At PHC, we know that a home is more than four walls and a roof: it’s a space for healing, growth, and community. This month, our residents at Argonaut got their hands dirty (in the best way possible) during a special plant care and wellness workshop led by Natural Yard Care Educator Rosemarie Cullinane from our long-standing community partner Tilth Alliance.
The Connection Between Plants & Well-Being
Rosemarie introduced residents to the science-backed benefits of keeping houseplants. Research shows that indoor plants enhance air quality, reduce stress, and improve overall mental well-being.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interacting with indoor plants can lower psychological and physiological stress by calming the nervous system and reducing blood pressure. This interaction promotes a sense of comfort and relaxation.
Caring for a plant—watering it, finding the right light, and watching it grow—can be a simple yet powerful daily ritual. Gardening is also a well-established form of horticultural therapy, known to relieve anxiety, improve focus, and foster a sense of responsibility.
Hands-On Learning
In addition to learning about plant care, residents put their knowledge into practice as Rosemarie guided them through the basics:
🌞 Choosing the right lighting for different types of plants.
💧 Mastering watering techniques (not too much, not too little).
🌱 Transplanting and fertilizing to encourage strong, healthy roots.
Then, it was time to dig in! Each resident planted their own indoor plant to take home and care for, creating a lasting reminder of the workshop.
Growth Beyond the Garden
While hands-on gardening and exploring a variety of beautiful plants were highlights of the day, the true impact of the workshop came from learning to nurture ourselves and each other. Whether through the meditative act of watering a plant or the satisfaction of watching something thrive, these small connections to nature can make a big difference.
One resident captured this spirit perfectly, saying, “I made two new friends—my plants! They’re easy to talk to, and they don’t talk back.” It was a reminder that even the smallest moments of care can foster connection and comfort.
We’re deeply grateful to Rosemarie Cullinane and Tilth Alliance for sharing their knowledge and helping our community grow—both literally and figuratively.
Want to support workshops like this? PHC is committed to bringing enriching programs to our residents, and we can’t do it without community support. Consider donating today to help us continue providing opportunities for learning, healing, and connection.