We think everyone benefits from a spot of gardening this time we’re all about winter.

But don’t just take our word for it – we found this article on the terrific UK website Thrive www.thrive.org.uk

Thrive patron and president of the Royal College of Physicians in London, Sir Richard Thompson, recently said: “I have, for some time, thought doctors should prescribe a course of gardening for people who come to them with depression or stroke.”

Sir Richard went on to say: “Drug therapy can be really expensive, but gardening costs little and anyone can do it.” He said gardens were “restorative environments” that provided many benefits.

“I always wonder why people go to the gym when there is a ‘green gym’ outdoors for us all, and what’s more it’s free. Gardening burns off calories, it makes joints supple and is fantastic exercise. Gardening as a physical activity has been shown to be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, depression and dementia.”

So let’s get out (or in) there and dig!

Winter planting

While winter is seen as a resting or dormant period in the garden, there are quite a few varieties of vegetables and flowers that you can grow. Here are some of the most popular:

• Asparagus
• Lettuce
• Cauliflower
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Mushrooms

Bulbs and perennials like lilium, gladioli and lily of the valley perennial phlox are also good to plant.

If you are in a small living space and don’t have a garden – remember that your indoor plants might need a bit of extra care during winter. Try to keep your plants away from cold drafts and from heaters. In general, houseplants require less frequent watering during the winter months than in spring and summer and most won’t need fertilising.