04/17/2026
PETALS & PEACE: GARDEN-BASED LEARNING FOR COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Gentle, nature-based sessions for stress relief, skill-building, and environmental education
WHAT IS HORTICULTURAL THERAPY (HT)
Horticultural therapy is the professionally guided use of plant-based and nature-based activities to support emotional, physical, cognitive, and social well-being. Through intentional interaction with plants and garden environments, participants experience reduced stress, improved mood, and strengthened connection to community. Petals & Peace adapts these principles into an accessible, educational format, blending hands-on horticulture learning with wellness-supportive practices.
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Petals & Peace is a garden-based learning program designed to teach community members foundational plant knowledge, environmental awareness, and practical horticulture skills through sensory-rich activities. Rooted in therapeutic horticulture principles, the program blends hands-on education with mindful engagement to support both learning and emotional wellbeing.
Offered in partnership with Thrive Lemon Grove, sessions take place at the Lemon Grove Community Garden. This collaboration expands access to outdoor learning, aligns with Thriveās mission to advance public health and safety, and strengthens community connection through shared garden education experiences.
Led by Nichelle, a horticulture student, horticultural therapy intern, and co-steward of a small urban farm, Petals & Peace blends plant-based education with mindful engagement to create restorative learning environments for participants of all ages.
PROGRAM RATIONAL
Many communities experience limited access to hands-on environmental education, plant knowledge, and opportunities to learn.