As National Wellbeing Week runs from 24th–30th June, new research highlights gardening’s positive impact on mental health and emotional well-being. A YouGov survey, commissioned by STIGA, Europe’s leading garden equipment manufacturer, shows that 72% of Britons describe gardening as relaxing and therapeutic, while 73% find it calming. These figures suggest that gardening plays a meaningful role in emotional balance and stress reduction.
The same survey, conducted in 2025, found that 83% of participants experience a sense of accomplishment when tending to their gardens. Scientific studies also support these insights, linking gardening with mood improvements, lower stress levels, and enhanced connection to the natural world. Engaging with plants and soil encourages light physical activity and sensory engagement, offering a peaceful space to reset and reflect.
Beyond individual wellbeing, gardening brings people together. Shared gardens, neighbourhood conversations, and community allotments promote social ties. The Green Care movement, which encourages interaction with nature for both mental and physical health, continues to gain support across the UK. As summer unfolds, many are turning to gardens as spaces for solitude and connection.
STIGA is supporting this movement by making gardening easier and more accessible. Their product range, designed for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike, includes autonomous robot mowers that have received the Quiet Mark for low noise. These mowers carefully navigate outdoor spaces, avoiding pets and furniture, and allow users to enjoy the calming aspects of gardening without additional labour.
Experts note that gardening’s mental health benefits come from a combination of fresh air, movement, and creative focus. Research from the Royal Horticultural Society shows that just 20 minutes of gardening, such as weeding or planting, can lift mood and reduce anxiety. Nurturing plants can mirror self-care, creating a sense of routine and purpose that supports emotional resilience.
The Royal Horticultural Society recommends several steps for those new to gardening. Choosing hardy plants like lavender or marigolds helps ensure success with minimal upkeep. Using containers or raised beds makes gardening easier in small spaces. Quality tools, such as STIGA’s ergonomic trimmers, can enhance comfort and enjoyment. Setting aside just 10 to 15 minutes a day can help build a regular and rewarding routine.
The UK’s enthusiasm for gardening is long-standing. According to the National Garden Scheme, more than 3.5 million people visited open gardens in 2024, raising £3.4 million for health charities. Urban gardening initiatives are also growing in cities such as London and Manchester, where allotments provide a welcome escape into nature.
As National Wellbeing Week approaches, STIGA encourages everyone to explore the full benefits of gardening. Their slogan, “Grow Your Health, One Garden at a Time”, reflects the belief that every green space – whether a garden, patio, or balcony – can support better mental health. For those looking to simplify their routines, STIGA’s autonomous mowers offer a quiet and efficient way to maintain outdoor areas, leaving more time for relaxation and reflection.
