Man is an intrinsic part of nature and the legendary bond of planter and grower with seed and soil has proved both gratifying and sustaining. As a hobby, gardening scores over others for refreshing results that change as the seasons unfold. In an abstract way, patience and acceptance complement benefits of physical exercise. As a complete therapeutic package, gardening is popular and tops the growing charts.

This green hobby is addictive and an avid gardener can be kept busy reading or net surfing for newer and more effective ways to fight diseases and pests. There is always something that needs to be done outside. Though a time-consuming and tiring effort, unlimited joy is reaped from simple jobs like digging and weeding, planting and pruning. The true wonder of a tiny seed growing into a tall plant or a tree is only understood by the gardener who sowed it. Aching limbs and sweating brows gives way to pleasant and joyful feelings of achievement and a sense of giving back to mother earth. The very feel of soil, root, leaf and flower, their textures and shapes, colors and fragrances, also that special taste that homegrown vegetables seem to offer, firmly underscores the value of gardening.

Many a relationship has been strengthened and bridged over a box of mint or a bed of asters. Children and parents or even grandparents, find common ground in a garden that has been jointly cared for. Experiments in a biology lab fall far short of the actual hands on experience that a young gardener gets from tomatoes or colorful azaleas planted by him. For the older folk, a garden can be a workplace and a retreat all rolled into one. Quiet walks and moments spent admiring roses or shy violets, discovering a new cluster of beans or fresh strawberries are cherished and shared with friends and family.

While some other hobbies, like fast-paced sports, demand practice, heightened concentration and performance, gardening by comparison, only requires a level of involvement that is flexible and non-competitive. A garden is nature's legacy and one that is bountiful and productive to pass on. It is no matter if the bulbs failed to sprout healthy tulips. It makes no great difference if the Cherry tree blossoms late one spring. Nature does not judge; it only blesses and encourages. For if winter be here, spring in all its glory, can't be very far behind!

If you like Gardening....These pages might also interest you:

Allium Directory, Amaryllis Directory, Begonia Directory, Crocus Directory, Daffodils Directory, Dahlia Directory, Hyacinth Directory, Iris Directory, Lily Directory, Tulip Directory

Also see:

A Love Affair With Gardening, Charming Camillias, Firescaping, Gardening for the Family, Garden Rodents, Garden Catalogs, General Gardening Tips. Gardens in the Shade, Hot Summer Cool Garden, How to Plant Leeks, Involve Your Children, Outfits for Gardening, Photograph Your Garden, Plant Care Basics, Using Leaves as Compost, What to Avoid Buying Guide, Cheap Garden Ideas, Creating Garden Berms, Garden Fragrances, Garden Lessons, Gardening for The Challenged, Gardening is Great, Gardening Math, Gardening Tools, How to Use Peat, More About Gardening, Love affair with Lilacs, Organic Gardening, Slow Down and Enjoy, Smart Plant Shopping, Tips for Beginners