Gardening connects generations: Jean's love of nature in Lakewood

Gardening connects generations: Jean's love of nature in Lakewood

What’s blooming in the Cove Community Garden? An inspiring example of intergenerational collaboration comes from Jean Smith, who wants to share her passion for gardening not only with nature, but also with young people. The Cleveland native set up shop in Lakewood in 1985 and found her love of gardening after a yoga class last year. Since then, she has been taking care of her raised bed and making contacts with other gardeners. Loud Lakewood Observer Jean brings her experience and family traditions into play, as both grandmothers were passionate gardeners.

Jean uses old, tried-and-true tips she learned from them to make her garden bloom. Hand soaps and special mixtures of ground eggshells with cinnamon help keep unwanted visitors such as ants away. Red pepper flakes also prove effective against curious squirrels, rabbits and chipmunks. While caring for her “Seven Sisters” red roses, which have thrived for 40 years, Jean even passes on her knowledge to preschool children. In her “Growing in Faith” program, the little ones lend a hand with her to grow plants in the former sandbox.

Intergenerational Gardening: Being active together

The concept of intergenerational gardening, which is also from Gardening know-how is explained, aims to bring older and younger people closer together through joint garden projects. This type of gardening not only promotes the exchange of knowledge, but also provides social support for both groups. Jean is committed to ensuring that seniors can share their knowledge and decades of experience with younger people, which benefits both sides.

What are the benefits of gardening for children? Not only do you learn practical skills, but you also develop a sense of responsibility and build interpersonal relationships with seniors. They learn how important it is to spend time outdoors and enjoy healthy foods. The positive effects on self-esteem and understanding of food sources cannot be ignored either.

A win-win situation for everyone

The benefits for older adults are just as varied. Passing on gardening knowledge gives meaning and promotes physical activity. Jean experienced this when she met the young people from the H2O program, with whom she created garden panels together. Enjoying the fresh air and sharing personal tips and tricks are a refreshing change for older gardeners.

According to a blog post by Bruce J. Black dated Illinois Extension Intergenerational gardening also offers the opportunity to exchange cultural traditions and life stories. It creates space for a better understanding of the younger generations and their challenges - an important element for strong cooperation in the community.

With her work in the Cove Community Garden, Jean Smith impressively shows how much joy and community gardening can bring. Not only flowers and vegetables will grow together, but also interpersonal relationships and a sense of togetherness.