ResearchPaper.G7 1

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
SIGNIFICANCE OF GREENERIES IN URBAN RESIDENCES IN METRO MANILA,

PHILIPPINES AND ITS IMPACT ON ITS RESIDENTS DURING THE PANDEMIC
A Thesis Presented to
The College of Architecture and Urban Planning
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Architecture
By
Aure, Dexter D.
Bunao, Nicole Ann P.
Figueroa, Alyssa Blanche A.
Mercado, Charlotte Katrizze Z.
Sumulong, Jilian Alaine S.B.
Ar. Jared Aaron R. Cruz, uap
Thesis Adviser
June 30, 2022

ABSTRACT
Around the world, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected numerous aspects of life,
including health, economy, education. and social ecologies (Sunga & Advincula, 2021). Such
is also the case for the Philippines, as it went through multiple community lockdowns for the
duration of the pandemic. Although these quarantine measures were necessary to control the
increasing number of cases and local transmissions, they brought adverse effects to mental
health. Public health actions can make people feel isolated and lonely and can even increase
stress and anxiety. Thus, people resort to coping mechanisms as stress relievers. By learning
to cope with stress, people will become much healthier and more resilient (Centers for
Disease and Control Prevention, 2021). Among the coping methods by the Filipinos is the
increase in activity of gardening and interior greeneries.
Plant parenting has become a viral phenomenon in the Philippines (Rivas & Biana,
2021), in both rural and urban areas (Sunga & Advincula, 2021). While planting has already
been an existing activity way before the onset of the pandemic, its sudden rise of popularity
became evident after consequent lockdowns. In a case study by Visayas State University
(2020), among its faculty and staff, 53.9% engaged in gardening during the pandemic.
Additionally, a case study by Alamada et. al. (2022), of Sitio Lasang, Koronadal City,
Philippines, revealed that participants chose to plant because of leisure time and the safety
and security of the family against the pandemic. Furthermore, they stated that planting serves
as an economic support, stress reliever, workout, and an alternative means of doing
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something good while in the home. These statements surmise that the Filipinos have created
or added a
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dedicated space for greeneries within the confines of their residences to make room for their
planting activities over the course of the pandemic.
Interior greeneries pertain to views of nature, plants, vegetation, or foliage in the
living space. These include indoor plants, home gardens, green walls, and hanging plants.
Greeneries are also commonly placed in a row on windowsills, in groups on the floor or
racks, in the corner of the room, or on the principle of a green island among household
appliances or upholstered furniture (A.K. Studio, 2020). According to Hiemstra, de Vries, &
Spijker (2019) the benefits of greeneries include air purification and humidification, heat
reduction, and stress level reduction. Moreover, studies show the positive association of
plants to mental health; more so in this time of pandemic wherein nature contact ‘buffers’ the
negative effect of lockdown. Consequently, people perceived that nature helped them to cope
better with lockdown measures (Pouso, et al., 2020). This study intends to determine the
significance and impact of the existence of interior greeneries in urban residences and their
residents amidst the pandemic in the Philippines. Regardless of the size allocated to such
greeneries, the study aims to gauge whether such designated indoor green spaces are essential
for the people during and moving forward after the pandemic.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We, Dexter Aure, Nicole Ann Bunao, Alyssa Blanch Figueroa, Charlotte Katrizze
Mercado and Jilian Alaine Sumulong, the researchers, would like to express the deepest
appreciation to the following people for helping us to complete the research paper.
Firstly, We would like to thank God for always being there through times of
trouble and happiness and always there to guide and give us motivation while doing this
research.
Second, Ar. Jared Aaron R. Cruz, uap, for imparting new knowledge,
principles and recommendations regarding our research topic proposal, and for the
information he shared with us all throughout the semester.
Third, To our respondents who shared with us information and answered the
questionnaire truthfully. We could not have done it without your data that are essential in this
research.
Fourth, To our friends and families who helped us distribute our questionnaire
to obtain the data needed to continue our research.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT ………………………………………………………………………………..…i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS …………………………………………………………..……...iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS …………………………………………………………..…………
