February 14 is Valentine’s Day and February 28 is Floral Design Day. Along with the weather in North Carolina not always being welcoming this short month, it’s a perfect opportunity to focus on some indoor therapeutic horticulture ideas that still keep our participants engaged with plants– so let’s focus on flowers!

Therapeutic horticulture uses gardening and plant-related activities to promote mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Research has shown it to be effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improving cognitive function and motor skills.

• Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder
• Physical disabilities such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and arthritis
• Cognitive impairments such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease

• Reduced stress and anxiety: A study published in the Journal of Death and Dying  found that people who participated in a flower arranging program experienced a significant reduction in stress and anxiety levels.
• Improved mood: A study published in the journal Evolutionary Psychology found that people who participated in a flower-arranging program experienced a significant improvement in their mood.
• Increased self-esteem: A study published in the Journal of People, Plants and the Environment found that children who participated in a flower-arranging program experienced a significant increase in their self-esteem.

Flower arranging can also be a helpful activity for people with physical disabilities. The process of arranging flowers can help to improve fine motor skills, coordination, and dexterity. It can also be a way to increase social interaction and engagement.

If you are interested in learning more about therapeutic horticulture and flower arranging, there are a number of resources available. You can find information online, in books, and from local organizations. 

• American Horticultural Therapy Association
• The Flower Arranging Academy
• Therapeutic Horticulture Activities Database: Flower arranging session plan

Research references:

Lavin, J., Lavin, C., Bai, X., Mastropaolo, S., & Feldman, D. (2021). Determining the Effect of Group Flower Arranging Sessions on Caregiver Self-Efficacy and Stress Levels in an In-Patient Hospice. OMEGA - Journal of Death and Dying, 84(2), 491-511. Sage Journals

Haviland-Jones, J., Rosario, H. H., Wilson, P., & McGuire, T. R. (2005). An Environmental Approach to Positive Emotion: Flowers. Evolutionary Psychology, 3(1). Sage Journals

Park, Y. H., Yun, S. Y., Choi, B. J., & Choi, H. S. (2019). Floral Design Courses to Build Self-Esteem in Children Enrolled in the Community Child Care Center for Low-Income Families: Focused on the Accreditation Process of the Junior Florist Certification. Journal of People, Plants, and Environment, 22(4), 375-384.