Activity ideas: Spring-ready garden

Gardening brings great joy and fulfilment to many people. This can continue as dementia progresses, though adaptions may be needed. Preparing for spring and taking advantage of its arrival can provide many meaningful activities. 

In February, this could include sprouting seed potatoes so they’re ready for planting, pruning winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering, and preparing vegetable seed beds.

In March, shallots and immature onions may be planted, as can early potatoes and bulbs that flower in summer. 

Consider what tools would be appropriate – if a person may not be able to use a tool safely themselves, can they be supported to do so? Think also about whether the plants are poisonous, have sharp edges, thorns or skin irritants.

There are often alternatives that an unsuitable favourite could be substituted with. For example, replace Christmas rose, which is poisonous and may irritate the skin, with wake robin (Trillium grandiflorum) or barrenwort (Epimedium). 

For people not as familiar with gardening, the Royal Horticultural Society provides helpful information and advice.

A person who enjoys gardening but doesn’t have access to a garden may like sowing herbs and flowers in indoor pots. These plants could be re-potted as they outgrow their containers.