iv
LIST OF FIGURES …………………………………………………….…………………..…v
LIST OF TABLES ……………………………………………...…………………………..…
v
INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………………..…1
1.1 Background of the Study ………………..……………………………………………..…1
1.2 Statement of the Problem …………………….………………………………………..…2
1.3 Goals, Objectives of the Study .………………………………………………………..….2
1.4 Purpose and Significance of the Study ……………………………………….………..….3
1.5 Scope, Limitations and Assumptions …………………………………………………..…3
1.6 Definition of Terms …………………………………………………………...………..…4
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE ………………………………………………..…..5
2.1 Benefits of Plants in Residences ……………………………………………………….…5
2.2 Planting as a Coping Mechanism during the Pandemic ………………………………..…7
2.3 Residential Greeneries during the Pandemic …………………………………………..…9
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
3.1 Key Theories and Concepts ………………………………………………………………
11
3.1.1 Stress Recovery Theory
………………………………………………………...11
3.1.2 Restorative Environment Theory ………………………………………………
12
3.2 Theoretical Framework …………………………………………..………………………
12
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
4.1 Research Design ……………………………………………….....………………………
13
4.2 Methodology ……………………………..………………………………………………
13
4.2.1 Sampling and Participants ……………………………..………………………13
4.2.2 Data Collection ……………………………..…………………….
…………….15
4.2.3. Data Analysis ……………………………..
…………………………………...17
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
5.1 Presentation of Data ……………………………………………………………………..22
5.1.1 Respondent’s Profile …………………………………………………………..22
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5.1.2 Reasons for engagement in Having Greeneries ……………………………….24
5.1.3 Changes in Planting Activities ………………………………………………...28
5.1.4 Mental well-being of the Respondents ………………………………………...31
5.2 Discussions ………………………………………………………………………………35
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
6.1 Summary …………………………………………………….………………………..…38
6.2 Conclusions ……………………………………………….………………………..……39
6.3 Recommendations …………………………………………..…………………………...40
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REFERENCE …………………………………………………………………………..……41
APPENDIX 1 - Survey Questionnaire ……………………………………………………...52
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3.2 Pandemic-Residential Greeneries Relation……………………………………….12
Figure 4.2.1 Slovin’s Formula and Computation ……………………………..………..……

14
Figure 4.2.3.1 Cronbach’s Alpha Formula ……………………………..………………….…
17
Figure 4.2.3.2 Coefficient of Variation Formula ……………………………..………………
20
Figure 5.1.1.1 Distribution of Respondents by Age (n=80) …………………………………

22
Figure 5.1.1.2 Distribution of Respondents by sex (n=80) ……………………………......22
Figure 5.1.1.3 Distribution of Respondents by Employment Status (n=80) …………………
23
Figure 5.1.1.4 Distribution of Number of Plants Owned (n=80) ………………………….…
23
Figure 5.1.1.5 Distribution of Spaces where plants are placed and/or planting
activities are conducted at home. Select all that apply: (n=80) …………………..24
LIST OF TABLES
Table 4.2.2 Modified Survey Questions …………………………………………...…………

16
Table 4.2.3.1 Interpreting ALPHA for dichotomous or Likert Scale Question ……...………
17
Table 4.2.3.2 Variance obtained from each question (N=10)
………………………………..18
Table 4.2.3.3 Reliability results obtained from the survey questionnaire
pre-testing (N=10)
……………………………………………………………..19
Table 4.2.3.4. Interpretation of Scores
……………………………………………………….20
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Table 5.1.2.1 Reasons for engagement in Having Greeneries: scores obtained,
variance, standard deviation, and interpretation of results per
question (n=80)
………………………………………………………………..24
Table 5.1.2.2 Changes in Planting Activities: scores obtained, variance, standard
deviation, and interpretation of results per question (n=80) ……..…………...28
Table 5.1.2.3 Mental well-being of the Respondents: scores obtained, variance,
standard deviation, and interpretation of results per question (n=80) …………
31
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Chapter I
Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Among the coping methods by the Filipinos are gardening and plant parenting since
the pandemic, this led to the increase of residential green spaces in urban homes. Millions of
people have been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak around the world. The pandemic has
shattered people’s ambitions, upended family dynamics, and employment responsibilities,
and jeopardized economic stability, in addition to having major health effects. As a result, the
pandemic's unparalleled worldwide crisis has had a significant influence on our mental
health.
The quarantine procedures were necessary to contain the rising number of cases and
local transmissions, but they had negative mental health consequences. People may feel alone
and lonely as a result of public health activities, which can also increase stress and anxiety.
As a result, coping methods are used as stress relievers.
Plant parenting has become a viral phenomenon in the Philippines in both rural and
urban areas. Although planting has already been an existing activity way before the onset of
the pandemic, its sudden rise in popularity became evident after consequent lockdowns. It has
become part of the different activities people decide to try as a form of coping method or
therapy to reduce the prevalence of distress such as depression, stress, and anxiety, and they
can improve psychological well-being.
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1.2 Statement of the Problem
This research attempts to collect evidence supporting the study of “Significance of
Greeneries in Urban Residences in the Metro Manila, Philippines and its Impact on its
Residents during the Pandemic”, specifically, by seeking answers to the following questions:
● How vital are greeneries in residences during the pandemic?
● How has behavior towards planting/gardening changed during the pandemic
compared to pre-pandemic?
● How do greeneries affect psychological well-being?
1.3 Goals and Objectives of the Study
The goals and objectives of the study is to determine the significance and relevance of
residential greeneries in residences and evaluate their impact on mental health of the users; to
find out whether greeneries affect people positively or negatively in terms of mental health
state. If the results lean towards positive impact on the users’ mental health state, then the
researchers aim to educate the public especially those who are affiliated within the field of
architecture, interior designing, and medicine that having greeneries in one’s home can
improve their daily lifestyle, add relaxation, and contribute to their overall mental health
state. In order to determine whether residential greeneries really do provide positive influence
on one’s mental health state, the following processes and procedures shall be done:
● Determine the amount of respondents who feel positively about having
greeneries in their own respective homes.
● Deduce a generalized conclusion that will represent the end result of the
research study.
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● Recommend and promote the usage of residential greeneries to those
professionals in the related field such as medicine, architecture, interior
designing, and most especially to the public.
1.4 Purpose and Significance of the Study
The purpose and significance of the study is to provide a better understanding of how
green spaces influence the mental state. It is also made to encourage designers to consider
providing more spaces for residential greeneries.
Community. Data gathered in this research will help determine whether it is ideal or
not to include greeneries in our homes in the hopes of building better and beneficial
residential houses for its users.
Interior Designers. Knowing that greeneries give a certain and significant impact on
the state of mental health of residents will helpInterior Designers create more accurate and
helpful designs based on what their clients prefer and need for a comfortable home.
Researchers. Other researchers can use this paper as a reference in innovating more
in their respective fields. Specifically, medicinal and architectural fields are the most relating
fields for this research.
1.5 Scope, Limitations, and Assumptions
This research focuses on how greeneries impact the lives of the users especially on the
state of their mental health. After getting the results, the researchers will interpret the data in
order to determine whether it positively or negatively impacts our mental health. The time
range of when the answers shall be based is between March 2020 up to June 2022; when the
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pandemic in the Philippines started taking place. The study comprises respondents who are
aged 18 to 65 years old, own plants, and live within Metro Manila. The impact that the
researchers are pertaining to shall only cover the mental health state of the respondents. The
researchers considered working on this study in order to find out if there is a significant
impact brought by greeneries into the mental health state of the respondents, and to determine
whether it is positive or negatively influencing them.
