The Health Benefits of a Garden

Reap the health benefits of gardening—here are 10 tips for growing your horticultural skills

Beyond the visual appeal of lush plants and flowers, gardening can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. The physical exercise and calories burned lead to healthy weight and blood pressure levels, while the calm interactions with greenery can positively affect your mood and mental health. You may be thinking, “My house plants never make it, how can I possibly keep flora alive outdoors?” Fear not, as keeping a garden-fresh and healthy is not as hard as you might think. Consider these 10 tips for beginner green thumbs and you’ll be on the right path to becoming a successful horticulturist.

Your Horticultural Skills 

1.  Find the right spot. Make sure to choose a plot of land that’s within eyesight. The more you see of your garden, the more likely you’ll spend time caring for it.

2.  Account for sunlight. Before planting, observe how sunlight plays through your yard. Misjudging time in the sun for your plants is a common error by amateur gardeners. If you’re planning on planting fruits or vegetables, most of these need at least six hours of sunlight a day.

3.  Know your water source. It’s important to have easily accessible watering capabilities for your garden. Make sure your garden is close to your hose, so you don’t have to make multiple trips when watering. To tell if your plants need water, simply push your finger down about one inch into the soil. If it’s dry, your plants need a drink.

4.  Soil is key. One of the best ways to help your garden grow is to have nutrient-rich and well-drained soil. Add six to eight inches of this infused soil on top of whatever dirt is already in your backyard. Don’t hesitate to ask for help at your local gardening store before making a purchase.

5.  Pots are still an option. You don’t necessarily need a bed of soil to start a garden. If you live in a more urban setting, consider setting up some pots or containers on your deck, balcony, or rooftop. It’s a great way for those without a lot of space to experience the joy of plant care.

6.  What to plant? Based on your climate, sun exposure, and other potential growing conditions, choosing the right kind of plants is extremely important when starting a garden. Do your homework and learn what common garden plants will need to thrive.

7.  Know your zone. The USDA has divided the country into 13 different plant hardiness zones, based on a location’s minimum winter temperature. Last updated in 2012, a map is available to see what plants survive best in which locations. You can access the map and more information at planthardiness.ars.usda.gov.

8.  Frost is a killer. Plan your gardening season around the last and first frost of the year in your area. The Old Farmer’s Almanac has kept track of this information since 1792, and it can be accessed at almanac.com/ gardening/frost dates. Planting too early can spell disaster for young sprouts, and not planning for fall or winter weather can result in cold-damage. STOP AND
SMELL THE ROSES

9.  Adding mulch. Applying a layer of 2- to 3-inch-deep mulch around your plants accomplish two things: One, it helps reduce moisture loss through evaporation, meaning you’ll have to water less; and two, it will prevent weeds from growing near the base of your plants by blocking out sunlight.

10.  Plants may get hungry. In addition to quality soil, you may want to consider boosting your garden’s growth by giving them plant food. Like other living things, make sure not to overfeed, as this can be detrimental to your plants’ health. But when applied correctly, extra nutrition can help keep your plants healthy for longer.

And, if you don't want to grow your own vegetables, there is always the Loveland Farmers Market.  It's every Sunday.

55+ Communities in Loveland, CO

A 55+ community is a cluster of homes designed to accommodate individuals age 55 and older.  The homes in Loveland that cater to older homeowners and their needs vary in floor plans, community events, and amenities.  Most of these homes are single level living homes and are smaller in size.

Benefits of Living in a 55+ Home

• Sense of Community - easier to make friends
• Maintenance-Free Living - no yard work or snow removal or possibly all exterior maintenance
• Less Worry if You Travel - neighbors watch out for one another
• Safety and Security - some are gated, well-lit common areas
• No Need To Go Far to Visit With Peers - many social gatherings and events
• Support From Neighbors 
• Activities To Keep Active - shuffleboard, game night, movie night, trips, classes, coffee groups
• Better Health - less stress, more active
• Smaller Homes To Care For - most are one level living

Happy Ever After

If you think that a 55+ community is like a nursing home, then think again.  Today's 55+ communities may be age-restricted, but the joy you will get from being a part of the active community will have you asking yourself, "Why did I wait so long to move here?"   Endless opportunities for socialization and relaxation in the beautiful setting of Loveland, Colorado.

Five 55+ Communities in Loveland, CO

1. Seven Lakes - 280 resale homes - clubhouse
2. Boise Village - close to walking trails
3. Country Lake Villa - 25 resale homes - lakefront - gated
4. Mirasol Senior Living  Community - 52 homes - event center, coffee bistro
5. Lakeshore at Centerra - 280 condos -  pool, exercise area, multi-purpose room 

If you are wondering if downsizing is possible and 55+ communities are for you, let me help you explore the possibility.  And, if you aren't ready for that type of community, we can explore patio homes.  There are endless opportunities to have a smaller home with less maintenance and help you have the lifestyle you want.

