Gardening has many health benefits, but during the summer months it’s especially important to protect yourself from the sun, poor posture, dehydration, and fatigue. Gardening in the heat can be thirsty work, so you need to ensure you take plenty of breaks as well. By investing in the right tools and following a few safety tips, you can make your yard work much easier, however. You can even get the kids involved and teach them to follow a few gardening safety best practices. Here are a few simple safety tips for gardening in the summer.
Wear gloves at all times
Even if your hands are getting a little toasty, it’s advisable to keep your gardening gloves on at all times. These will help to protect your hands from spikey plants, sharp tools, pest surprises, and harmful chemicals. You should invest in gardening gloves for the whole family, especially if you’re getting the kids to help you during summer vacation. Here is a list of the best gardening gloves for all types of tasks according to gardening experts. You may also want to invest in other protection such as overalls, boots, and goggles for bigger jobs.
Avoid too much sun
During the summer months it’s important to take plenty of breaks in the shade. You could also wear a hat to protect you from the sun. Don’t forget to top up the sunscreen as well. This will not only prevent the signs of aging skin but also help to ward off sunburn and heatstroke. Another good idea is to do the majority of your gardening at less sunny times of day, such as the early morning or evening.
Work at a raised height
It’s essential to protect your posture while gardening, whatever the season. You could try working at a raised height, on a table or work station, for example. Gardening involves bending and lifting so be mindful of doing both correctly. Take care of your posture during other aspects of your life as well, to help prevent back pain while gardening. Ensure your workstation is ergonomically correct, for instance. Your employer should provide this, if not trusted injury lawyers can help you with your case. Try to develop an awareness of your posture at all times.
Invest in ergonomic tools
Another way to protect your back, wrists, and hands is to use the best types of ergonomic tools. Certain tools come with back-saver attachments or specially designed handles. Invest in adjustable tools that you can set to a comfortable length or height. Choose ones with a good grip as well. It might also be a good idea to use planting carts on wheels, or a collapsible wheelbarrow to avoid lifting heavy pots and garden waste. Check out what you can find online or at your local garden center.
Take breaks and stay hydrated
Gardening in warmer weather can be tiring so take plenty of breaks and remember to stay hydrated. Keep a water bottle nearby or go inside and make something refreshing to drink. This way you’ll be able to enjoy gardening for longer. Another good idea is to do some stretches during your breaks, or before and after gardening.
Get the whole family involved
Rather than slaving away on your own in the yard, why not get the whole family involved? They can help you with some of the heavy lifting so you don’t succumb to summer fatigue too quickly. There are also many benefits of gardening with kids. You can take the opportunity to teach them about the natural ecosystem and healthy living. Getting in touch with nature is also very therapeutic. It’s a great stress reliever and improves your mood. This is why gardening can be such a rewarding hobby for kids to get into. Don’t forget to go over all the safety rules and best practices before you start.
Keep an eye out for pests
Although you want your garden to be a haven for wildlife, it’s important to keep an eye out for pests, especially in summer. Depending on the climate where you live, you might get more rodents, wasps, and other insects that sting. It’s best to be on the lookout for these. Whereas many garden grubs are harmless, some could also eat away at your crops. You can use this garden pest directory to help you identify any new critters in your yard. This way you can ensure a safe space for you and your family to watch your efforts bloom this summer.