Master Gardeners Promote Therapy Through Horticulture

EM 8503 June 1992 M A K I N G G A R D E N I N G E A S I E R Ray A. McNeilan, Extension agent and Oregon Master Gardener Program leader, and Jan Powell, education program assistant, Oregon Master Gardener Program, Oregon State University you do things with,... More

EM 8503 June 1992 M A K I N G G A R D E N I N G E A S I E R Ray A. McNeilan, Extension agent and Oregon Master Gardener Program leader, and Jan Powell, education program assistant, Oregon Master Gardener Program, Oregon State University you do things with, to, and for plants that affect their growth. Cultivated plants need people who can help the plants survive. When the plant thrives, the person responsible for the plant’s well-being also thrives. Emotional, social, intellectual, and physical benefits have been observed that prove the rehabilitative value of gardening and plant care. Personal successes emerging from a non-threatening, non-demanding plant care project are the focal points of horticultural therapy. Master Gardener volunteers, people who are skilled at growing and caring for plants, become the teachers who help others cope with life’s difficulties through the love and care of plants. Master Gardeners, use their skills and knowledge of plant needs to help health ca Less