Gardening is a wonderful activity that brings joy, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment to people of all ages and abilities. We're committed to making sure everyone can experience the benefits of getting their hands dirty and nurturing plants.
A welcoming first impression
As you enter our garden through the main gates, you'll be greeted by a newly renovated nursery area. Originally built in 2009, this space has been transformed into a more functional, productive, and beautiful showcase of accessible gardening.
Key features
Raised Food Cube wicking garden beds
Work benches at various heights accommodating different mobility needs
Weather protection with partial roof and walls
A sink for easy clean-up and market day activities
Food Cubes: efficient and accessible gardening
Food Cubes are an exciting addition to our nursery which we've been testing out in the Sprouts Club area for a few years. These cubes were donated by the amazing Perry and Rose Cho, in collaboration with Food Cube, who have been huge supporters of the garden.
These innovative wicking beds offer some advantages for gardeners of all abilities:
Water efficiency: The wicking system reduces water usage by up to 80% compared to traditional gardens
Raised design: The raised height makes planting, tending, and harvesting easier for those with mobility challenges.
Self-watering: Reduces the frequency of watering, making maintenance more manageable.
Plants for sale: learning and growing together
Our nursery also serves as a hub for plant, seedling and herb sales, offering a variety of plants to purchase and grow at home. All funds from these sales helps support our garden.
Plants are labelled with their price and can be purchased at our weekly Wednesday afternoon garden market.
The benefits of gardening for all
Research has shown that gardening can have significant positive impacts on people of all abilities:
Cognitive benefits: A recent study found that older adults who gardened regularly showed improved thinking skills and cognitive function compared to those who didn't garden
Social skills: Horticultural therapy has been shown to improve social skills and attention in children with intellectual disabilities
Mental health: Gardening has been proven to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall wellbeing
Accessible garden tips and considerations
If you're inspired to create your own accessible garden, consider these tips:
Wide paths: Ensure pathways are at least one meter wide to accommodate wheelchairs and allow for easy movement
Non-slip surfaces: Use textured concrete or other non-slip materials for pathways to prevent accidents
Raised beds: Incorporate beds at various heights to accommodate different needs
Sensory plants: Choose plants with different textures, colours, and scents to create an engaging environment, like the herb patch
Adaptive tools: Provide easy-to-grip tools designed for various abilities
Clear labelling: Use large, clear labels with simple language to identify plants and garden areas
We're thrilled to offer this inclusive space for our community to come together, learn, and grow. A special thanks to our generous supporters, the A.L. Lane Foundation, Fletcher Jones Family Foundations, Perry and Rose Cho and Food Cube as well as our hardworking volunteers including Gilles, Dave, Terry, Keith, Greg who made this renovation possible.
Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, visit our nursery, explore the accessible features, and discover the beautiful setting for yourself. We're not just cultivating plants, but a more inclusive and connected community!
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