Cumulative impact assessments highlight the linkages among intentions, behaviors, and benefits of home gardening in the post COVID-19 pandemic era

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly heightened people’s awareness of their physical and mental well-being. Numerous studies have demonstrated the multifunctional benefits of home gardening for human health before and during the pandemic. However, little is known about the factors influencing individuals’ home gardening behaviors and whether there is a connection between home gardening during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study develops a cumulative impact model to assess the role of motivations and habits associated with home gardening in promoting public health during and after the pandemic. We employed PLS-SEM to examine public responses from a cross-sectional survey conducted in Vietnam. Additionally, PLS-MGA was used to compare group differences based on demographic characteristics. The findings indicate that health consciousness and the perceived benefits of home gardening during the pandemic positively influenced individuals’ intentions to continue gardening post-pandemic. These intentions positively impacted gardening behaviors during and after the pandemic. Similarly, the well-being benefits of gardening were strongly associated with gardening behaviors. Our study identified significant differences in gardening intentions and perceived benefits between urban and rural residents and between younger and older individuals. Moreover, we observed significant differences in the relationship between support solutions and gardening behaviors among these groups. However, no significant differences between males and females regarding home gardening participation were found. This study provides theoretical insights into how people engaged in home gardening at different pandemic stages. The findings inform policymakers in designing support programs that effectively promote home gardening by addressing distinct needs and motivations.