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APRIL 2024
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FROM THE GROUND UP A Journey Through the Joys and Challenges of Gardening
Picture this: a sprawling garden, an acre of land brimming with life, and a young boy learning the secrets of the Earth. As we step into the vibrant month of April, a season of renewal and growth, I find myself reminiscing about those days and the lessons I learned in the dirt. Growing up, I didn’t always love the chores associated with gardening. Weeding and removing rocks were tasks that often fell to me, but looking back, I realize that tending to a garden was a labor of love. It required diligence, perseverance, and a fair share of sweat equity. Yet, amidst the challenges, there were many moments of sheer delight — from the simple pleasures of preparing the soil and sowing seeds to the exhilarating moments of watching plants flourish and bear fruit. The experience of picking sweet peas straight from the vine and relishing their fresh, crisp flavor embodies the essence of homegrown goodness. Fourth of July celebrations were marked by the harvest of sweet corn, paired with juicy hamburgers grilled to perfection and ripe tomatoes plucked from the vine. And let’s not forget the bumper crop of zucchini at summer’s end, lovingly transformed into fragrant loaves of zucchini bread by my mother’s skilled hands.
As I matured and began raising a family of my own, I sought to impart the wisdom of gardening to Hillary and our children. Living in a neighborhood with limited space, we embraced the concept of raised beds and container gardens, embarking on our own journey of growth and discovery. Hillary, having grown up in the suburbs of Cleveland, was new to the idea of planting a summer garden. When I suggested it, she enthusiastically embraced the concept, and together, we planted herbs in pots on the deck and built raised beds in the backyard. At first, Hillary was delighted with the neat rows of vegetable plants. Every evening, we would tend to our garden, watering, weeding, and monitoring the growth of our crops. However, as the weeks passed, the challenges began to mount. Weeds became uncontrollable, deer grazed on our plants, and bugs left their mark on the leaves. Hillary’s enthusiasm waned as our once-perfect little garden began to look like a mess. The final straw came when she stepped on an upturned rake, resulting in a black eye. Despite the setbacks, each summer I convince Hillary to plant a garden, and she (usually) indulges me. Gardening, I’ve learned, is a
1 Rinehardt Law | BeSmartLegal.com promise of a bountiful harvest. And when we stumble upon a weed or two, let us remember that even the most challenging moments can be transformed into something beautiful with a little love and perseverance. – John Rinehardt So, as we embark on this journey through the garden of life, let us remember the lessons we learn in the soil. May we find solace in the simple pleasures of tending to our dreams, knowing that amidst life’s ups and downs, there is always room for growth and the metaphor for life itself. In a world where instant gratification often reigns supreme, tending to a garden offers a welcome respite — an invitation to slow down, reconnect with the Earth, and savor the journey of growth. Just as in gardening, life presents us with weeds and pests, challenges that can discourage us and make us question our efforts. But it is through these trials that we cultivate patience, resilience, and gratitude. We learn to find beauty in the imperfections, to appreciate the small victories, and to keep pushing forward, even when the path is overgrown with obstacles.
Gardening is a beloved pastime that offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. However, for individuals with disabilities, traditional gardening methods can present challenges. Fortunately, with the right adaptations and tools, gardening can be an accessible and rewarding activity for everyone. Raised Beds and Containers One of the most effective ways to make gardening accessible is by using raised beds and containers. Raised beds can be constructed at a height that allows individuals to tend to plants from a seated position, typically between 24 to 36 inches high. Lightweight containers and hanging baskets are also excellent options, as they can be easily moved and positioned for optimal
access. Self-watering containers can further simplify the gardening process by reducing the need for frequent watering. Adaptive Tools Adaptive gardening tools are designed to make tasks easier and more comfortable for individuals with limited mobility or strength. Ergonomic tools with larger, cushioned handles provide a better grip and minimize strain on hands and wrists. Telescoping or long-handled tools extend reach, reducing the need for bending or stretching. Tools with ratcheting mechanisms or gears can make tasks like pruning or cutting less physically demanding. Additionally, attaching foam tubing or bicycle grips to tool handles can enhance comfort and control.
