The sound of residents and staff sharing and communing, among the cornucopia of plant material filled the air during the Horticultural Therapy program known as “Green Thumbs.”
(Photo: ~Courtesy of Laura DePrado)

BOONTON – The intoxicating fragrance of lavender filled the auditorium of the New Jersey Firemen’s Home (NJFH) in Boonton.

The sound of residents and staff sharing and communing, among the cornucopia of plant material filled the air during the Horticultural Therapy program known as “Green Thumbs.” It is here that people and plants connect without judgment to the bounty of the season’s harvest. Everyone is successful. Everyone is engaged. Green thumbs are not required to sow meaning, purpose, creative expression, and fun.

It is not the finished projects, but the process along that way that offers benefits and countless positive experiences through customized activities and projects designed for all abilities.

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Plants to attract special visitors to the garden are must. Considering the hummingbird in your plant choices will offer great reward and countless hours of fun distraction.

Nature and plants are alive and dynamic. The sensory garden offers spontaneous and endless moments that allow us freedom to be and accepted without judgement.

Plants and birds can calm or stimulate the senses. Nature accepts us no matter our mood, or our circumstance.

Do you see the Swallowtail and other butterflies? Consider your plant selection.

Colors, textures, sizes, shapes, fragrances and movement offer endless opportunities in sensory experiences of the past, the present and the future for anyone and everyone.

Plan for birds with food and water source. Birds eat, play, drink, eat pest and enjoy the “pecking order”.

The Swallow Tail, New Jersey Butterfly