The benefits of gardening for wellbeing

Ever since his family moved to Harrow in 1966, Michael and his brothers used to help around the plot. His father loved gardening and no doubt spent lots of time up at their allotment with the rest of the family. Now Michael lives alone, and after retiring took it upon himself to continue the family legacy. Compared to 50 years ago, the activity in the surrounding area has largely decreased. He recounts that “there used to be loads of people in and about the allotments back then, but now it's just me.” Unfortunately, even the pandemic has not rejuvenated the people that once were his fellow gardeners, despite the National Allotment Society (NAS) reporting a 45% increase in online applications during lockdown. Nevertheless, Michael cherishes “the chance to go outside” during a time in which many suffered both physically and mentally while confined to their homes. Thus, following his retirement, the decision to continue gardening into the foreseeable future was largely due to the significant health benefits that accompanied a hobby that kept him active throughout his later years.

But his allotment isn’t just beneficial for him; composting and organic gardening play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing a healthier habitat for local wildlife. Landfill piles decompose anaerobically, 50% of which is methane emissions -  capable of holding 25 times more heat than that of carbon dioxide. Composting promotes aerobic decomposition - a process that doesn’t release any methane into the atmosphere and thus is largely more eco-friendly. In fact, studies conducted by the soil association suggest that “on average, plant, insect and bird life is up to 50% more abundant on organic farms.” The wealth of produce Michael receives throughout the year also has an important impact on his eating habits. By growing fresh crops so near home, he is able to 

enjoy the fruits of his labour free from industrial and societal demands. A report produced by Feedback estimated that in 2013, 40% of fruit and vegetables were discarded at supermarkets purely based on appearance. The rigorous aesthetic and artificial conditions of industrial farming encourages this wasteful production: a practice that bears collective responsibility for its integration into everyday life. 

There is a special focus on upcycling and recycling within Michael’s allotment, both of which are crucial habits that help to offset carbon emissions. Many wooden planks, plastic panels, bottles and other materials are reused in his allotment to protect plant beds from foxes and squirrels, and shield his crops against frost and snow in the winter. In fact, upcycling constructs the greater part of his allotment: the majority of structural development in his plot is entirely composed of upcycled material found scattered around the neighbourhood. By sustainably endeavouring in a hobby he truly enjoys, Michael has managed to maintain a green space that is both environmentally and aesthetically beneficial to the local community.

 While outside, Michael is a delight to the small community built around the shared interest in gardening. All year round Michael can be seen enjoying the sunshine or toiling away in the rain: whatever the conditions, you are guaranteed to see a smile on his face. He is always ready to lend a helping hand or share some of his delicious produce with fellow gardeners. While other allotments might have overgrown and deteriorated over the years, Michael has maintained a verdant and productive space despite the busy council estates nearby.