Gardening for All Adaptive Techniques and Tools for Accessible Horticulture
THE BLOOMING BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY GARDENS
From providing access to fresh produce to fostering neighborhood connections, community gardens offer a bounty of rewards. As spring unfurls its blossoms, now is the perfect time to explore getting involved with one of these shared green spaces in central Ohio. At their core, community gardens are plots of land gardened collectively by a group of people. They come in many forms — urban lots transformed into oases of vegetation, sections of park spaces dedicated to public gardening, or even collections of raised beds in neighborhood corners. Both Columbus and Mansfield are home to several community gardens that welcome new members. Sponsored by the Franklin Park Conservatory, Growing to Green is Columbus’ largest organized effort to promote and provide free community resources for community gardening and city beautification. Initiated in March 2000, Growing to Green has assisted in the start-up or renovation of hundreds of community gardens throughout the central Ohio area (FPConservatory.org/education- programs/outreach-programs/growing-to-green). In Mansfield, the North End Community Improvement Collaborative oversees several neighborhood gardens. A list of community gardens can be found on their website (NECIC-Ohio.org/programs/local-food-initiatives).
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Access to fresh, affordable produce, especially in areas with limited grocery options Opportunities to get physical activity while tending the garden A connection to green spaces and nature in urban areas
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Community building around a shared interest and purpose • Environmental impacts like producing oxygen, preventing soil erosion, and conserving green spaces • Educational prospects for adults and children to learn about gardening, nutrition, and the environment Getting involved with a community garden can be as simple as registering for a plot at an existing garden in your area. If none exist nearby, you might be able to start a new garden on vacant land or in a neighborhood park. Many communities have resources and organizations that support community gardens with tools, materials, and workshops. Partnering with schools, churches, or community centers can provide a strong organizing base as well. As you make your spring gardening plans this year, consider seeking out or starting a community garden. You’ll reap not just the bounty of fresh produce but also a flourishing connection to your community.
Beyond growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers, community gardens germinate numerous benefits for individuals and communities:
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Vertical Gardening Vertical gardening is an innovative approach that maximizes growing space while making plants more accessible. Trellises, arbors, and vertical planters allow climbing plants to grow upward, making them easier to reach and maintain. Hanging baskets and window boxes can be installed at a comfortable height, bringing the garden closer to the gardener. Wall-mounted planters and pocket gardens are other creative solutions that utilize vertical surfaces for planting. Sensory Elements Incorporating sensory elements into the garden can create a more engaging and therapeutic experience for individuals with disabilities. Plants with distinct textures, such as lamb’s ear or succulents, provide tactile
Seating and Rest Areas Providing comfortable seating options throughout the garden is essential for individuals who may tire easily or require frequent rest breaks. Benches with backrests and armrests offer support and comfort. Creating shaded areas or using umbrellas can protect gardeners from the sun and heat. Designing rest areas with space for wheelchairs or mobility aids to be parked alongside seating ensures inclusivity. Gardening should be an activity that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their abilities. Let us cultivate a world where every individual can experience the therapeutic benefits and sense of accomplishment that come with tending to a thriving garden.
stimulation. Fragrant herbs like lavender, mint, or rosemary offer aromatic pleasure. Using plants with bright, contrasting colors can assist those with visual impairments in navigating the garden. Adding wind chimes, fountains, or other auditory features can enhance the multi-sensory experience.
Accessible Pathways and Surfaces
Ensuring safe and easy navigation throughout the garden is crucial for accessibility. Pathways should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or mobility aids, with a minimum width of 3 feet. Stable, non-slip surfaces like concrete, pavers, or compressed gravel provide a secure footing. Installing handrails or guides along pathways offers added stability and support for those who need it.