1.6 Definition of Terms
● Residential Greeneries - any kind or form of plants, shrubs, and trees within the
property of the respondents; greeneries inside and outside the house is both included
as long as they are within the property perimeter
● Survey - a set of questionnaire used as a medium in order to gather necessary data and
information from the respondents
● Pandemic - covers the dates from March 2020 up to June 2022
● Respondents - anybody ages from 18-65 years old, owns plants in their homes, and a
resident of Metro Manila
● Stress Recovery Theory - tells that natural environments promote recovery from
stress, while urban environments tend to hinder the same process.
● Attention Restoration Theory - suggests that mental fatigue and concentration can be
improved by looking at, or time spent in nature
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Chapter II
Review of Related Literature and Structures
The Philippines is one of the countries heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic
and was under a "state of calamity" on March 16, 2020. The government made necessary
quarantine levels that would be implemented nationwide such as Enhanced Community
Quarantine (ECQ), Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), General
Community Quarantine (GCQ) and Modified General Community Quarantine (GCQ) to
restrict movement of individuals. (Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases,
2020). These guidelines have resulted in the new “normal” events that would greatly impact
homes, workplaces and education of the Filipinos. These new guidelines gave people new
opportunities to be creative in their coping strategies during these difficult times.
2.1 Benefits of Plants in Residences
Green spaces are known to be one of the significant pillars of urban
infrastructure that influences the acceleration of the quality of human life as it
promotes physical and mental activities. One of the reasons why plants are
consequential for most indoor spaces is that they represent the suitable natural
environment that is essential for every living thing. In the face of the Covid-19
outbreak, people are facing uncertain and tough circumstances, and providing green
spaces in residences has been beneficial in terms of psychological, physiological, and
economic factors. Amid self-isolation, finding ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle is a
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must and home gardening is one of the activities that have been helping people
throughout the pandemic. Regardless of the Covid-19 outbreak, allotting space for
greeneries has the capacity to influence environmental consequences, public
awareness, and market trends. It signifies the rapid increase in consumers purchasing
plants to enhance their quality of life.
The term "stress recovery theory" was coined by van den Berg and Custers
(2011) to describe the benefits that people experience when they spend time in nature,
such as reduced anxiety, lower heart rates, skin conductance recovery, lower cortisol
concentrations, and positive changes in nerve activity (Alvarsson et al. 2010, Bowler
et al. 2010, Park et al. 2010, Park et al. 2017, Russell et al. 2013). The psycho-
evolutionary theory proves that those restorative influences of nature involve a shift
towards a more positively toned emotional state, positive changes in physiological
activity levels. There are significant links between the use of open spaces and reduced
stress. Time spent in natural settings can aid in reducing mental fatigue and improving
concentration (Entrix 2010, Keniger et al. 2013, Kjellgren and Buhrkall 2010, White
et al. 2017, Wolf and Housley 2014). Individuals who live near green areas, have a
view of vegetation, or spend time in natural settings experience stress reduction and
mental restoration (Abraham et al. 2010, Carrus et al. 2015, Watts 2017, Wolf and
Housley 2014). The presence of green space in the neighborhood, particularly access
to a garden or allotment, was found to be a significant predictor of stress. In fact, the
amount of green space in residential areas is linked to the overall health of residents
(Groenewegen et al. 2012).
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As observed, gardening activity itself is therapeutic, and not just limited to
physical health, for it also has been associated with a positive effect on health in
several countries and a reduction of the cost of mental health services. It is clearly
shown that simple exposure to plants, visiting green spaces, and gardening itself can
all be beneficial to mental and physical health. Plant owners or people with direct
access to nature showed a significant positive response to the different mental health
issues that had been existing even before the pandemic started. Existence of
greeneries in an area has a strong correlation to the mood or mental health in general
of the users of the space.
2.2 Planting as a Coping Mechanism during the Pandemic
Home gardening has long been a source of income, a sideline, and a
recreational activity in the Philippines in both rural and urban regions. During the
pandemic, home gardening gained popularity and became a form of relief because it
was associated with being productive. Since then, Government officials encouraged
Filipinos to participate in this trend to help combat boredom during lockdowns and
strict protocols. Home Gardening gained popularity in different social media
platforms where different age groups participate in buying, selling and posting plants.
This event coined the Filipino term “Plantito/Plantita” derived from the word plant
and Filipino word “tito” or “tita”. Being connected with nature can be traced to
different concepts. In the literature, the “biophilia hypothesis” is a concept that
attempts to explain the human desire to relate to the natural environment (Kellert &
Wilson, 1993, as cited in Uhlmann et al., 2018). Gardening was regarded as a socially
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beneficial activity as well as a source of emotional comfort. (Millican et al. 2019)
stated that gardening could be a good approach to redirect negative emotions.
Gardening can be a valuable nature-based activity that maintains a connection
to nature while also providing mental health advantages during the COVID-19
pandemic. First, gardening is a low-cost pastime that most individuals in the
community can afford, regardless of their social or economic status. Second,
gardening can be done alone or in small groups and can be done outdoors or indoors
during periods of home confinement or restricted activities in preventing the spread of
COVID-19. Third, and perhaps most crucially, it has been shown to have a variety of
health benefits.
Gardening has been proved to improve mental health by reducing depression
and anxiety to individuals and increasing emotional well-being. Gardening positively
affects an individual’s source of income, livelihood, and employment opportunities
(Galhena et al., 2013; Guuroh et al., 2012; Legesse et al., 2016), nutrition and health
(Ferdous et al., 2016; Talukder et al., 2010), and life satisfaction and quality of life
(Soga et al., 2017). Gardening has a direct connection to improved emotional well-
being and positive emotions like happiness and significance.
