FIG is an all-inclusive approach to creating garden spaces, developed by UC Master Gardener of San Diego County Stephen Cantú using the 7 Principles Of Universal Design. An enabled garden may use concepts such as raised garden beds, modified tools, and broader pathways to achieve both accessibility and functionality.

Friendly - safe and easy movement around the garden, and the right tool for the job.
Inclusive - for all levels of ability and age
Garden - a planned space for the cultivation and enjoyment of plants and other forms of nature

Accessibility and Inclusivity  Whether one has physical limitations or not, the goal is to make gardening a friendly, inclusive, accessible experience for all. FIG considers any stage of life, from toddler to older adult, and those who might be:

• Mobility challenged
• Using walkers, canes, or wheelchairs
• Caregivers with strollers
• Blind or hearing-impaired
• Non-native speakers or non-readers
• Of varying developmental, behavioral, and cognitive abilities

Universal Design (UD)  A global movement of inclusive design practice, which includes these seven principles:

• Equitable Use (photo)
• Flexibility in Use (photo)
• Simple and Intuitive Use (photo)
• Perceptible Information (photo)
• Tolerance for Error (photo)
• Low Physical Effort (photo)
• Size and Space for Approach and Use (photo)

Universal Design is a “global movement of inclusive design practice," according to the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University. It guides the development of environments, products, and communications so they’re usable by everyone, "to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design" and places a high value on "diversity, equality, and inclusiveness." Learn more about Universal Design

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) encompasses the symbiotic relationship, philosophy and culture of acknowledging, embracing, supporting, and accepting those of all racial, sexual, gender, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds, among other differentiators.

Learn In Person
Book a Master Gardener to speak about FIG Presentations may include "Making Gardening Accessible to all Ages and Abilities" or "A Friendly Discussion on Gardening Tools and Design"

Resources
The UC Master Gardener Program of San Diego County does not recommend or endorse any particular company or product. The links below are for reference and information gathering. Please research and find the tools and information that works for you.

• 10 Ways to Make Your Home Garden More Accessible
• Accessible Events: ADA Guidelines
• Accessible Garden Models: Huntington Gardens | California Botanic Garden | Descanso Gardens
• ADA National Network: Information, Guidance, and Training on the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Adapted Garden Beds
• Adaptive Tools: Amazon | Radius Garden Tools
• Presentation "Understanding the Spectrum of Human Abilities," from The Universal Design File, Center for Universal Design, NC State University.
• San Diego Union Tribune - Stephen Cantu "7 Principles.."
• San Diego Union Tribune - Stephen Cantu "Inclusive Guidelines.."
• Universal Design - Learn More

Under the umbrella of the UC Master Gardener Program of San Diego County, FIG, Friendly Inclusive Gardening, will provide ADA accessible information and knowledge related to Community, School, and Home gardeners for enthusiasts of all ages and abilities to work independently in their respective gardens, and also to promote gardening to one's mental and physical health over generations.