Qualitative study reveals enhanced physical functioning and mental well-being in urban African American gardeners, suggesting gardening serves as a viable community health intervention.
Gardening has the potential to improve health by providing access to nature, vegetables, and physical activity. However, scarce research exists on the health impacts of gardening on racial and ethnic minority urban populations in the United States. This study used qualitative interviews to examine the perceived physical and mental health effects of gardening in a primarily African American sample of 28 gardeners. Prominent physical health impacts attributed to gardening included providing an enjoyable source of activity, management of chronic diseases, and improved physical functioning. Participants also reported that gardening improved their mood, relieved stress, was an important part of their spirituality, contributed to their personal growth, and provided an opportunity for helping others. These findings suggest that gardening may improve physical and mental health among diverse groups.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Beavers et al. (2022) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 2 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: