Several studies have been done to show the effect flowers have on people and stress. A study from Rutgers University shows that flowers improve emotional health. Harvard University Medical School has a study that shows the "home ecology" of flowers- the effects of flowers in the home on personal well-being.

Having a floral design class seemed like a great opportunity for people to come together, learn about their own flower gardens, how to best cut and keep fresh flowers, as well as how to make a beautiful arrangement. In partnership with a local floral shop, a class was offered this summer. Participants learned about what flowers work well in an arrangement and how to use height, color, and size to make their arrangement. They also learned about maintaining their gardens (deadheading, watering, etc.), how to properly cut flowers from their garden (how to make the cut, when to cut, etc), and then how to care for cut flowers. All participants went home with their own arrangement. This also provided an opportunity for people to learn about value-added markets and the possibility of making arrangements to sell at Farmers Markets.

Everyone that attended raved about the class and how much fun they had. A follow-up survey will be sent out to see if they have made any more arrangements from their flowers and if they believe flowers help to reduce their stress.