Are There Mental and Seasonal Benefits of Gardening?

There’s something about getting your hands in the dirt that just feels good. Whether you’re tending to a small balcony herb garden or cultivating an allotment full of fresh produce, gardening is more than just a way to grow your own food—it can be a powerful tool for mental well-being.

The Mental Health Benefits of Gardening

1. Stress Reduction and Mood-Boosting

Gardening has been linked to lower levels of cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress. A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that gardening significantly reduces stress and improves mood compared to other leisurely activities like reading indoors. The act of nurturing plants, being outdoors, and engaging with nature has a calming effect, helping to boost your mood.

2. Gardening for Relaxation

Spending time outside, feeling the soil, and observing the slow but steady growth of plants encourages mindfulness (the practice of being present in the moment). Research from Mind, a UK-based mental health charity, suggests that ecotherapy, which includes gardening, can be an effective treatment for depression. Tending to plants requires focus, patience, and care, pulling attention away from intrusive thoughts and daily stressors.

3. Physical Exercise and Vitamin D Boost

Is gardening good exercise? Absolutely! Gardening isn’t just good for your mind; it’s a surprisingly effective form of physical activity. Digging, planting, weeding, and watering can all contribute to cardiovascular health and muscle strength. Additionally, being outdoors exposes you to natural sunlight, which helps your body produce vitamin D, which has been linked to supporting mood regulation and immune function. 

4. Calories Burned in Gardening

Wondering how many calories you burn gardening? Depending on the activity and your intensity, gardening can burn a couple hundred calories in an hour. It’s a low-impact way to stay active while improving mental and physical health. Whether you’re pulling weeds or carrying watering cans, gardening offers a simple and accessible way to stay fit. It can also help improve your balance, strength, and mobility. 

5. A Sense of Accomplishment and Routine

Watching a plant grow from a seed into something you can harvest and eat provides a tangible sense of achievement. Gardening introduces a sense of routine and purpose, which can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing mental health struggles like depression or anxiety. According to the Royal Horticultural Society, engaging with gardening tasks can foster a positive mindset by offering small, consistent goals that build confidence over time.

So, What’s in Season Right Now?

If you’re feeling inspired to start your garden, we did some digging for you. Here’s what’s currently in season in the USA: 

United States

• Northern States: Winter squash, potatoes, kale, turnips, radishes

• Southern States: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), sweet potatoes, collard greens

• West Coast: Avocados, Brussels sprouts, artichokes, winter greens

For a closer look at in-season European produce visit the European Food Information Council. For a closer look at in-season UK produce, the British Dietetics Association outlines it here. For a more detailed breakdown of in-season US produce, visit the USDA’s Seasonal Produce Guide. 

How to Get Started

No matter where you live, you can start small with a few pots of herbs or greens. If outdoor space is limited, try windowsill gardening or community allotments. The benefits are almost immediate—both for your plate and your peace of mind.

So, why not grab a trowel and get digging? You just might thank us.