Bethesda’s Guide to Community Gardens in St. Louis

Seniors who are interested in exercising their “green thumb” and taking part in a project that will benefit their community may find community gardening to be an ideal solution. Luckily, there are many community gardens in the St. Louis area that are not too far from most neighborhoods or a Bethesda community.

FINDING A GARDEN

Seed St. Louis is a large non-profit organization that lists numerous locations around the St. Louis area for people to gather and garden together. Here are community gardens in areas close to some of our Bethesda communities:

• Webster-Rock Hill Ministries (Webster Groves near Bethesda Orchard, Pacific Place, The Oaks at Bethesda, Bethesda Hawthorne Place, and Bethesda Dilworth)
• Twillman House Community Garden (Spanish Lake near Village North Retirement Community and Christian Extended Care and Rehabilitation)
• Cliff Cave Community Garden (Oakville near Bethesda Terrace and Bethesda Southgate/Charless Village)

STAY SAFE WHILE GARDENING

As the warmer summer months approach, seniors need to take extra care to remain safe in the heat. Wear a hat and other protective clothing when outside and continually apply sunscreen. If you can, try to work earlier in the day when the sun is low. Make sure to remain hydrated and follow these gardening safety tips:

• Wear gardening gloves to reduce the risk of cuts and irritations
• Only use tools that are easy to handle and use
• Make sure vaccinations are up-to-date, especially tetanus

BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY GARDENS

People coming together to work towards a common goal helps build communities. Participating in a community garden will allow seniors to:

• Exercise both body and mind
• Feel part of the community
• Connect with people of all ages

Mental & Physical Exercise

Gardening exercises the mind as well as the body, and can:

• Help prevent the onset of dementia and alleviate symptoms
• Reduce stress
• Provide a social outlet

Be Part of a Community

By coming together with those with similar interests, seniors will feel included in the community. People who establish connections with others and feel like they can make a difference tend to lead happier and healthier lives.

Connect With People of All Ages

Connecting with young people benefits both them and their senior companion. Intergenerational communication is important for the betterment of younger generations and the health of seniors. Bringing these two age groups together in a positive environment makes their community a better place to live.

Opportunities to participate in community gardening take place all year round. With all these options in the local area, now is the perfect time to get out in the St. Louis community and garden!

Explore St. Louis’ neighborhood gardens with the senior in your life, and for more ideas, explore Bethesda’s Health & Wellness blog.