergencies .
Selecting the right plants — avoiding invasive plants and those that require a lot of care — can cut down on your workload .
The most important thing to remember when gardening as a senior is to take it easy . Veteran gardeners know the task can be hard with bending , digging , lifting and hauling .
24 • SENIOR LIVING 2021