During the pandemic, one way of beautifying Filipino houses was through
home gardening, and actively seeing their gardens grow made them feel more at
home. Participants noticed the possibility of home gardening to offer food and
ingredients to their households after being trapped inside their homes for months.
Home gardening provided stress reduction and a better mood for Filipino home
gardeners. As a result, according to Chalquist (2019), gardening can improve one's
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mood and aid recovery from trauma. Finally, seeing their plants flourish and multiply
has given them a sense of purpose and success during these trying times.
2.3 Residential Greeneries during the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected and continues to affect a consequential
part of the lives of the people, especially when it had everyone’s lives at a suspension
for a time, confined inside the four corners of a home, and when it was declared safe
enough to continue living — it was never the same as before. Even with the gloom of
the pandemic, people had no choice but to continue working in order to sustain and
make ends meet; students to continue education as to not be left out, and all these to
happen with restrictions hampered inside people’s houses with no access to nature,
due to the preventive measures of quarantine. Residents could only leave their homes
when shopping for necessities, if they are frontliners, and when, in some cases, have
to go to work. This situation has led to multiple effects with regards to the physical
and mental well-being of residents, and by means of this, courses of actions to
mitigate such effects were taken by individuals grappling at home. Many have been
affected and not just a certain demographic, some of the studies included elderlies (J.
Corley et al., 2021), students (Han, 2009), and office workers (Thatcher et al, 2020).
Access to the natural environment and urban green spaces has been put to stop
and discontinued so as to avoid public spaces due to the risk of being exposed to the
virus, but during these times that people need to have things to do and be occupied
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with, therefore they have opted to build domestic gardens and interior greeneries as a
means to relieve stress and improve mental health in times of the crisis.
Much of the recent research has shown that nature can provide many benefits
to public health (A.I. Ribeiro et al., 2021), and along with it, residential greeneries and
domestic gardens have proved to alleviate the stress and anxiety of the COVID-19
crisis and are important as a health resource for both psychological and physical well-
being of residents quarantined at home (J. Corley et al., 2021). Residential greeneries
include natural environments found within the parameters of the residential lot by way
of owning and taking care of plants and related greeneries, more precisely, indoor
plants, balcony plants, and home/courtyard gardens. Different studies have shown that
nature fosters mental health during the pandemic. For instance, a study in Spain
concluded that contact with indoor plants was beneficial (A.I. Ribeiro et al., 2021).
The motivations of people for starting gardening during the pandemic, as reflected in
the work of Harding et al. (2022), included as a hobby, source of happiness,
utilization of space, aesthetic, health benefits, environmental benefits, a form of
exercise, and interacting with other people; even increase mental resilience through
pathways of fostering “emotional regulation”, “relationship”, “confidence”,
“positive“, “thinking”, and “spirituality” (A. Sia et al., 2022).
Maintaining and fostering involvement with greeneries and the natural
environment during the pandemic was associated in improving mental health
outcomes (A.I. Ribeiro et al., 2021). In essence, residential greeneries during the
pandemic had proven to influence different factors such as mental well-being,
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physical health, and behaviour of residents owning plants and participating in home
gardening during the pandemic, as compared to those who simply do not.
Chapter III
Theoretical Framework
3.1 Key Theories and Concepts
This research is mainly anchored on two theories, namely Stress Recovery Theory
(SRT) by (Ulrich, 1983) and Restorative Environment Theory, otherwise known as Attention
Restoration Theory (ART) by (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989).
3.1.1 Stress Recovery Theory
Stress Recovery Theory is concerned with stress recovery in which an
individual encounters a situation that can be deemed as demanding or threatening to
one’s well-being. Ulrich further stated that positive responses are derived from
specific environmental features, particularly those having natural aspects as they
provide a breather from stress, accompanied by liking and reduced levels of arousal
and negative feelings such as fear. Ulrich formulated the theory by comparing the
recovery records of 23 matched pairs of surgical patients; wherein half of the patients
stayed in a room with a window looking out over trees, and the other half in the same
identical room but with a window looking out over brick walls. It is later found out
that those patients with natural views spent less time in hospital recovering in an
operation, had less negative feedback about their healing progress to their nurses, than
those patients with the brick view.
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3.1.2 Restorative Environment Theory
Supporting this is the Restorative Environment theory wherein attention is
then recovered by certain environments after being depleted by demanding tasks.
These theories signify that an environment with natural aspects has restorative effects
against stress and fatigue. Thus, this paper insinuates that the surge of residential
greeneries in the Philippines contributes to the restorative environments of the people
as they are faced with the pandemic, which has been a continuous stressor since its
onset. With stable contact with nature, individuals are able to restore themselves
mentally from tension and regain attention to their daily tasks efficiently.
3.2 Theoretical Framework
Figure 3.2 Pandemic-Residential Greeneries Relation
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Chapter IV
Research Design and Methodology
4.1 Research Design
A quantitative descriptive research design is adopted in this study. This research
design summarizes the trends experienced by individuals and measures variables without
influencing them. Through this method, the study seeks to describe the relationship between
greeneries and the mental well-being of participants during the course of the pandemic.
4.2 Methodology
4.2.1 Sampling and Participants:
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A purposive sampling method was used in choosing the participants as the
research requires specific profiling of respondents. A typical case sampling method
was employed wherein the demographic conditions of the respondents are the
following: (1) residing in Metro Manila, (2) owning plants, and (3) being from the
ages of 18-65 years old.
