The COVID-19 pandemic once again forced the Cultura Garden Club to conduct its February meeting through email. The newsletter that was sent to each member included an update on club business and the program.

The program focused on the heart in recognition of American Heart Month. Martha Sibley presented the program: “Gardening – How to Have a Happy Heart.”

There are many reasons gardening is good for us. Here are four main reasons gardening can help you live a better happier life:

      1. Good exercise can reduce risk of heart disease by 12 percent. Statistics show those who worked two hours per week in their gardens reduced their risk of death from heart disease by 37 percent.

      2. Gardening reduces stress, which is known to lead to major health problems – heart disease, depression, anxiety, mental disorders, eating disorders and many more. Gardening reduces stress by spending time in nature, which calms our bodies and our minds.

     3. Spending time gardening also improves life satisfaction. From surveys, studies and interviews taken, gardening has shown an improved feeling of satisfaction with life by boosting positive emotions and attitude.

     4. Gardening encourages healthy eating. If we grow our own fruits and vegetables, it encourages us to eat more of them; thus, a healthier diet and the happier we are.

Other ways to be a happy gardener are to:

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water because it is good for everything – your heart, kidneys, skin, blood pressure and many other things.
• Protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen, wear a big hat and work early in the morning to avoid hot sun.
• Know your limits. Don’t overwork, getting too hot and tired. Learn to pace yourself.

The Institute was titled, “What is the most popular flower for Valentine’s Day?”

Long-stemmed red roses remain the most popular flower for Valentine’s Day. Red is the color of the day, and red carnations are the second-most popular – and less expensive.

Orchids are next on the list, as they denote similar meanings as roses, including beauty and love, while adding strength and luxury.

Tulips in red or pink are a popular option for new relationships. Each color of tulip symbolizes a unique quality. White is for forgiveness, and yellow is for cheerfulness.

Gardenias represent love, purity and joy and are one of the most fragrant.

Peonies represent a prosperous marriage and are the 12th anniversary flower. They symbolize romance and good fortune.

Lilies, including stargazers and alstroemerias, are also popular choices. They can be mixed with roses, carnations and other flowers.

Giving one of these popular flowers for Valentine’s Day is the perfect way to show someone you care.