SOUTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. — National Horticultural Therapy Week is March 19-25. To recognize this holiday and the benefits of this type of therapy, the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County is presenting a new workshop entitled “Horticultural Therapy in the Home.”
This seminar is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon on March 18 at the EARTH Center, located in Davidson’s Mill Pond Park at 42 Riva Ave., South Brunswick.
Horticultural Therapy can be administered by a professional, but many of its practices can easily be adapted for the home. Home therapy can be especially useful in caring for an aging or bedridden loved one.
Studying Master Gardener Althea McDonald LMHC, Psy.D., HT, will present an introduction to the art of Horticultural Therapy, followed by an immersive activity.
“Horticultural therapy can help strengthen muscles, improve coordination and balance and even help improve mood,” said Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios. “I hope many people will attend this event and learn how this type of therapy can help improve their lives and those of their families.”
“The EARTH Center offers so many great examples on how gardening and agriculture can help the environment, and this class will offer many insights on how gardens can also help to improve health and well-being,” said Freeholder Kenneth Armwood, chair of the Business Development and Education Committee.
This seminar is free of charge, but registration is required by March 16. Call 732-398-5262. No “walk-ins” will be permitted. For more information, call the EARTH Center at 732-398-5262.
Middlesex County’s Extension Office is part of a nationwide network that brings the research of the state land-grant universities to local people. Rutgers Cooperative Extension offices throughout New Jersey are cooperatively funded by the County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Rutgers University – New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
— Rutgers Cooperative Extension