A new study led by the University of Aberdeen has found that private gardens played a crucial role in supporting well being during the first Covid lockdown.

The research examined how people used their gardens at a time when access to public green spaces was limited and daily life was heavily restricted.

By analysing thousands of social media posts, researchers found that mentions of gardens increased sharply, with people turning to them for relaxation, socialising and escape.

References to mental well being also rose significantly, reflecting how these spaces helped people cope with isolation and stress.

The findings suggest that gardens became more than just outdoor areas, serving as everyday refuges during a period of uncertainty.

At the same time, wider data showed a clear decline in mental health across the UK, reinforcing the importance of access to nature.

Separate research indicated that around 82 percent of people with a garden used it at least once a week during lockdown.

Dr Robert Feller said:

“The findings are timely given ongoing policy discussions about the role of nature in supporting public health. 

“Using social media posts shared during the first lockdown, this study captures vivid snapshots of daily life: people working outdoors, chatting with family, gardening, watching birds, or simply stepping outside to clear their head after a stressful day.

“Together, these insights reveal the wide range of ways people used their garden and the emotional and psychological support these spaces provided. 

“Initiatives such as Scotland’s Green Health Partnerships promote the use of natural environments to enhance physical and mental well‑being, while the RHS State of Gardening Report 2025 showed that 77% of gardeners say gardening benefits their mental health.

“Our research adds further evidence that private gardens can act as crucial everyday spaces for well‑being. 

“The study also raises the issue of unequal access to private outdoor space, which may have contributed to disparities in people’s lockdown experiences.

“Going forward, recognising the value of gardens including their contribution to mental well-being could help inform future urban planning, housing design, and public health strategies aimed at strengthening community resilience and improving people’s connection with nature in cities.”