More people are into gardening because it is a fun and rewarding activity that allows them to get closer to nature. It is also a great way to get exercise, save money on groceries, and reduce stress. Another reason gardening makes sense is they get to create a relaxing space that they can enjoy while in the comforts of their outdoor living space.
Imagine spending lazy days in your deck where you can enjoy the view of your blossoming garden. You can invite guests where you can serve dinner on your favorite 12pc decorated melamine dinnerware set right at your outdoor kitchen and dining area. With your beautiful garden in view, you have more reasons to invite family and friends over and share your love for gardening and nature.
But with all the benefits of gardening, there are also some hidden cons that everyone should be aware of. Here are some solutions to the following disadvantages you may come across while gardening.
Handling Gardening Costs
No one said gardening is cheap. Sure, there are ways you can save money while gardening. But in general, it can be an expensive hobby.
One way to manage this is to plant drought-tolerant plants. These plants don’t need as much water. This way, you won’t need to spend money on irrigation systems or water bills.
You can also save money on plants by going to local plant nurseries instead of big box stores. The possibility that your irrigation system may break is another expense you will need to think about. You can manage this through regular inspection and repairs of your irrigation system regularly and buying a warranty for your system to reduce the chances of a costly repair bill.
Using Harmful Chemicals
One of the main benefits of gardening is getting to eat fresh fruits and vegetables straight from your garden. However, you need to be careful with what you plant because not all plants are safe to eat. For instance, if you have pets, children, or both, you need to avoid planting plants that are toxic.
Another downside to gardening is the need to use fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. While these products can help your garden grow better, they can also be harmful to your health if not used correctly. For best results, use organic gardening methods and wear gloves and a mask when applying such chemicals.
Handling Pests
One of the main things that can frustrate gardeners is dealing with pests. These critters can be anything from aphids to rabbits. There are also disease-carrying pests you need to worry about.
You can manage pests using Integrated Pest Management (IPM). It uses multiple strategies to control pests. This involves natural predators, cultural controls, and mechanical controls.
Another way to deal with pests is by using traps. There are many different types of traps you can use, such as sticky traps for flies, water traps for mosquitoes, and bait traps for rodents.
Accidental Cuts and Scrapes
Gardening can put you at risk of cuts and scrapes. This is especially true if you are using sharp tools. Be sure to wear gloves and long pants when working in the garden to protect your skin.
If you do get a cut, be sure to clean it immediately with soap and water and apply a bandage. If signs of infection develop, seek medical attention. This is especially true if you have a specific condition that puts you at greater risk of infection when wounded.
Overexerting Yourself
Such activity can demand time, patience, and a lot of energy – sometimes more than what you are physically able to give. As a result, you may feel fatigued and, in some cases, even end up sick.
One way to prevent this is by starting small. Don’t try to do too much too soon. And as you get more experience, you can gradually add more responsibilities.
Another way to avoid overdoing it is by scheduling breaks. Take a few minutes to rest and drink plenty of fluids every hour or so. And if you start feeling ill, stop gardening and rest until you feel better.
Don’t forget to take extra care of your skin while gardening. Reapply sunscreen as needed and treat your sunburns accordingly. Avoid working during the hottest hours of the day.
Also, make sure you drink lots of water. Keep yourself hydrated while gardening.
Gardening can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved. So, while gardening does have some disadvantages, there are ways you can manage them. By being aware of these hidden cons and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy all the benefits gardening has to offer.
