Issue 30One Garden Thing

Sometimes the hardest part of gardening is to put your foot outside the door. It should be easier at this time of year with longer daylight hours but if you are looking out on weedy borders, rising lawn levels, and a general heap of work ahead, then read on, for help is at hand to break things down.
Summer is here, and it’s time to savour those long days in the garden. Forget the endless list of jobs - focus on just one small thing for 15 minutes to breakdown that overwhelmed feeling.
Water WiselySpend a quarter of an hour watering thirsty pots, but do it with care. Target the base of plants in the morning or evening, avoiding leaves. The rhythmic motion of watering can be calming, and tending to plants fosters a sense of connection and responsibility, which improves overall wellbeing.
Harvest HerbsSnip sprigs of mint, rosemary, or thyme to dry for cooking or making teas. Harvesting engages your senses as smelling the aromatic oils and feeling the textures of leaves can lift your spirits and reduce tension.
Tidy EdgesSpend 15 minutes trimming lawn edges or clearing paths by choosing one border or one path. A tidy edge instantly refreshes the look of your garden and gives you a quick sense of accomplishment, boosting your mood.
Deadhead DelightsPinch off spent flowers on roses, dahlias, and bedding plants to encourage more blooms. The tactile task of deadheading is satisfying and meditative, offering a moment to pause and enjoy the beauty of your garden.
Relax in the ShadeFind a shady spot, take a drink, and simply enjoy being in your garden. Watching bees flit between flowers or the sunlight dance on leaf surfaces lets your mind wander to promote relaxation and reduce those feelings of being overwhelmed.
Spotlight on WildlifeTake time to watch pollinators visiting flowers. Noticing the different species of bees, butterflies, or hoverflies helps you feel more present and connected to your garden’s ecosystem. Observing wildlife is also linked to improved mental health and reduced stress.
So set your watch or phone for 15 minutes and choose one thing to get you outside.
Focus on #onegardenthing to lose yourself in for 15 minutes - it will do you the world of good!Issue30NavigationEditor's WelcomeContentsGarden Futures ExhibitionWhat's Gorgeous in the Garden?Quercus Garden PlantsGardening NewsTop 5 Drought Tolerant Perennial Plants for ScotlandScotland Does ChelseaUrban Garden DesignGrow Show-Stopping AlliumsFor the Love of BeesJust 3 PlantsScotland Grows Show PodcastScottish Castle GardensHoliday-Proof Hanging BasketsNTS ROOTSMaking Waves in DundeeWater-Wise GardeningBlooming InverkipThe Misunderstood SlugGrow a New Garden: Lawn CareScotland Grows TestimonialGardening on the InsideThe Burning Garden Waste QuestionThe Confetti BorderFeature Your GardenFloral Foraging for Tea and VinegarGrow Your BusinessTomato Summer Growth and CareJoin The CaleyCompanion Planting To Ward Off Harmful InsectsA Grower’s Guide to GooseberriesThe Indonesian CookOne Garden ThingScotland Grows websiteJordan's Houseplant IndexWhat's On In ScotlandJobs Ahead in June and JulyCome and Chat About PlantsThe Chelsea ReportNext Issue advertScotland Grows SubscriptionArchives