A sample size of 80 was needed for the study. It was computed using Slovin’s
formula as it was the applicable sample size computation for non-probability
sampling with an unknown population size. Furthermore, the applicability of the
formula was also due to the unknown behavior of the population despite having
similar traits. Consequently, related studies show that Slovin’s formula is used when
it is not possible to study an entire population, a smaller sample is taken using random
sampling technique. Slovin’s formula allows the researcher to sample the population
with the desired degree of accuracy. It provides an idea of how large the sample size
is and gives a reasonable accuracy of results.
Figure 4.2.1. Slovin’s Formula and Computation
N
n= 2
1+ N e
The sample size is denoted by n; the population size is denoted by N, and the
margin of error is denoted by e. An assumed population size of 100 was made to
represent an unknown population size, whereas the margin of error was set to 5%.
Additionally, the computed values can be supported by an article that published a
14
table for determining sample size from a given population (Krejcie, R. V., & Morgan,
D. W., 1970)
Here is the calculation by using the Slovin’s formula for measure the sample
population of this research:
N
n= 2
1+ N e
100
n=
1+(100)¿ ¿
100
n=
1.25
n=80
4.2.2 Data Collection
The researchers administered an online survey through Google Forms
disseminated through social media platforms, particularly Facebook and Twitter, via
posting and link-sharing. Before the actual data collection, the survey included a
consent form stating the following: the intent of the study, the voluntary participation
of the respondent, the measures of confidentiality regarding the respondent’s identity
and information, the respondent’s non-participation at any time of the study, and the
contact details of the researchers. In addressing the research questions stated, the
study relied on quantitative responses. To attain this, the survey adapted questions
from existing questionnaires and studies designed to measure mental well-being and
have significance concerning greeneries and gardening. The survey was also pilot-
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tested on ten individuals having the same profiling of the needed respondents before
distribution.
The survey was divided into four parts. The first part of the survey was
concerned with the profile of the respondent. This included a demographic section
requesting information related to the respondent’s socio-economic condition; and a
greenery engagement section requesting the respondent’s number of ownership of
plants, and the places where gardening activities are engaged (Appendix 1).
The second and third parts of the survey were concerned with reasons for
engagement in having greeneries and changes in planting activities compared to
previous years since the pandemic. The main questions from this segment, together
with its components, which are composed of a 5-point Likert scale, were adapted
from the study, the Urban Forestry & Urban Greening: Gardening can relieve human
stress and boost nature connection during the COVID-19 pandemic, by Egerer et al.
(2022). The questions adapted were Question 1, “During COVID-19, how important
are the following reasons for having a garden?”, and Question 2, “Has the COVID-19
pandemic changed the way you garden compared to previous years?”, respectively for
each part. The main questions’ wording was slightly modified, and some components
were omitted to align with the focus of the study. The table below shows the revision
in survey questions:
Table 4.2.2 Modified Survey Questions
Questions: Answers:
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1. "During COVID-19, how important are 11 Components; Rated on a scale of 1 (not important) to
the following reasons for having 5 (extremely important):
greeneries?" - Connection to nature
- Relaxation and stress-relief
- Outdoor physical activity
- Learning and/or educating
- Growing food or plants to give away
- Social connections
- Fostering culture and identity
- Coping with economic uncertainty/Save money
- Earn money
2. "Has the COVID-19 pandemic changed 5 Components; 5-point scale:

the way you engage in planting activities - Amount of time I spend gardening
compared to previous years? - I am planting or planning to plant
- I am hoping to produce
- I talk/connect with others about gardening
- Amount of gardening information I am seeking
Lastly, the fourth part of the survey was concerned with the mental well-being
of the respondents. The questions from this segment, which are composed of a 5-point
Likert scale, were adapted from the study, the Urban Forestry & Urban Greening: The
impact of gardening on mental resilience in times of stress: A case study during the
COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore, by A. Sia et al. (2021). The questions adapted
were Questions 1 to Questions 10. (Appendix 1).
4.2.3. Data Analysis
Data was collected through a survey. Prior to the survey proper, the survey
questionnaire was submitted to Ar. Jared Aaron Cruz. After validation, the survey
questionnaire was submitted and pre-tested on ten individuals through purposive
sampling. It was then tested for reliability using the statistical test, Cronbach’s Alpha,
with the computation and interpretation below.
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Figure 4.2.3 . Cronbach’s Alpha Formula
Wherein Alpha is denoted by α ; the number of test items is denoted by K; the sum of
the item variance is denoted by Σ s2y; and the variance of the total score is denoted by s2x.
Table 4.2.3.1 Interpreting ALPHA for dichotomous or Likert Scale Question
Cronbach’s Alpha Interpretation
0.90 and above Excellent
0.80-0.89 Good
0.70-0.79 Acceptable
0.60-0.69 Questionable
0.50-0.59 Poor
Below 0.50 Unacceptable
Table 4.2.3.2 Variance obtained from each question (N=10)
Question Variance
Q1 0.76
Q2 0.65
Q3 0.69
Q4 0.84
Q5 1.24
Q6 1.64
18
Q7 1.81
Q8 1.09
Q9 2.29
Q10 1.01
Q11 1.04
Q12 0.65
Q13 1.84
Q14 0.96
Q15 1.04
Q16 0.64
Q17 0.81
Q18 0.89
Q19 1.4
Q20 0.56
Q21 0.8
Q22 1.21
Q23 1.56
Q24 0.64
Table 4.2.3.3 Reliability results obtained from the survey questionnaire pre-testing
(N=10)
INTERNAL
VARIABLES DESCRIPTION VALUES CONSISTENCY
K # of items 24
Σ s2y Sum of item variance 26.06
Variance of total
EXCELLENT
s2x score 218.36
α Cronbach's alpha 0.9189451803
19
The reliability test revealed that the survey questionnaire had an excellent
internal consistency, which prompted the researchers to distribute the material to the
respondents.
