Horticulture Therapy Program
Recovery Ventures Corporation is in the beginning stages of a new therapeutic program. Eugene Jones, a board member and certified horticultural therapist is leading a team of men and women in creating functional greenhouses, gardens, hypertufa planters and other therapeutic horticulture activities. Eugene has devoted his time and knowledge to assisting RVC in establishing a program to create independent financial sustainability while developing an additional therapeutic component to offer to our associates. This project began at the men's facility in Old Fort, NC., where the associates built a fully functioning greenhouse from the ground up.
- Skills such as teamwork, creativity, work ethic, socialization, task responsibility, nurturing and planning for the future are essential for a productive life.
- The participants learn about economics and business.
- Nature contributes to a heightened sense of awareness and spirituality.
Stage One
PLANTING
The Horticulture Therapy Process begins with the planting of seeds into trays in the greenhouse. The greenhouse provides a stable environment where the seeds can sprout.
Stage Two
TRANSPLANTING
Once the plants have grown large enough, they are then transferred into larger pots or into the garden where they can grow to their full size. Many different types of plants are being grown, including various flowers and vegetables.
Stage Three
MARKET
The final stage of the Horticulture Therapy process involves preparing the product for market. This includes the creation of Hypertufa pottery. Hypertufa pottery is created with a combination of cement, peat moss, and vermiculite. Ingredients are mixed with water, and formed into eco-friendly pots. When dry the result resembles porous rock similar to that found in nature. The pots are then arranged with various plant designs and made presentable to market. Products also include hanging baskets, six pack packages of flowers or vegetable plants and various other items.