More than 90% of Brits believe that spending time in the garden benefits their mental health, according to a survey published by lawn experts Greensleeves.
The survey, commissioned by Greensleeves in mid-March, found 92% of a sample of almost 5,000 respondents believed the notion.
According to David Truby, managing director of Greensleeves, due to the Covid-19 pandemic in the past two years, people got incredibly stressed, and as a result, increased their mental health issues.
He said: “Throughout the ages, gardens have been essential to our daily lives.
“Our green spaces aren’t only a place to grow plants and vegetables, they are also areas for people to relax, focus and connect with nature and each other.
“The results from this survey highlight the role getting into the garden, or green space can play in tackling the UK’s increasing mental health problem.”
The survey revealed that 98% of people aged between 45 and 54, and 97% of people aged between 25 and 35, were positively benefited by being in the garden.
However, just 50% of people aged between 18 and 24 believe that spending time in the garden would benefit their mental health.
Truby added: “ Over the past two years, we have seen a 25% surge in the demand, as many people using their green spaces to boost their mood.
“We really have seen first-hand the benefits of having a nice outdoor space and the huge effect it has had on people during this period.
“Things like weeding, digging, and raking are also great exercise, and if you garden with others at a community garden or other group settings, it can encourage friendships to form.”
Featured image credit: Herry Lawford via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 license
