Is gardening a women-only hobby? In the wake of Earth Day, the Man Cave speaks up for guys who garden.
Most people may recall a scene from the 1962 film The Manchurian Candidate:
History shows that gardening was often considered a women’s hobby due to the formation of the first organized garden club, the Ladies Garden Club of Athens, Georgia in 1891. Men did not establish their own club until 1932 with the Men’s Garden Clubs of America, now known as The Gardeners of America/Men’s Garden Clubs of America.
Why Garden? Why Now?
My interest in gardening began at the age of 11, and amidst the chaos of the world today, I find solace and fulfillment in tending to my garden. I cultivate various plants that thrive in New England, such as peas, turnips, squash, and tomatoes. My blueberries and strawberries also flourish.
Growing my own food satisfies my desire to be a provider and taps into the self-sufficiency of our farming ancestors. By practicing sustainable gardening and ensuring organic practices, I am confident in the quality of the food I produce.
How Does Your Garden Grow?
Sunlight: Adequate direct sunlight is essential for vegetable growth. Front yard gardening is becoming popular and environmentally friendly, replacing traditional grass lawns with pesticide-free produce.
Go organic: Avoid pesticides and embrace the natural ecosystem in your garden to promote pollination and plant health.
Use organic matter and compost: Enrich your soil with compost and organic matter to improve nutrient content and soil structure.
Give your soil a pH test: Adjust the pH level of your soil to optimize plant growth, ensuring your crops receive the appropriate nutrients.
Go Organic and Avoid the Dirty Dozen!
Grow crops that are part of “The Dirty Dozen” list to minimize exposure to pesticides. Opt for organic produce or grow them in your garden to enjoy pesticide-free harvests.
Connect with other Green Thumbs – or meet in the Man Cave – by joining Senior Planet Community. Details are here.
Gardening’s Social Benefits
Meeting other gardeners: Engage with local garden clubs, exchange tips, and share seeds with like-minded individuals.
Sharing the bounty: Donate excess produce to community centers or share with neighbors, spreading the joy of gardening.
The Next Generation: Introduce children to gardening, allowing them to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature.
Gardening: Food for the Soul
Escape to your garden as a place of solace and relaxation. Embrace the therapeutic benefits of gardening, providing a sense of accomplishment and peace.
Appreciate the rewards of gardening and reconnect with the primal instincts of our ancestors by nurturing your own piece of nature.
Your turn
Calling all male gardeners! Do you prefer growing flowers or food? Share your gardening preferences in the comments below!
Michael J. Tougias is a New York Times bestselling author and co-author of 30 books for adults and nine books for middle readers. His latest book is Extreme Survival: Lessons From Those Who Have Triumphed Against All Odds. Tougias speaks to both business groups and at public libraries across the country. www.michaeltougias.com
