Celebrate National Gardening Day by Starting a Pastime that Lasts for Decades

Debbie Archer | School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences

(University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture image)

April 14 is National Gardening Day. Gardeners and want-to-be gardeners can celebrate by picking up a shovel and planting some seeds or plants, according to Shaun Francis, horticulture specialist for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

“National Gardening Day celebrates a satisfying pastime you can enjoy for decades,” Francis said. “Regardless of what vegetables you grow, producing your own food provides nourishment for your family and saves you money.”

The benefits of gardening come from more than the produce, he said. Spending time in the garden also keeps you physically active and provides an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Gardening is also good for our mental health as it distracts us from the stresses of daily life.

“National Gardening Day is a reminder to plant and grow flowers, vegetables, herbs or small fruits such as muscadines, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries,” Francis said. “Regardless of how you garden – planting in the ground, in containers or in gardening boxes – just do it.”

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Year-Round Home Garden Planting Chart provides a guide on what to plant and what garden maintenance steps to take each month. It can be accessed at https://bit.ly/3u4RVzb.

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.