The Psychological Benefits of Caring for Potted Plants

The Psychological Benefits of Caring for Potted Plants

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the need for personal projects and outlets to reduce stress. In recognition of this, the Centre Gardening Club planned “Blooms for Rooms,” a program which emphasizes the importance of mental health by forcing tulip and daffodil bulbs to bloom in late February through mid-March. Students, faculty and staff at Centre College were given pots of bulbs and information regarding plant care and self-care during these difficult times. In collaboration with the Gardening Club, we administered a pre-survey when participants picked up plants and a post-survey two weeks later. The surveys consisted of Brief Mood Introspection Scale (BMIS), inclusion of nature in self (INS) item, and an in-house gardening habit questionnaire. The goal of this study is to measure the psychological benefits of caring for potted plants. The data collection phase will be completed by March 24 and analyzed in the following weeks.