Gardening for Good Health

By Alissa Burke, an Adult Services Librarian at Morton Grove Public Library.

Although we are staying home due to the COVID-19 virus, there are plenty of activities to do around the house. Spring is officially here, which means that it's time to begin tending to your garden! Whether you have a backyard or a balcony, there are plenty of ways to get started.

Why garden?

Gardening is a great way to relieve stress. Being outside gives you a break from screens, helps combat loneliness, and is great exercise! Gardening is also good for our mental health. It is a reminder to stop and be mindful of our surroundings and connect with our natural landscapes.

Eat what you grow!

Eating the fruits and vegetables you harvest is a rewarding experience. Not only can it encourage a healthier diet, but it creates a visceral connection from eating the food you’ve planted, watered, and taken the time to care for.

How to get started?

Start slow! Planning out a garden can be overwhelming, especially if you’re a beginner. Fear not: there are plenty of resources out there for all types of gardens. Below are some resources to help you get started. One thing to remember is that no matter how carefully you plan your garden, there are factors you can't predict—bugs, weather, rodents—that are all part of the experience.

Gardening Resources

The Library has a great collection of ebooks available for checkout, including:

• The Postage Stamp Vegetable Garden by Karen Newcomb
• Composting for Dummies
• Grow All You Can Eat in Three Square Feet
• Five-Plant Gardens by Nancy Ondra
• Container Theme Gardens by Nancy Ondra

Other helpful resources:

• The Farmers Almanac Growing Calendar for Morton Grove, IL
• Composting 101
• The Farmers Almanac: Starting Seeds Indoors
• Garden Planning and Design
• Small Vegetable Garden Plans and Layouts
• Free Garden Planners
• Urban Gardening: Rooftops, Balconies, and Small Spaces