The Mental Health Benefits of Gardening: Growing Joy, One Plant at a Time

I’ll never forget the days when I felt like I was barely holding on. After the birth of my first child, I experienced postpartum depression that left me feeling disconnected and overwhelmed. Each day felt heavier than the last. And I felt like I was drawing very slowly. I randomly turned on my TV one day and found a show with Monte Don as the host. For those of you who don’t know he is a British horticulturalist and shares his own struggles that gardening helped him get through. Desperate for a lifeline, I found myself in the garden one afternoon. At first, it was just a way to escape, to find a quiet moment amidst the chaos. I could put the baby down safely, have him with me, and do something that felt like it mattered for a tiny moment. As I dug my hands into the soil, planted seeds, and watched them grow, I began to feel something I hadn’t in months: hope.

Gardening became my therapy, my solace, and eventually, my joy. I felt calmer, more grounded, and more connected to myself and the world around me. Science confirms what I discovered firsthand—gardening is a powerful tool for improving mental health. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or simply looking for a way to feel more at peace, gardening can help you grow a healthier mind and a happier life.

The Science Behind Gardening and Mental Health

Gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s a multi-sensory experience that stimulates our brains and bodies in remarkable ways. When you garden, you engage several senses—touch, smell, sight, and even sound—which activates different parts of your brain and fosters mindfulness.

One of the key players in this process is oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.” Studies show that nurturing plants and watching them thrive can release oxytocin, which fosters feelings of connection, trust, and happiness. This is why gardening can create such a profound sense of well-being—it taps into our innate desire to nurture and be nurtured in return.

Gardening also triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that stabilizes mood and promotes a sense of calm. Exposure to soil microbes, specifically Mycobacterium vaccae, has been shown to increase serotonin production, acting as a natural antidepressant. This explains why simply getting your hands dirty can leave you feeling happier and less stressed.

Finally, spending time in the garden reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Whether you’re weeding, planting, or simply sitting among your plants, the act of being outdoors and immersed in nature calms your nervous system and lowers stress levels.

Three Garden Activities to Boost Mental Health

The beauty of gardening is that you don’t have to be an expert to reap its mental health benefits. Here are three simple, effective activities that can bring peace and joy to your day:
1. Planting Seeds
There’s something profoundly hopeful about planting seeds. As you place each tiny seed into the soil, you’re making a promise to the future—a commitment to nurture life and watch it grow. The act of planting can be meditative, allowing you to focus on the present moment and let go of worries. Plus, the anticipation of watching those seeds sprout can bring a sense of purpose and excitement.

2. Weeding
Weeding might seem like a chore, but it’s one of the most therapeutic activities in the garden. As you pull weeds, you’re not just clearing space for your plants—you’re creating order and taking control. This physical act of “decluttering” can mirror the process of clearing mental clutter, leaving you feeling calmer and more focused. The repetitive motion of weeding also has a meditative quality, helping to quiet a busy mind.

3. Harvesting
Harvesting the fruits (or vegetables) of your labor is one of the most rewarding experiences in gardening. The process of gathering what you’ve grown fosters gratitude and a sense of accomplishment. It’s a moment to reflect on your efforts and enjoy the tangible results of your care and dedication. Whether it’s a handful of herbs or a basket of tomatoes, harvesting reminds us of the beauty and abundance of life.

Gardening as Nature’s Therapy

Gardening offers a unique blend of physical, mental, and emotional benefits, but its connection to nature is what sets it apart as a therapeutic practice. When you garden, you’re not just tending to plants—you’re fostering a relationship with the natural world.

Numerous studies have shown that spending time in green spaces improves mood, reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, and even enhances cognitive function. This phenomenon, known as “biophilia,” suggests that humans have an innate connection to nature, and nurturing that connection can significantly improve our mental health. I firmly believe that everyone would nurture their connection with nature. It would truly help so many different ailments.

Making Gardening Accessible to Everyone
You don’t need a sprawling yard or a green thumb to enjoy the mental health benefits of gardening. A small raised bed, a few containers on your balcony, or even a windowsill herb garden can provide the same sense of peace and fulfillment. The key is to create a space where you feel comfortable and inspired.
If you’re new to gardening, start small and focus on plants that are easy to grow, like herbs or leafy greens. As you gain confidence, you can expand your garden and try new techniques. Remember, gardening is a journey, not a destination—so take it one step at a time.

A Garden for Every Season, and Every Soul

My journey with postpartum depression taught me that healing often comes from unexpected places. For me, it was the garden. It became a sanctuary where I could reconnect with myself, find peace, and rediscover joy. It’s one of the reasons I started my business. I wanted to share that with everyone I could.
No matter where you are in life, gardening can offer the same solace and inspiration. It’s a simple yet powerful way to care for yourself while nurturing the world around you.

Call to Action: Let’s Plan Your Dream Garden

If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a garden that nurtures both your plants and your soul, now is the perfect time to start. Homegrown and Harvested is currently booking consultations for winter, so we can help you plan and design your garden for 2025. Let’s work together to create a space that brings you joy, peace, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Ready to grow a garden and grow your happiness? Contact us today to get started!