Explore the Resident Garden at Timber Ridge at Talus
At Timber Ridge at Talus, life is rooted in connection, wellness, and natural beauty – and nowhere is that more evident than in our beloved resident garden. This vibrant outdoor space is more than just a place to plant flowers or harvest vegetables. It’s a sanctuary where residents find relaxation, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a deep sense of purpose and pride.
Gardening offers numerous benefits for seniors, from stress relief and gentle physical activity to cognitive stimulation and social bonding. It’s a rewarding experience that nurtures both body and soul.
“As part of our commitment to whole-person wellness, we designed the resident garden to be a source of joy, connection and vitality,” says Diane Mortensen, Community Life Services Director at Timber Ridge at Talus. “It’s truly a cornerstone of our community.”
The Beauty and Purpose of the Resident Garden
Nestled among the lush, forested hills of Talus, the resident garden is a peaceful, thoughtfully designed space where residents grow flowers, herbs and vegetables with pride.
Raised beds and well-tended plots allow gardeners of all abilities to participate. For many, the garden is a place to relax and unwind. For others, it’s a chance to collaborate with fellow residents and bond over shared interests.
“Committee members were assigned one of the raised beds in front of Timber Ridge,” said Mary Ann, Timber Ridge resident. “I loved having a garden plot that was my responsibility. I planted the annuals assigned to my beds and spent the summer caring for them … just like I used to do in my garden at home.”
The Health Benefits of Gardening for Seniors
Gardening at Timber Ridge isn’t just enjoyable – it’s good for you, too.
- Physical Wellness: Tending to a garden provides light, low-impact exercise that supports flexibility, mobility and strength.
- Mental Well-Being: The soothing rhythm of gardening promotes mindfulness and reduces anxiety and stress.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Planning, planting and caring for a garden engages memory and focus, helping to keep the mind sharp.
- Nutritional Benefits: Residents often grow fruits and vegetables, contributing to fresh, healthy meals and a true farm-to-table experience.
Community Involvement and Gardening Activities
At Timber Ridge, gardening is a collaborative endeavor filled with opportunities for connection and lifelong learning.
As resident Barb H. shares, “I do not claim to be a gardener, but I love digging in the dirt. The Landscaping Committee has a wealth of experienced gardeners, and they truly enjoy sharing their knowledge with those of us who just enjoy being outdoors and a part of nature.”
This is just one of the many ways residents connect. More include:
- Resident-Led Gardening Clubs: Gardeners share tips, seeds and stories while building lasting friendships.
- Seasonal Planting Events: From spring planting to fall harvest celebrations, the garden calendar is always full of engaging activities throughout the year.
- Workshops and Educational Programs: Residents can dive deeper into sustainable gardening, composting, and eco-friendly practices.
- Garden-to-Table Dining: The fruits (and vegetables!) of residents’ labor are often featured in meals prepared by our culinary team, giving a delicious sense of satisfaction to every bite.
Advice From Our Resident Gardeners
The heart of the Timber Ridge garden lies in the wisdom and experience of the residents who tend it. From tried-and-true planting tips to creative ways to keep flowers blooming all season, our resident gardeners are always eager to share what they’ve learned. Their insights not only help new gardeners get started – they foster a spirit of collaboration and lifelong learning within our community. Here are their top tips:
- Research and plan for the best plants in your space
- Consider your soil, light, and part of the country you live in
- Talk with a Master Gardener or your gardening friends about your ideas
- Buy good seeds or plants
- Check out a demonstration garden
- Start with easy-to-grow plants
- Ask questions
- Don’t be afraid to experiment
- Watch, learn and try again
Enjoying Nature at Timber Ridge at Talus
Set against the stunning backdrop of Issaquah, Timber Ridge offers an unparalleled connection to the outdoors.
The resident garden is just one of many ways to enjoy nature here. Meandering walking trails, scenic outlooks, our Grand Terrace, and beautifully landscaped common areas provide the perfect setting for an active, nature-filled lifestyle.
Whether residents choose to garden daily or simply sit among the blooms and soak in the fresh mountain air, the experience supports wellness and tranquility.
Experience the Beauty of Timber Ridge at Talus
At Timber Ridge at Talus, our resident garden is more than just a place to grow plants. It’s a space to cultivate friendships, wellness, and a connection to nature. It’s a community hub that enhances health, happiness, and a sense of belonging.
We invite you to experience it all for yourself. Contact us today to schedule a tour.