Upon completion of the questionnaire by the participants, the researchers summarized
all data collected. For the analysis, the mean, median, mode, variance, and standard
deviation were computed for each of the questions to make an interpretation of the
scores. The interpretation range is as follows:
Table 4.2.3.4. Interpretation of Scores
Interpretation Range
1 1.00 - 1.80
2 1.90 - 2.60
3 2.70 - 3.40
4 3.50 - 4.20
5 4.30 - 5.00
Furthermore, to determine whether there is agreement or disagreement between the
answers, the Standard deviation is closely analyzed. To know if the responses per
question gained a low or high standard deviation, the formula for the coefficient of
variation (CV) was used.
Figure 4.2.3.2 Coefficient of Variation Formula
20
Wherein S is the standard deviation of the data set and M is its mean (average).
Chapter V:
Results and Discussion
This chapter is dedicated for data analysis and results gathered from 80 online
questionnaires from Urban Residences of Metro Manila. The purpose of this study was to
know the significance of greeneries in Urban residences and its impact on its residents during
the Covid-19 Pandemic.
The objectives of the study is to know the relevance of residential greeneries in
residences and evaluate their corresponding impact on the mental health of the users, and find
out whether they affect people in a positive or negative way in terms of mental health state.
Questionnaires were to the 80 respondents from Metro Manila. The mode of answer
was through Google Forms and participants were asked to read and allow consent to indicate
and use their information as part of the study before proceeding to answering the
questionnaires.
21
5.1 Presentation of Data
5.1.1 Respondent’s Profile
Figure 5.1.1.1 Distribution of Respondents by Age (n=80)
22
Figure 5.1.1.2 Distribution of Respondents by sex (n=80)
Figure 5.1.1.3 Distribution of Respondents by Employment Status (n=80)
Figure 5.1.1.4 Distribution of Number of Plants Owned (n=80)
23
Figure 5.1.1.5 Distribution of Spaces where plants are placed and/or
planting activities are conducted at home. Select all that apply: (n=80)
24
5.1.2 Reasons for engagement in Having Greeneries
Table 5.1.2.1. Reasons for engagement in Having Greeneries: scores
obtained, variance, standard deviation, and interpretation of results per question
(n=80)
QUESTION MEAN MED MOD VAR SD INTERPRETATION
1. Connection to 4.55 5 5 0.326582 0.57147 The participants' engagement
nature in gardening as a connection to
nature is tagged as “extremely
important”. The variance and
standard deviation values
show that the responses of the
participants are clustered
around the mean and are close
to each other.
2. Relaxation and 4.66 5 5 0.378323 0.61508 The participants' engagement
stress-relief in gardening as a relaxation
and stress relieving activity is
tagged as “extremely
important”. The variance and
standard deviation values
participants are clustered
25
to each other.
3. Outdoor 4.28 4 5 0.581646 0.76266 The participants' engagement
physical activity in gardening as an outdoor
physical activity is tagged as
“very important”. Based on
the values of the variance and
standard deviation, the
gathered responses remain
clustered around the mean and
are close to each other.
4. Learning 4.4 5 5 0.546835 0.73948 The participants' engagement
and/or educating in gardening for learning and
or education is tagged as
“extremely important”.
Responses remain to be
continue to have a low
standard deviation.
5. Growing food 4.19 4.5 5 0.913766 0.95591 The participants' engagement
or plants to give in gardening for growing food
away or giving away plants is tagged
as “very important”. The
26
values of the variance and
standard deviation reveal the
cluster of responses around the
mean.
6. Social 3.98 4 4 0.708228 0.84156 The participants' engagement
connections in gardening for social
connections is tagged as
“very important”. Having
different suppliers to get your
plants can be very important.
Responses remain to be
continue to have a low
standard deviation.
7. Fostering 4.08 4 4 0.728481 0.85351 The participants' engagement
culture and in gardening for fostering
identity culture and identity. is tagged
as “very important”. The
values of the variance and
standard deviation reveal the
cluster of responses around the
mean.
27
8. Coping with 4.33 5 5 0.627215 0.79119 The participants' engagement
economic 7 in gardening for coping with
uncertainty/Save economic uncertainty is tagged
money as “extremely important”.
The variance and standard
deviation values show that the
responses of the participants
are clustered around the mean
and are close to each other.
9. Earn money 3.65 4 5 1.774684 1.33217 The participants' engagement
in gardening for earning
money is tagged as “very
important”. Responses
remain to be clustered around
the mean and continue to have
a low standard deviation.
5.1.3 Changes in Planting Activities
Table 5.1.2.2 Changes in Planting Activities: scores obtained, variance,
standard deviation, and interpretation of results per question (n=80)
10. Amount of 3.54 4 3 0.909968 0.95392 The respondents reveal that they
28
time I spend spend “more” time
gardening/planti gardening/planting compared to
ng previous years since the
pandemic. The variance and
standard deviation values show
that the responses of the
participants are clustered around
the mean and are close to each
other.
11. I am 3.86 4 4 0.955538 0.97752 The respondents reveal that they
planting or are planting or planning to plant
planning to greeneries “more” compared to
plant previous years since the
other.
12. I am hoping 3.93 4 4 1.108228 1.05272 The respondents reveal that they
to produce are hoping to produce “more”
greeneries compared to previous
years since the pandemic. The
variance and standard deviation
29
values show that the responses
of the participants are clustered
to each other.
13. I 3.5 3.5 3 1.341772 1.15835 The respondents reveal that they
talk/connect are talking to others about
with others gardening “more” compared to
about gardening previous years since the
other.
14. Amount of 3.75 4 4 0.696203 0.83439 The respondents reveal that the
gardening amount of gardening
information I information that they are
am seeking seeking has increased “more”
compared to previous years
since the pandemic. The
30
to each other.
