Table Gardens: Making Gardening Accessible for Everyone
Introduction
Gardening is a wonderful hobby that can bring joy and fulfillment to people of all ages and abilities. However, for those who have difficulty bending or reaching, traditional gardening can be a challenge. Table gardens offer a solution, making gardening accessible to everyone.
What are Table Gardens?
Table gardens are raised garden beds that are elevated to a comfortable height, allowing gardeners to tend to their plants while seated in a chair. They are perfect for people with disabilities, seniors, or anyone who wants to make gardening easier on their bodies. Table gardens can be used in a variety of settings, including patios, decks, and balconies.
Benefits of Table Gardens
- Accessibility: Table gardens make gardening accessible to people with limited mobility or who have difficulty bending or reaching.
- Space-saving: Table gardens are a great way to maximize space in small areas, such as patios or balconies.
- Easy maintenance: Table gardens are easy to water and maintain, making them a great option for busy people or those with limited time.
- Therapeutic benefits: Gardening can be a therapeutic activity that reduces stress and improves mood. Table gardens make gardening accessible to people who may not be able to participate in traditional gardening.
How to Build a Table Garden
Building a table garden is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. You can find many free plans online or through your local Cooperative Extension office.
Materials:
- Lumber (cedar or redwood is recommended)
- Screws or nails
- Soil
- Lightweight planting medium (such as peat moss or coco coir)
- Drip irrigation system (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut the lumber to the desired size and shape of your table garden.
- Assemble the frame of the table garden using screws or nails.
- Line the bottom of the table garden with a weed barrier fabric.
- Fill the table garden with a mixture of soil and lightweight planting medium.
- Install a drip irrigation system if desired.
How to Plant a Table Garden
Planting a table garden is similar to planting a traditional garden. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose the right plants: Some plants are better suited for table gardens than others. Vining plants, such as tomatoes and cucumbers, can be trained to grow up a trellis or stakes. Compact plants, such as lettuce and herbs, are also good choices for table gardens.
- Use a lightweight planting medium: Traditional garden soil can be too heavy for table gardens. Instead, use a lightweight planting medium, such as peat moss or coco coir.
- Water regularly: Table gardens dry out more quickly than traditional gardens, so it is important to water them regularly. A drip irrigation system can help to automate watering.
Tips for Table Gardening
- Use a raised bed extender: A raised bed extender can be added to the table garden to increase its height, making it even easier to reach the plants.
- Install a trellis or stakes: A trellis or stakes can be used to support vining plants and keep them from sprawling over the table.
- Add a shade cloth: A shade cloth can be used to protect plants from the sun during hot weather.
- Use companion planting: Companion planting is a technique that involves planting compatible plants together to improve growth and yield.
Conclusion
Table gardens are a great way to make gardening accessible to everyone, regardless of their age or ability. They are easy to build, maintain, and can be customized to suit any space or need. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy the benefits of gardening for years to come.
