By Scout Nelson
A blooming pollinator garden has transformed Golden Horizons Assisted Living in Worthington into a place of beauty and connection. Started by a passionate volunteer, the garden now supports both pollinators and people.
What began as a simple gardening project has blossomed into a colorful, welcoming space that brings comfort to residents. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees regularly visit, making it a peaceful spot for families to gather and connect with nature.
“It’s beautiful. Residents sit out there on Sundays with their family members to talk about the garden and its visitors — hummingbirds, monarch butterflies, bees,” shared the volunteer behind the project.
The garden includes native flowers such as yarrow, coneflower, and butterfly weed, all chosen for their ability to attract pollinators. Careful observation helps determine which plants bring in the most activity, and those plants are grown again each season.
Beyond flowers, the garden features vegetables requested by residents. Some even bring produce from home, like tomatoes and cucumbers, and share them in the care home’s kitchen. These fresh ingredients are used in meals enjoyed by all.
The impact has been profound. One resident, grieving the loss of his wife, found healing in the garden. “He made a habit of cutting flowers and bringing bouquets to people who couldn’t get out,” the volunteer recalled.
The garden also inspired others to start their own mini gardens. “Once I started that project, people started coming in with planters and potting soil,” she said.
For those looking to make a difference, her advice is clear: “Just start something. Start somewhere, start with an email or phone call. Once you start, it gets a ball in motion.”
This simple garden project shows how nature can bring people together, spark joy, and build community in even the smallest spaces.
Photo Credit:istock-kerem-hanci
Categories: Minnesota, General