5.1.4 Mental well-being of the Respondents
Table 5.1.2.3 Mental well-being of the Respondents: scores obtained,
variance, standard deviation, and interpretation of results per question (n=80)
15. I am able to 3.9 4 4 0.648101 0.80505 The results indicate that
handle unpleasant respondents are able to handle
emotions, like unpleasant emotions “most of
sadness, fear and the time”. The variance and
anger. standard deviation values show
other.
16. I stay calm in 3.78 4 4 0.682911 0.82638 The results indicate that
difficult respondents are able to stay
31
circumstances. calm in difficult circumstances.
“most of the time”. Responses
the mean and continue to have a
low standard deviation.
17. My religious or 3.98 4 4 0.936076 0.96751 The results indicate that the
moral beliefs give respondents’ religious or moral
me strength and give them strength “most of the
courage for my life. time”. Responses remain to be
continue to have a low standard
deviation.
18. I believe my 4.18 4 5 0.931013 0.96489 The results indicate that the
life has a meaning respondents believe that their
and purpose. life has a meaning and purpose
“most of the time”. Based on
standard deviation, the gathered
responses remain clustered
around the mean and are close to
each other.
19. My family 3.61 4 3 1.404905 1.18529 The results indicate that the
understands how I respondents believe that their
32
feel. family understands how they
feel “most of the time”. The
each other.
20. I am confident 3.86 4 4 0.828956 0.91047 The results indicate that the
that I can solve respondents are confident that
problems in life. they can solve problems in life
“most of the time”. Based on
standard deviation, the gathered
responses remain clustered
each other.
21. I can find 3.9 4 4 0.926582 0.96259 The results indicate that the
humor in difficult respondents can find humor in
situations. difficult situations “most of the
time”. Based on the values of
the variance and standard
deviation, the gathered responses
remain clustered around the
mean and are close to each
33
other.
22. The problems I 3.34 3 3 1.061867 1.03047 The results indicate that the
have are caused by respondents’ problems are
other people. caused by other people “about
half of the time”. Responses
the mean and continue to have a
low standard deviation.
23. In most 3.63 4 3 1.072785 1.03575 The results indicate that the
situations, I worry respondents worry that
that something bad something bad will happen to
will happen to me them or those they love “most of
or those I love. the time”. Responses remain to
be clustered around the mean
and continue to have a low
standard deviation.
24. I do not keep 3.41 3 3 0.903639 0.9506 The results indicate that the
thinking about respondents’ problems are
things I cannot caused by other people “about
change. half of the time”. The variance
and standard deviation values
34
other.
5.2 Discussions
Reasons for engagement in Having Greeneries
Table 10 shows the responses of the subjects regarding their reasons for engagement
in having greeneries wherein the following findings are retrieved from the study. The
Average Mean (AM = 38.10), Median (MD = 4.5), Mode (MO = 5); The results of the study
implies that a majority of the respondents reasons for engagement in having greeneries is to
connect with nature. The results are aligned with the Related Literature in Chapter II,
gardening as an activity is therapeutic not just for physical health but also for the mental
aspect. The importance of learning while also engaging in an outdoor physical activity
enhances the overall experience as it encourages the respondents to seek knowledge of the
said activity thereby increasing mental well-being and improved cognitive functioning (A.
Sia et al., 2022). The implemented lockdowns during the pandemic influenced the majority of
the respondents to start home gardening activities to produce vegetables and fruits as it is a
way of securing household food security and consumption (Mugisa et al.,2016). Social
connections is one of the benefits of the activity as it promotes the gardener/s inter-personal
35
relationship to those with similar interests which can result in better emotional comfort from
social bond (Soga et al., 2017), (Pollard et al.,2018). Further reason according to the
respondents is engaging in greeneries and investing into plant-related business can positively
affect an individual’s source of income and increase employment opportunities (Galhena et
al., 2013; Guuroh et al., 2012; Legesse et al., 2016). The results implies that the majority of
the respondents ascertained that engaging in greeneries can be beneficial on various aspects,
specifically on mental, social and economical status of an individual.
Changes in Planting Activities
Table 11 shows the changes regarding the planting activities where in the
following findings are retrieved from the study. The Average Mean (AM = 18.58), Median
(MD = 4), Mode (MO = 4). The results with regards to gardening activity itself suggested
that the majority of respondents intend to look more into planting. Plant caring does not
require much time which is one of the reasons why more people are getting intrigued with the
said activity, as reflected from the results regarding the amount of time the respondents spend
in gardening. A number of participants stated that connecting with other gardeners and
exchanging information about the gardening enhances positive identity to the garden and
brings about a sense of spirituality (Bernardini and Irvine, 2007). In addition, it promotes
fascination, which in turn motivates the gardener to seek knowledge, exchange ideas and
share one’s development progress in gardening (Kaplan, 1973).
