A RECENT survey emphasised the benefits of getting out in the garden and also supports the increasing evidence that exposure to plants, green spaces and gardening is beneficial to mental and physical health.

A total of 92 per cent of Brits believe that spending time in their garden positively impacts their mental health. 

The figures were revealed in a new survey published by lawn-care experts, Greensleeves.

Interestingly, the survey revealed the people getting the most out of being in the garden were those aged between 45 and 54 years, with 98 per cent saying their mental health benefitted. 

This was closely followed by people aged between 25 and 35, with 97 per cent saying their mental health benefitted, and the least affected age group were between 18 and 24 with only 50 per cent reporting any improvement.

There are several mental health benefits attached to getting out in the garden. 

Gardening can make you feel more peaceful and content, and it can also boost your self-esteem and improve your attention span – two things that help you combat feelings of depression and anxiety. 

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.