For many Americans, mental wellness is blossoming in their backyards. A new study by DeerBusters shows that 77% of adults say gardening or homesteading has improved their mental health, while 63% feel a sense of joy or accomplishment. Backyards are increasingly seen as sanctuaries for emotional balance and resilience, even as challenges such as wildlife damage and social media pressure remain significant.
The survey, which included 1,000 U.S. adults involved in gardening, food growing, or homesteading projects in the past year, highlights the popularity of these activities. Flower gardens are the most common (55%), followed by vegetable gardens (50%). Many participants described gardening as peaceful (45%), while others valued producing their own food (55%). Saving money motivated 27%, and nearly one third pursued greater self-reliance. The study also found that 22% grew closer to loved ones through shared gardening work, reinforcing its role in community building.
Wildlife, however, remains a major obstacle. 31% of respondents reported damage, most often caused by deer (51%), rodents (44%), and rabbits (36%). Birds (28%) and burrowers (31%) also contributed. Financial losses were common, with 63% of those affected spending over $100 on repairs or replacements and 36% spending $250 or more. Half of respondents lacked protective barriers, and only 17% added them after experiencing damage. The emotional impact was significant, as nearly one in five cried from frustration, 24% reported tension with partners, roommates, or neighbours, 17% relaxed less, and 9% felt burned out.
Social media also shapes gardening behaviour. One in four participants said platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest inspired their projects, yet 69% believed these sites promote unrealistic expectations. Among those who acted on online advice, 19% underestimated time demands, 18% overspent, and 13% had to redo parts of their projects. Despite these setbacks, 52% still shared their progress online, often reinforcing the polished image that misled them initially.
Commitment to gardening remains strong. 77% of respondents plan to continue, with 46% starting new projects and 26% investing in better protection. Only 1% expressed regret. For most, the sense of accomplishment (63%) and the lessons learned (37%) outweighed difficulties, demonstrating the lasting appeal of gardening as both a practical and psychological pursuit.
Protective measures are now central to sustaining this trend. Nearly a third of respondents called for better defences, and companies like DeerBusters provide professional-grade fencing to limit wildlife damage and preserve the benefits of gardening.
The survey included suburban, rural, and semi-rural participants and was conducted through a vetted online panel to ensure a nationally representative sample.