Why Gardeners Garden: Exploring Generational Motivations for Gardening

We Asked

  • What is your primary motivation for gardening?
  • Do you have any secondary reasons for gardening?
  • How do you think of your garden and gardening as an activity?

Consumers Answered

Our survey reveals a fascinating shift in motivations for gardening across age groups. Among younger gardeners (under 25), mental wellness (28.81%) and growing food (47.38%) stand out as key drivers. This suggests that younger gardeners may view their time in the garden as a way to reconnect with nature, relieve stress, and improve their mental health, while also embracing the practical benefits of growing their own food.

As gardeners age, the focus on wellness decreases, and an emphasis on beauty emerges. Among those aged 55-64, for instance, 22.10% cite beauty as their primary motivation. For the 65+ group, beauty reaches its highest importance at 25.45%. This shift suggests that older gardeners may value the aesthetic and creative aspects of gardening more, likely due to having more time or experience to perfect the visual appeal of their spaces.

Interestingly, the motivation to support pollinators and wildlife is higher among middle-aged gardeners (35-54), peaking at 20.54% in the 45-54 range, hinting at a growing awareness of environmental stewardship.

Across all age groups, food gardening remains consistently popular, though slightly less so among older respondents. This shows the continued appeal of self-sufficiency, regardless of age.

What is your primary motivation for gardening?
(by Age)

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Sample results from the “Other” option

  • Rain barrels
  • No watering
  • Spring well
  • Irrigation ditch 

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