Arc of Abilities at the Williamsburg Botanical Garden
A collaboration between Master Gardeners and the Arc of Abilities Day Support Program for adults with special needs. This program allows for close interactive involvement with an important community group using the therapy beds at the Williamsburg Botanical Garden. Master Gardeners demonstrate how to grow and use herbs and vegetables and provide instructions on many topics, including companion planting, pollinators, and good and bad bugs! The Arc group visits the garden to harvest herbs and vegetables, which they use to cook at their center. We also created the fairy garden with the Arc group in 2019. This space has fairy houses, painted stones and other interesting features. The fairy garden has become a favorite attraction for all that visit the Botanical Garden. The collaboration is in its ninth year, and we hope to continue for many more.
For more information, take a look at this Virginia Cooperative Extension publication written by Phyllis Turner, Ph.D., RN, Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardener, Bedford County, VA.
Here are a few activities our team has put together for you to share with family and friends.
- Growing Tomatoes in Therapeutic Gardening Settings
- Growing Peas as a Therapeutic Gardening Activity
- Wreath Decorating
- Decorating Vases as a Therapeutic Gardening Activity
- Vases Wrapped in Tissue–Simple and Stunning
- Stenciling
- Stamping with Vegetables
- Plant Markers
- Herbal Crafts for Therapeutic Gardening
- Pumpkin Centerpieces
- Butterfly Clothespin Clips
