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Experiences of gardening during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-21, 09:36 authored by Kingsley, J, Diekmann, L, Egerer, MH, Lin, BB, Ossola, A, Pauline MarshPauline Marsh
Gardening has the potential to improve health and wellbeing, especially during crises. Using an international survey of gardeners (n = 3743), this study aimed to understand everyday gardening experiences, perspectives and attitudes during early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Our qualitative reflexive thematic and sentiment analyses show that during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic, gardening seemed to create a safe and positive space where people could socially connect, learn and be creative. Participants had more time to garden during the pandemic, which led to enhanced connections with family members and neighbours, and the ability to spend time in a safe outdoor environment. More time gardening allowed for innovative and new gardening practices that provided enjoyment for many participants. However, our research also highlighted barriers to gardening (e.g. lack of access to garden spaces and materials). Our results illustrate the multiple benefits of gardening apparent during COVID-19 through a lens of the social-ecological model of health.

History

Publication title

Health & Place

Volume

76

Pagination

102854

ISSN

1353-8292

Department/School

School of Health Sciences

Publisher

Elsevier Ltd

Place of publication

United Kingdom

Rights statement

Copyright 2022 Elsevier Ltd

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Social structure and health

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