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An elderly Asian American grandpa in a tan sweater plants tomato seedlings while a black Devon Rex digs in the soil. 16 / 21

Grandpa Knelt Down to Plant His Tomatoes. Pepper Decided to Dig Her Own Hole.

AI imagedevon rexgardeningtomatoes

Fresh soil, a little trowel and a row of tomato seedlings: Grandpa Kenji is getting his garden ready. He kneels in a tan V-neck sweater over a blue checked shirt, glasses on, smiling as he loosens the dirt around a young plant. Right beside him, Pepper has decided to help in her own way, front paw buried in the soil and body low to the ground, digging with intense focus. Her curly black coat is speckled with earth. A bag of potting soil, a blue watering can, garden gloves and baskets of tomato plants fill the garden near the back steps.

Digging is a natural behavior for cats, who often scratch into soft soil to bury waste or explore scents. Freshly turned garden beds can look a lot like a giant litter box, which is something gardeners with cats know well. Placing a few stones or chicken wire around new seedlings can discourage digging, and offering a separate sandy spot can redirect it. It also helps to know that tomato plant leaves and stems can upset a cat's stomach if chewed. Fertilizers, pesticides and some mulches can be harmful too, so store them securely and keep cats away from treated soil.

Gardening is a rewarding activity for older adults, combining fresh air, light exercise and the joy of watching something grow over time.

Pepper may be making more holes than Kenji needs, but she is clearly having the time of her life. The tomatoes will just have to share the dirt.

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