Knox County's Meet Me in the Garden Series highlights gardening for all abilities
Laura Akgerman of Ohio State University Extension, left, explains to attendees at the Meet Me in the Garden Series how to properly stretch before working in their garden to help prevent injuries.
Denise Neff
On Tuesday evening, the Vine and Lawn Community Garden welcomed a crowd eager to learn practical tips on accessible gardening during a presentation by Laura Akgerman, disability services coordinator from The Ohio State University Extension. The educational talk, titled “Gardening for All Abilities,” was part of the Meet Me in the Garden series, sponsored by the Knox County Local Food Council.
Akgerman’s presentation focused on inclusive gardening practices, helping attendees understand how to safely and effectively enjoy gardening regardless of their physical abilities. She explained that it is The Ohio State University’s mission to support farmers with disabilities, provide technical assistance, and help them stay actively engaged in their work. Drawing from this mission, Akgerman shared a variety of tips that apply to gardeners of all backgrounds and abilities.
Throughout the evening, she encouraged gardeners to be mindful of their physical and mental well-being while working outdoors. She discussed how important it is to consider one’s energy levels before beginning garden tasks, especially during hot weather. Drinking plenty of water, being aware of sun exposure, and understanding how medications may interact with heat and physical exertion were emphasized as key points for personal safety.
She also stressed the importance of staying aware of how you feel physically while gardening. This includes recognizing early signs of fatigue or discomfort. Akgerman explained that being mindful in the garden helps prevent injuries and enhances the overall experience.
Audience members were invited to stand up and stretch as Akgerman demonstrated the importance of warming up before gardening and staying flexible. She reminded attendees to pay attention to posture and mobility, especially when lifting or moving tools and equipment.
Akgerman also addressed safety in and around the garden. She encouraged participants to stay alert to hidden hazards in walkways and to make sure their vision is not obstructed by hats or other items. Noise safety was also discussed, with a reminder to wear ear protection when necessary or be aware of potentially loud environments.
To support safe gardening practices, Akgerman demonstrated proper lifting techniques and passed around a variety of gardening tools, allowing attendees to become familiar with their features and ergonomic designs. She discussed the importance of selecting tools that reduce physical strain and encouraged safe storage practices, including proper shelving in sheds, to minimize risks and maintain organized spaces.
The Meet Me in the Garden series will continue on Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. at the Faith Lutheran Community Garden, 170 Mansfield Ave, Mount Vernon. The upcoming session, “Cooking with Garden Produce,” will offer tips on preparing fresh, healthy meals using ingredients grown directly in the garden.
The Vine and Lawn Community Garden currently offers 26 community garden beds, with plans to build eight additional boxes soon to meet growing community interest. For more information about the Vine and Lawn Community Garden, visit 1009 E. Vine St., Mount Vernon, or call (740) 397-5721.
