Garden Variety Inclusivity

Gardens For All presenter Terry Underhill talks to occupational therapist Micki Trench and garden designer David Stevens about the types of garden tools available for disabled and elderly gardeners. They also look into the design aspects and science behind disabled garden design. A small change to a design feature such as a raised flower bed can help to give access to and benefit a lot of people.

There are many gardening aids and tools on the market specifically for those who need better access to their gardens. Whether it be a long handled trowel or an easy grip garden fork there are a multitude of tools for the job. Garden design can be fun and there are many websites which offer handy tips for better layouts, better equipment suggestions and plant varieties which will suit all types of gardener. For example raised beds with a clear path with occasional seating or handrails can help with mobility around the garden, choosing the right plants can also be key. Making sure the plants you choose are suitable for the conditions in your garden, which will make you smile and which will be within reach for you.