Gardening Gift for Senior Dads on Father's Day

One of the joys at any age is growing something. For seniors it may be very special, giving a feeling of positive achievement and creating a bond with the natural world that may have been diminished or completely lost.

Let's say Dad isn't going camping anymore. He can't walk very well. He has a bad back and can't bend over. He may even be in a wheelchair. He can't throw the football with you. Oh yes, he can watch the pro football and baseball games on TV.  But maybe he would feel even better if he was growing vegetables and flowers outside some of the time.

If he has any inclination to gardening it might be a great thing to give him or make for him a raised gardening bed (see photo) for Fathers Day--Sunday June 15, 2014. You can pick from any number of sources online and many videos are available on YouTube. Garden Rack has a good one minute video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tQbGud35N4

Here are some things to consider:

1) Is there a hose/water supply nearby (within ten yards and going right to the bed)?
2) Are you using rot-resistant wood or materials? Red cedar lasts a long time,
   redwood is quite good. Treated wood may leach toxicity.
3) Do you have a place for tools, seeds, soil, mulch etc.?
4) Does the bed have drainage? (A necessity for plant health)
5) Where does it drain?
6) Is there nearby seating? A bench or chair?
7) Height: 32-35" is good for a standing person, 24" for a wheelchair. Make the    bed to fit your Dad's height and needs.
8) Are tools for handicapped use needed?--these are readily available.
9) Do you want a moveable bed with rollers on the legs?
10) Is the bed in full sun for vegetable growing?
11) Can the middle of the bed comfortably be reached? (Four feet is a good width if both sides are to be gardened).

Your senior-citizen Dad may not need another tie or shirt. This could be a great present for him--and chances are he'll be delighted to help with the planning.