Green Thumb Tuesday: Gardening Safety

Now that gardening season is in full swing, some safety tips are in order. Remember to use the proper tools—sharpen and clean your tools for the best and safest use. Be sure to keep sharp tools in a safe location where you cannot accidentally bend or bump into a sharp edge. Make sure that shovels and rakes are placed tines or blade down, even if they are propped against a wall. Stepping on an upturned edge can inflict a damaging blow.

Use sunscreen even on an overcast day. A hat can also protect your eyes and head. Be sure to drink enough water, especially if you are doing any heavy digging or the day is very hot. Use care when lifting heavy plantings or stooping and bending. Use your knees to help with heavy lifting. Sometimes a kneeling pad can be an excellent aid for lengthy planting sessions. Gloves are valuable aids to protecting your hands from cuts and soil borne contaminants. If you are working with thorny plants, try gloves that resist a puncture. Gloves can even protect you from the unexpected stinging insect hiding in the grass or flowers.

Western Pennsylvania Conservancy places a high priority on the safety of the thousands of volunteers who help us plant 350,000 flowering plants in the month of May. All volunteers will be asked to wear a safety vest, wear sturdy shoes and apply sun protection. A few basic habits can ensure a safe and comfortable gardening season.

Today's photo was taken this past Saturday (5/1) by a WPC Volunteer working at the Parkway West - Scott/Carnegie Interchange community garden.

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