Koloniträdgårdar: the Swedish garden wellness plan

Shasta daisies in my garden bring me happiness

Gardens and gardening can have a positive impact on health, happiness, and longevity. We create buildings that shelter us from the elements and protect us from danger. This was originally quite good for our health and long-life prospects. No one wants to let the tiger in with the air or have it rain where we sleep. But today, we seem to create spaces that push all nature out, whether it is outdoor air, outdoor light, or plants. The problem is that we are nature’s children. We benefit from natural light, air, plants, and dirt. In architecture, we call this biophilic design. We connect the built environment to nature to encourage wellness and create a connection beyond the walls of the building. 

For my clients, I have done this with natural materials, with windows designed to capture a specific view, or by introducing plants or kitchen gardens into homes. On an urban design scale, we can make sure that city dwellers have access to garden spaces or city parks in addition to bringing natural elements into our homes. Studies show that being in nature decreases blood pressure and heart rate. We do better when we smell that dirt and see those dappled leaves in the sunlight. We live better when we hear the birds or breathe fresh air. In this article from the New York Times, we see how Stockholm, Sweden recognized a need for nature in their city population. They created koloniträdgårdar, small cottage gardens for city dwellers. For decades, the Swedish people have benefited from having a retreat from the everyday slog of city life. We have seen in the Blue Zones that keeping active helps an aging population. In these gardens, the elderly benefit from increased movement, community connection, fresh food, and great light and air quality. Younger people are learning about these benefits. The stress of the work day can balanced by a restful exchange in the garden. In my own garden, I benefit from a different narrative than my usual life. I triumph when I get a tomato. I love gifting my lavender to friends, and I have an ongoing war with a pack-rat, who steals my strawberries. But these interactions are grounding, and ultimately make me a more rounded and happy person. 

If you live in the city, see if you have access to a community garden. Take advantage of your city parks. Even if your life is busy, nurturing a little plant indoors can make your life fuller. Happy gardening!

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/08/well/sweden-urban-gardens.html