10 Side Effects of Gardening

I want to preface this with I love gardening! It is one of my favorite things to do. Like everything else, there are side effects if you overdo it. There are so many posts about how great gardening is. I do think however someone just getting started would like to know the downsides as well. The benefits outweigh the cons and if you come across this don’t let it stop you from giving it a try. Along with the list of struggles in the garden, I have added some ways to prevent them.

Sunburn:

Like any outdoor activity sunburn may occur. Take breaks in the shade if you are outside for long hours. I usually garden in the morning and evening because I don’t want to be outside in the heat of the day anyway. You should go ahead and invest in some sunscreen. Maybe a hat.

Dehydration:

Especially in the summer months when you have so much fun harvesting and lose track of time. You will need to drink plenty of water! If you feel thirsty or dizzy or develop a headache time to take a break and get rehydrated. The garden will be there when you get back.

Sore muscles

Oh, I feel this one at the beginning of every season. Whether it be from using the shovel or doing several squats per plant. If you are not used to gardening, take it slow. Stretch first even, get warmed up and don’t try and do everything in one day.

Sprains or Back Injuries:

Working in the garden sometimes involves lifting heavy items. Even just for a moment to put it in a wheelbarrow or shoveling dirt. If you bend or lift wrong, you may cause yourself some pain. A simple hole in the yard, could twist your ankle and make you cry. Just go easy and if you need some help phone a friend.

Risk of Poison Ivy/ Oak or other Poisonous Plants:

You will want to do a bit of research for the native plants in your area. Some are poisonous especially if ingested. Try not to touch your face while gardening. If you do come across something poisonous it’s best not to spread it. Wash your hands and or take a shower when you are coming in for the day.

Bug bites/stings.

I’m sure most gardeners will agree. They have been eaten before they even knew it.
Ants: Here in East Texas the ants bite! And they come out of nowhere. Singing in the garden one minute, then you are stripped running for the hose.

Mosquitoes:

This is another one that comes out of nowhere. Especially when there is water nearby. Along with bug lights and bug sprays, there are a few things you can plant in your garden to repel them.
Bees/ Wasps: All though they give a bit of a buzz to warn you these amazing insects that make the gardening world go round, are not always nice. Some do have bad allergies as well. Keep Benadryl and whatever else you need to make sure you are taken care of in an emergency.

Snakes:

If you create a beautiful environment for wildlife. They will come. Be prepared to see all sorts of creatures from squirrels to bears depending on your location. Snakes are a big one around here. Some are good and some may kill you. You have to be very aware of your surroundings while gardening.

Cuts, scrapes and bruises.

Cuts, scrapes, and bruises happen. You might get caught on a fence walking by or find a thorn on a bush just right. Dealing with sharp tools you never know. You may want to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot. Clean cuts thoroughly if it does happen and you can wear gloves to prevent them the best you can.

Hazardous Chemicals:

I don’t use chemicals in my garden. When pests show up in my yard, I do my best to find a natural solution. Sometimes the plant will die, and I will choose a different one that I can prevent the pests organically. If you decide to use chemicals in your garden wear a mask, so you don’t breathe them in. Make sure you wash up good. And keep children and pets out of the area.

Mowing Hazards:

I usually try to delegate this one, but mowing is a big part of making your garden look nice. You will want to wear sunglasses, probably a hat and some pants. Grass goes everywhere you might get a ricochet to the eye.

And you may get a farmer’s tan.

Be careful out there. Knowing the downsides to any hobby and how to prevent them can make or break your experience. Gardening is no different. If it’s fun there is going to be some hiccups. No two days in the garden are the same. I really hope this helps you prepare and get ready to have the best garden season yet! Happy Gardening!

If you enjoyed reading this you can check out this post about how gardening can improve all areas of your life.