Preparing to Work in the Garden
Take Clothes, Tools and Snacks to the Community Gardening Plot
There are many things to consider when planning a trip to work in the community garden plot, including food and water requirements, clothing, tools and materials.
Members of a community garden don’t always live within sight of the garden itself. Many gardeners need to ride a bicycle, travel by car, or walk several blocks to get to the garden. Developing a good routine and planning ahead what to bring to the community garden will ensure gardeners are not met with frustration upon arrival to the garden, and that all necessary tasks are completed.
Gardening Attire
Many gardeners have two sets of clothing they wear during gardening season: gardening clothes fall into one pile, and everything else into another! Depending on the time of day, gardeners will want to wear a light, cotton top, either short- or long-sleeved, that breathes well but protects the skin from too much harsh sun exposure. While some gardeners prefer to keep their legs covered up to help prevent scratches and bug bites, others prefer the cooler option of wearing shorts. Comfort is also an important factor.
If heavy digging is planned, a sturdy pair of work boots, work shoes or running shoes with socks provides the best support and is the safest choice for footwear. Flimsy sandals or flip-flops are not a good idea.
A pair of leather work gloves is best if a lot of weeding is planned, especially if prickly plants such as thistles will be weeded from the bed. Alternatively, cloth gardening gloves are a must-have for every gardener who wishes to protect his or her hands from the often harsh conditions of the garden.
A hat that shields the face and neck from the sun is absolutely essential. This should be paired with an SPF 30 sunscreen to ensure burns aren’t suffered.
Garden Tools
Some community gardens are equipped with large shovels, rakes and watering cans. However, smaller hand tools that the individual gardener prefers can be toted along to the garden in a canvas bag, knapsack or bucket. Other implements the community gardener may wish to bring to the garden plot on a regular basis include gardening twine or jute, plant tags and a marker, stakes and seeds. A lightweight foam knee pad is somewhat of a luxury, but will save a gardener’s knees while weeding, sowing seed or harvesting low-growing vegetables such as beans or lettuce. If a key is required to enter the garden, keep it in an obvious location where it can be easily remembered on the way out the door.
Food and Drink
Seasoned gardeners know better than to visit the garden in the heat of the summertime without adequate water on hand. Although water can be heavy to lug around, gardeners should never risk becoming dehydrated while out in the summer sun. Avoid caffeinated drinks while gardening to reduce the risk of dehydration. A light snack that does not require refrigeration, such as crackers or an apple can often satisfy a hunger that arises from hard garden work.
Thinking ahead and anticipating one’s needs in the garden can ensure that much is accomplished by a happy and hydrated gardener in the community garden plot.