Another blog that you might like:  Patio Homes - Are They For You 

7 Reasons To Move To Loveland Colorado

Loveland, Colorado has all you will need in a community.  It's known as the "Sweetheart City".  Yes, that's right.  Its population is about 80,000 and it's nestled between the popular college town of Fort Collins, CO, and the state capital Denver, CO.

Here are 7 reason's that you should move here:

1.  With Love From Loveland

Being known as the Sweetheart City has its traditions.   Every February the city has a Valentine Re-mailing program.  It is known worldwide for its hand-stamped Valentines from LOVELAND.  Participants send their Valentine to the Loveland Chamber of Commerce.  Volunteers stamp an official Loveland Colorado cachet and stamp on the cards and mail them to the recipient.  This tradition has been going on since 1940.

2.  Art Culture

Loveland is known for its art.  One of the more popular and recognized art shows is SCULPTURE IN THE PARK.  It is known as one of the finest outdoor juried exhibitions of three-dimensional art in the United States. Artists from around the world participate in the show that is held on the second weekend of  August each year.   Thousands of sculptures of all tastes are on exhibit.  Benson Sculpture Park is the location for the exhibit and sale and it's a must-see.

Downtown Loveland features many Art Galleries.  Some of the galleries offer classes as well as studio spaces.

Artists have transformed Loveland and have blessed the residence with beautiful pieces to enjoy in parking lots, in front of businesses, museums, and events. 

3.  Numerous Lakes

If you are someone who enjoys fishing, boating, paddleboarding, or swimming, Loveland has many lakes that are available for your enjoyment.  Lake Loveland is close to Benson Sculpture Park and is centrally located.  The lake itself is reserved for the use of surrounding homeowners, but the south shore allows guests to fish and enjoy the Rocky Mountain view.  North Lake Park is a common gathering space, with a swim beach, a park with a train, playgrounds, BBQ/picnic area, an amphitheater and a place to view the ducks, geese, and events.  Some of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Loveland are located by small mountain runoff ponds.  My favorite lake is Carter Lake.  Carter lake is about 25 minutes south of Loveland.  It's known for paddleboarding, fishing, a sailing club and boating.  It's about 3 miles long, so it's more than enough lake to "get away from it all".  

4.  Health Care At Its Finest

There is quite a range of healthcare options in Loveland CO.  UCHealth of the Rockies is highly ranked and is a teaching hospital.  McKee Hospital has been a part of the community for over 30 years and is a medical and surgical facility.  Urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics and free and income based clinics are available as well.

In the non-traditional medicine area, you can find acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, holistic health care, healing arts, homeopathic practitioners, naturopathic medicine, and many more options.

There is something for everyone's needs and desires.

5. Endless Restaurants 

One of my favorite restaurants is a Cajun Restaurant called Betta Gumbo.  It's a Cajun eatery and features catfish, beignets, and has a New Orleans feel.  You can't go wrong with any item you decide to try.  If you sit on the patio, you can listen to local music and events going on at the Foundry.

Another one of my frequented locations is Bai Tong.  It's a Thai restaurant with the best curry dishes.  It's in a quaint old home that's been transformed into a casual, calming restaurant with an extensive menu for all tastes.

Variety abounds from the traditional Franchises to food trucks.  It doesn't matter where you are in town, you will be able to find Mexican, Italian, Sandwich shops, Bakeries, Breakfast, Asian, or just plain old American food at it's finest.

6.  Biking and Hiking Trails

As you can tell already Colorado is an outdoor haven.  According to U.S. News, Colorado is ranked 8th healthiest state in the United States.  There are avid hikers and bikers with numerous paths in the area.  Among the top trails is Devils Backbone, Pinewood Lake Trail, and Marianna Butte Trail.  There are hundreds of different places to enjoy the beautiful scenery and smell the abundant wildflowers.  More than likely on your adventure you will bask in the enjoyment of nature.  Mule deer, elk, raccoons, prairie dogs, snakes, are just a few creatures you may encounter.  Whether you want a short nature walk or a 25-mile ride, Loveland has you covered.  You won't be disappointed.

7.  Golf Anyone

Loveland has three courses to choose from.

The Cattail golf course is a 9 hole, 3 par course.  It's great for the beginner or someone who wants to improve their short game. 

The Olde Course is an 18 hole course located right in the middle of town.  This course is a 50-year-old course and is beautifully manicured with mature landscaping.  It features water holes and tree-lined fairways.  It has a fun layout and is enjoyed by all.

And the third is the Marianna Butte golf course.  It is an award-winning 18 hole golf course.  Its scenery is breathtaking and it can be challenging to say the least.  It is pricier than the other two but definitely worth it.