Summer 1999

Growing Perennial Families

Leanne Spengler, Human Development Specialist

Erma Bombeck made an interesting analogy in an article by saying Friends are annuals that need nurturing to bear blossom. Family is a perennial that comes up year after year, enduring the droughts of absence and neglect. Taking this idea a little further, a flower garden could be compared to the community.

Many common gardening techniques could be transferred to our work with individuals and families in our community:

When the garden provides the proper soil and adequate moisture the flowers will take root and grow. Just like the garden, a community needs to provide a supportive and nourishing setting for families to thrive.

Placement in the garden or community is important as well. Planting in rows or blocks allows for more convenient watering and fertilizing just as collaborations between agencies can provide a ‘blanket’ of services that meet the specific needs of the family.

If the garden receives too much sun or moisture the plants may suffer a setback. This is similar to the amount of support given individuals and families. A gentle, steady stream of support is more beneficial than a ‘flood’ of support or intermittent support.

A healthy garden attracts butterflies, ladybugs and birds that can benefit the garden like a healthy community attract businesses that benefit families. What are you doing to attract families to your community?

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Nancy Flood, floodn@missouri.edu Consumer & Family Economics Specialist Putnam County University Outreach and Extension Center Last Update: May 23, 2001