THEY CAME, ten years ago, as two tiny trees, that Museum Gardens were throwing out. They were adopted by the Russia Lane Day Centre. Now, after a long and exceptionally hot summer, the banana trees have produced fruit.
Russia Lane is a day centre for people living with advanced dementia. The residents are experienced gardeners, having won Tower Hamlets in Bloom for two years in a row. They have enjoyed the unique experience of seeing their banana plants flower and fruit.
Lisa Cade, staff member at Russia Lane Day Centre, said, “At Russia Lane we place great importance on gardening because of the benefits to cognitive health, physical health and mental wellbeing. People living with dementia find that gardening gives them a sense of purpose. It’s a place where people can connect, make friendships and nurture all the lovely plants.
“From the moment people arrive people can see a well-nurtured, well-looked-after, well-loved garden and this gives them a sense of belonging and a place they want to be. The residents here have been saying things like, ‘Oh wow, bananas in Bethnal Green!’ and everybody’s been really surprised. We’ve had banana diaries watching them go from flower and watching their fruits grow. It’s been an amazing little project.”
Day centre users spoke up too. Blossom Martin said, “Banana trees don’t grow in every garden in England. I was so pleased to see the fruit.” Karen Williams said, “I don’t have a garden at home, I love to be able to be outside here with all of the beautiful colours and smells. I love this garden.” Sandy Hannigan added, “I love this garden. It’s peaceful and it’s lovely.”
The gardeners have recently started growing hops at the centre as many of the residents have reminisced about childhoods spent hop-picking in Kent. With luck, they’ll be able to brew their own beer for the celebration of hop success!
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