By Zelpha Boyd
Flowers for Christmas, what a pleasure! It certainly made me smile when my granddaughter gave me a pot of narcissus bulbs, all ready to bloom. They seem a prediction that spring will come again this year! Besides having an immediate impact of happiness, flowers “… bring about positive emotional feelings in those who enter a room containing flowers.
They make the space more welcoming and create a sharing atmosphere.” This quote by Dr. Haviland-Jones—found in the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs 2015 Calendar booklet. The article goes on to state, “Texas A & M research shows that a change as simple as adding flowers and plants to the workplace increases people’s productivity in the form of innovative and creative problem solving. “A good many plants have medicinal qualities, as well. Hibiscus tea may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and strengthen the immune system. Rose hips produce anti-inflammatory effects. Marigolds have a long history of medical use for headaches, toothache and for strengthening the heart. Calendulas made into tea, salve or ointment is good for all around health.
Gardeners know that getting out in the fresh air and sunshine is healthful in and of itself. Digging, planting, and weeding are excellent forms of exercise. Gardening can also be therapeutic—I know that! It fights stress and allows me to relax and unwind after outside-the-home activities. So by adding the medicinal flowers and plants to my garden, I’ll have added benefits from my gardening. Of course I’ll need to learn how to use any particular plant material. Sounds like a good New Year’s Resolution! The first Plant and Seed catalogs are arriving and as I pour over them, I feel the urge to try more new varieties. When this snow melts away and the first robins appear, I’ll be out there starting a new gardening year. Meanwhile, I’ll enjoy my Narcissus and the other house plants I nurture along. I replanted several orchids and see new blossom stems appearing. What a pleasure to have a bit of the Tropical in January! Good New Year’s resolutions or by adding Gardening to the bucket list, might be just the way to face a new year.
Happy 2016 Everyone! •
