Colorful, intricate, unique, expressive – the value of natural ornamental contributions to your garden reaches far beyond the pollinators. Serving as the inspiration behind many of our beloved aloha shirt patterns, flowers are not limited as mere visual and fragrant sensory stimulators. They influence power on the human psyche, including the ability to evoke emotions, alter moods and leave long-lasting impressions.
Gifting sunflowers is one technique FETCH uses to earn acceptance and break or cover new ground with youth. On more than one occasion have youth shown up to our farm site for a program session upset, from whatever the cause. Sunflowers with their animated large size and colorful tones naturally sooth and take the mind off whatever the issue. It’s hard not to feel a sense of belonging, as a contributory component to the farm when you’re holding a sunflower taller than you are. Flowers are like compliments in that both possess the ability to uplift the spirit instantly when gifted. FETCH encourages everyone to grow more flowers.
Activities utilizing flowers such a lei making are both fun and engaging for individuals of ages. Requirements are minimal: lei needle, dental floss, flowers and a positive attitude. Suggested flowers to use include plumeria and pua kenikeni for beginners or children and crown flowers for intermediate level lei-makers. Finished lei are used to welcome visitors as they offer themselves up as kind greeting gesture, the true sign of aloha. More information on lei and lei making below:
Some flowers are even edible! At Hale Tuahine, we grow borage, nasturtium, sunflowers (seeds), all of which can be consumed – adding color and flavor to your salad or dish.
Share a flower today and don’t forget to follow @fetchoahu on Instagram
Mahalo,
Norman Tansey
FETCH Program Manager