Local greenhouse joins #StayPlanted initiative 

FALLBROOK – To promote residents’ shelter in place and social distancing guidelines, a coalition of greenhouse growers and interior plantscapers recently launched a hashtag #StayPlanted initiative.

Hashtag #StayPlanted encourages solidarity for shelter in place and social distancing directives by encouraging individuals to place plants in windows and share pictures on social media of how having greenery has been beneficial during quarantine.

“Most people love their indoor plants for how they look, but many don’t realize the huge health benefits that come from access to plants and greenery,” Denise Godfrey of Olive Hill Greenhouses said.

Plants and greenery are often touted for their mental health benefits, and studies over the years show that access to plant life can help to reduce stress and symptoms of depression, all while helping to improve mood and concentration. According to a case study survey, 88% of respondents said having direct views and access to the natural elements indoors improved their sense of well-being.

Olive Hill Greenhouses is among a number of family owned nurseries that are supporting the hashtag #StayPlanted initiative. The initiatives aim is to highlight another creative way for people to stay positive during shelter-in-place and social distancing directives. As more individuals are literally “planted” at home, maintaining individual health and well-being has become a much bigger priority.

“During these uncertain times, it is extremely comforting to me to be surrounded by fresh indoor plants,” Godfrey said. “They keep me happy, motivated and make me smile daily.”

The hashtag #StayPlanted initiative has also revealed how plants can provide green-leafed companionship during social isolation.

“My plants have become my extended family,” Maya Puller, college student and self-described plant lover, said. “I acknowledge their needs, treat them kindly and most importantly, love them. In return they provide me with beautiful foliage. They simply make me happy.”

By placing plants in windows and sharing pictures and personal stories, hashtag #StayPlanted hopes to provide encouragement to others to shelter-in-place while sharing a bit of joy.

“As we shelter, I hope more people take the opportunity to adopt a plant or give a plant to someone who needs cheer,” Godfrey said. “In giving a plant, we not only celebrate living but we also share life.”

The company will launch a new section on their website in the coming weeks to highlight this initiative and provide resources to consumers and retailers on how they can share their hashtag #StayPlanted stories.

Submitted by Olive Hill Greenhouses.