MONROE, La. (KNOE) – The Monroe Garden Study League brought together judges from across the country for their flower show at the Gardens of Somerset retirement facility, emphasizing the vital connection between nature and the health of elderly residents.
The show, themed “Ghouls in the Garden,” featured multiple award-winning exhibits that showcased both the beauty of floral design and important educational messages.
Stuart Scalia, marketing director at Gardens of Somerset, highlighted the community impact of the event.
“This is a great opportunity for the community and for all of us to be together and to learn more about conservation, floral gardening, all the things that are important to the Garden Club of America,” Scalia said.
One of the Monroe League’s award-winning exhibits focused on the positive impact gardening has on elderly populations.
Debbie Stockstill, education division chair for the flower show, explained the therapeutic benefits of interacting with nature.
“The things in a garden help promote health. It can lower your blood pressure, make you not get depressed, and things like that are seen in nature,” Stockstill said.
Another award-winning exhibit addressed environmental concerns within the gardening community, specifically targeting the use of floral foam. The display educated visitors about toxic materials commonly used in gardening and offered sustainable alternatives.
“Many of us who love floral design and flowers have used Oasis for years, but it’s actually toxic. It’s made of microplastics,” Stockstill explained.
Despite having only 40 active members compared to larger Garden Club of America organizations, the Monroe Garden Study League successfully executed the event.
“We are a small club,” Stockstill said. “It’s all hands on deck to do this kind of flower show.”
The flower show continues October 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Gardens of Somerset.
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