Plantscapers Show Solidarity for Shelter in Place and Social Distancing with Launch of #StayPlanted Initiative Press Release

      Plantscapers Show Solidarity for Shelter in Place and Social Distancing with Launch of #StayPlanted Initiative

Interior plantscaping professionals encourage individuals to adhere to shelter in place and social distancing health and safety guidelines

 

Sarasota, FL– To help advance CDC messaging for shelter in place and social distancing guidelines, a coalition of interior plantscapers including Sarasota-based Plant Parents recently launched a #StayPlanted initiative.

 #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,” said Mike Senneff, president of Green Plants for Green Buildings and Founder and CEO of Natura, a company dedicated toenhancing the built environment with green spaces.

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 percent of respondents said having direct views and access to the natural elements indoors improved their sense of well-being.

 The #StayPlanted initiative started 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.

 “We’ve received so much positive feedback from our residential clients about what a difference plants have made during their time in isolation. A beautiful plantscape just brings joy and a sense of security even in tough times,” said David Glosser, owner of Plant Parents. “Going forward, it’s really inspired our team to amp up our programs for patios, pools, and lanais because we have a greater appreciation of how important it is to have that oasis, that ‘happy place’ at home.”

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

“I’m by myself now and the plants are like my people,” said Barbara Cervasio, a Sarasota condo resident. “They breathe, they have life, I talk to them. Now I have somebody to talk to and they make me smile.”

By placing plants in windows and sharing pictures and personal stories, #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,” said Denise Godfrey, second generation owner of Olive Hill Greenhouses. “In giving a plant, we not only celebrate living but we also share life.”

Share your own story, and follow the #StayPlanted hashtag for more personal stories and updates. For more information on local #StayPlanted updates and news, visit Plant Parents online at www.plantparents.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plantparents, and Instagram at @plantparentsfl. Plant Parents can be contacted directly at 941-377-3070 and info@plantparents.com.