DIRECTIONS INGREDIENTS Creamy Orecchiette With Chicken Sausage and Spring Vegetables • Olive oil • 1 lb mild Italian chicken sausage • Kosher salt • 2 leeks, thinly sliced (light green/ white parts only) • 1 large fennel bulb, cored and thinly sliced • 3/4 lb orecchiette • 4 tbsp butter • 1 bunch ramps, thinly sliced (bulbs and leaves separated)* • 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 2. Heat a 5–7-quart pot (or Dutch oven) over medium-high heat. Add enough olive oil to generously coat the bottom. When the oil is hot, add the chicken sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Season with a pinch of salt. Continue to cook the sausage until browned, about 5 minutes. leaves, peas, sausage, leeks, and fennel. Bring the liquid to a simmer again. Reduce the heat, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. 7. Drain the pasta and add it right to the sauce. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated pecorino, spinach, parsley, and remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Continue to stir well for a minute or so as everything combines. 8. Plate the pasta. Garnish with chives,
3. Transfer the sausage to a plate and add another drizzle of olive oil to the pot. Add the leeks and fennel, plus a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring often. 4. Meanwhile, add the orecchiette to the pot of boiling water and cook for 1 minute less than the package’s instructions. 5. Transfer the leeks and fennel to the plate of sausage. Lower the heat of the pot to medium and add 2 tbsp of butter. Let it melt. Add the ramp bulbs and garlic. Stir well and cook for a minute or so. Pour in the white wine (scrape the bottom of the pot to release all of the brown bits). Simmer for 2 minutes. 6. Retrieve 1 cup of starchy pasta water from the pasta pot and add it to the wine sauce, along with the heavy cream and lots of freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the liquid to a simmer. Stir in the sliced ramp
pecorino, freshly cracked black pepper, and fennel fronds (optional**). Notes *Ramps are only in season for a short period of time in the spring (typically late-April to early-June). If you want to make this but cannot find ramps, you can use sliced spring onions or shallots. In step 5, cook them in the butter for 2–3 minutes before adding the garlic (omit the ramp leaves in step 6). To slice the ramp leaves, stack the leaves on top of each other and then roll them into a “cigar” lengthwise. Thinly slice across the leaves to create strands (or chiffonade). ** The fennel fronds are the green, frilly leaves attached to the tops of the fennel bulb. While not necessary, I love using them as a garnish. Just like an herb, they add a final pop of fresh flavor to the dish.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream • Freshly cracked black pepper • 1/2 lb green peas (fresh or frozen) • 1 tbsp lemon zest • 2 tbsp lemon juice • 1/2 cup grated pecorino romano cheese, plus more for topping • 4 oz fresh spinach • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
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INSIDE THIS EDITION
1 A Journey Through the Joys and Challenges of Gardening 2 Gardening Can Be Accessible to All A Growing Connection to the Community 3 Creamy Orecchiette With Chicken Sausage & Spring Vegetables 4 Art for Your Outdoor Space
Bringing Creativity and Personality Outdoors As you spruce up your garden this spring, look no further than your own home for decorative elements full of personality and eco-friendly UPCYCLED GARDEN ART
Sparkling Wind Sculptures Suspend old glass bottles, shiny kitchen tools, beaded necklaces, or other reflective objects from a spiral of wire, wood or metal to catch the sunlight and breeze. The movement and flickering creates a mesmerizing visual. Repurposed Planters A chipped enamel tub, cracked ceramic sink, dated suitcase, or virtually any vessel with a cavity can serve as a unique planter box with some drainage holes added. Get extra creative with paints and mosaic tiling. Gardening Tool Decor Flatten the backs of old shovels, rakes, trowels, and other tools, then decorate the handle and metal parts with paints, mosaics, carvings or other designs to make eye-catching yard sculptures or signs.
charm. With a little creativity, you can transform retired household objects into unique pieces of garden art. Creating upcycled garden decor allows you to reuse items that would otherwise end up in the landfill. Best of all, constructing these pieces costs little to no money while letting you explore your crafty side. Here are some inspirations for upcycled art to dress up your garden. Flower Pot People Gather assorted ceramic, metal, or plastic containers of various sizes and use them to build whimsical pot people figurines. Painted faces and appendages made from twigs, utensils, or hardware pieces bring them to life.
Tire Planters and Sculptures Tires of all sizes can be repainted in vibrant hues, stacked into colorful sculptures, or transformed into raised planting containers by cutting openings on the tops. Incredibly versatile! Let your imagination go wild and your garden will gain one-of-a-kind decorated elements that reflect your personal style. Don’t be afraid to get inventive with upcycling in creating functional art for your outdoor space.
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