Get planting to boost mental health

As part of the initiative by the Plant a Thought project, Darren Kench is leaving 30 pollinator packs around Leasowes Park, over several weekends, for people to find.

He said: "In 2020 I launched the Plant a Thought project, in response to the coronavirus pandemic and the kindness that has inspired communities to come together, growing and distributing free wildlife-friendly flower seedlings, so that others could also experience a little of the joy I found in my own garden during lockdown.

"Each complimentary goody bag will contain a recycled milk carton, planted up with zinnia seedlings, together with a bespoke packet of seeds, so that we can ‘grow together’ as a community.

"Pencils printed with positive phrases, such as “dare to be kind” and “totally got this”, complete the packs, which also contains a bottle of mini bubbles thrown in for fun.

"As a volunteer for Leasowes Walled Garden, in Leasowes Park, I've supported them and Halesowen in Bloom in their own efforts to make Halesowen a more connected and colourful community in which to live, work and visit.

"Together we can make a positive impact on the town and the wildlife that inhabits it, by looking after our environment and each other."

The planting initiative coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week this week.

Darren added: “Healthy ecosystems and healthy minds go hand-in-hand and it’s this connection between our wildlife and our wellbeing that’s central to the Plant a Thought project’s mission.

"Leasowes Walled Garden is a haven in Halesowen, providing a refuge for the community and the wildlife it attracts, through the continued work of Halesowen Abbey Trust who manage the site with nature in mind.”

Darren's project also works alongisde Greenfingers - the UK charity that funds gardens in children's hospices.

To make a donation to the Plant a Thought project, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/plantathought