In step with the New Jersey Senate passing legislation that designates the third full week of March as “Horticultural Therapy Week” in New Jersey, the New Jersey Nursery & Landscape Association (NJNLA) donated plants and shrubs to create a display that ran from March 16 to March 20 at Goldfinch Square in the New Jersey Statehouse.

Spearheaded by the American Horticultural Therapy Association, Horticultural Therapy Week celebrates and recognizes the accomplishments of horticultural therapists nationwide.

“Horticultural therapy touches all ages and helps those who need it most, be it special needs individuals, seniors, those with Alzheimer’s or others in need,” Assemblywoman Donna Simon said. “Passing this resolution to celebrate the benefits of horticultural therapy is the catalyst needed to advance the outreach and amplify the efforts of the great therapists working in New Jersey.”

The NJNLA’s backing of Horticultural Therapy Week ties into its mission of supporting commercial horticulture and the benefits of plants. Plus, it coincides with the recent launch of its Plant Something campaign in New Jersey, said NJNLA Executive Director Dominick Mondi.

“The Plant Something campaign is designed to resonate with people who might not be your typical gardeners,”  Mondi said. “We want to connect with non-gardeners and create long-term awareness of the benefits that plants will provide for them, their families and their communities.”

For more information on the campaign, visit PlantSomethingNJ.org.