Mental well-being of the Respondents
36
Table 12 shows the responses of the subject regarding the Mental Well-being of the
respondents wherein the following findings are retrieved from the study. The Average Mean
(AM = 37.58), Median (MD = 4), Mode (MO = 4). The results with regards to the Mental
well-being of the Respondents suggests that by interacting nature can increase self esteem
and mood, reduce anger and improve general psychological well-being with positive effects
on emotions and behavior. Time spent in natural settings can aid in reducing mental fatigue
and improving concentration (Entrix 2010, Keniger et al. 2013, Kjellgren and Buhrkall 2010,
White et al. 2017, Wolf and Housley 2014). People who own plants or have direct connection
to nature responded significantly better than the general population to the various mental
health problems that were present even before the pandemic began. According to the results,
majority of the respondents find gardening as a meditative activity in keeping one’s focus on
a positive aspect instead of feeling agitated in response to negative scenarios as supported by
the earlier studies that focused on the positive relationship between gardening and mental
well-being (Koay and Dillon, 2020; Sia et al.,2020; de Bell et al., 2020; Chalmin-Pui et al.,
2021), with evidence on the role of gardening on mental resilience. On another aspect,
mental health was adversely impacted during the pandemic which underscores the urgent
need to understand the multitude of stresses and pathways leading to the deterioration of
mental health and the interventions that can enhance mental resilience, in order to mitigate
the adverse effects of stress brought about by the current COVID-19 pandemic (Poole et al.,
2017; Sheerin et al., 2018; Douglas et al., 2020; Holmes et al., 2020). The pandemic changed
the way on how most people think or view the world, it is important for individuals to
recognize that some of the unexpected life occurrences or problems are caused by other
people rather than constant self-blame as discussed from meta-analysis of studies in
temperate environments showed that gardening can reduce depression, anxiety, and increase
37
life satisfaction, quality of life, as well as sense of community (Soga et al., 2017). Succinctly,
gardening can be a motivating factor as it influence the opportunity for self-expression,
aesthetics, an escape from negative stimuli, a place for leisure, an opportunity to be creative,
a chance to foster skill development, and facilitate social relationships (Ashton-Shaeffer &
Constant, 2006; Clayton, 2007; McFarland et al., 2018).
Chapter VI:
Summary, Conclusions and Recommendation
6.1 Summary
The primary objective of this research was to identify the effect of gardening activity
and interior greeneries as a coping mechanism of the Filipinos against the stress caused by
COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. Although the mentioned quarantine measures were
required to stop the community spread of the disease, it had a negative impact on mental
health, economy, education, and along with social ecologies (Sunga & Advincula, 2021).
The background of the study was done by gathering information from existing papers
that have a concern regarding gardening and mental state during pandemic. The studies
pointed out that planting and gardening has already been an existing activity even before
pandemic yet the sudden rise of its popularity became noticeable after lockdowns. A number
of plant owners decided to try the said activity with the goal of forming it into a coping
38
mechanism or therapy, which can enhance psychological well-being, to lessen the frequency
of distress like depression, stress, and anxiety.
The goal and objective of this research was to evaluate the significance and relevance
of residential greenery and its effects on users' mental health whether it affects positively or
negatively. In addition, the purpose of the paper was to gain more insight on the
psychological effects of green spaces and how it can be used to persuade designers to think
about including more greenery in residential areas.
A quantitative descriptive research design was used on this paper as the data needed
to gather information from the personal experience of individuals regarding the horticulture
activity. The collected information was used to better understand the relationship between
greeneries or green spaces with general health.
The data collection methods were regulated from voluntary participation of the
respondents through online surveys via link-sharing. In addition, Slovin’s Formula as
supported by an article that published a table for calculating sample size from a specific
population could serve as evidence (Krejcie, R. V., & Morgan, D. W., 1970). Furthermore,
the data was validated through a statistical test, Cronbach’s Alpha which then interpreted as
excellent, good, acceptable, questionable, poor, and unacceptable.
6.2 Conclusions
Right from the beginning, people have experimented with plants on how they can help
them heal physically, emotionally, and mentally. When the Covid-19 crisis hit the world,
residents were advised to never leave their houses only unless necessary, following the
39
quarantine protocols, and so the residents were stuck at home dealing with the stress of the
pandemic and how they would survive when everything has been halted.
The general objective of this study was to determine the significance and relevance of
residential greeneries in residences and evaluate their impact on mental health of the users, as
well as, whether these greeneries affect people in a positive or negative way in terms of their
mental health. With these intentions established, the specific objectives of the study were met
as follows:
1. Greeneries in residences during the pandemic are recognized as an imperative
task and decoration in terms of relaxation and stress reliever, along with
connecting to nature even when confined at home. Greeneries help residents
cope up with the stress of the pandemic by participating in physical activities
when tending to their plants.
2. Residents intend to plan more and are planning to plant more during the
pandemic than they were during the pre-pandemic period. As shown in this
study, planting requires less time and is not a strenuous activity that will only
require little effort, and these intrigued people with the activity, especially
during the pandemic.
3. The effect of greeneries in the psychological well-being of residents can be
seen in the interaction with nature which increases self-esteem, behavior, and
mood. In general, greeneries improve the psychological well–being with
positive effects on emotions and behavior of the residents. Additionally, while
mental resilience occurs only depending on the situations, engagement in
40
greeneries positively impacts the mental resilience of the residents most of the
time, especially during pandemic.
6.3 Recommendations
Based on the findings and conclusions of this research, the following
recommendations are for future studies which aim to improve and expand the scope of the
study.
● It is suggested that future researchers should do an in-depth investigation and
research regarding home gardening, mental health, and personal interviews to
provide a specific and accurate approach and observation.
● Random sampling and personal interviews are advised since the participants of
this study were only limited to individuals that have access to internet
connection and the social media presence.
● The study about “Significance of Greeneries in Urban Residences in Metro
Manila, Philippines and its Impact on its Residents during the Pandemic”
could be used to endorse the green space planning in interior spaces or within
residences in general.
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51
Appendix 1
“Significance of Greeneries in Urban Residences in Metro Manila, Philippines and its

Impact on its Residents during the Pandemic”
SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE
PART I. Profile of the Respondents
Demographic Profile
Age: ___________________ Sex:
o Male
o Female
Employment Status:
o Employed
o Self-employed
o Unemployed
Greenery Engagement Profile
Number of Plants Owned:
o 1-3 plants
o 4-6 plants
o More than 6 plants
52
Select all that apply.
Spaces where plants are placed and/or planting activities are

conducted at home:
● Outdoor garden
● Balcony
● Indoor Spaces (living area, dining area, bathroom, kitchen,
bedroom)
● Others. Please specify __________
PART II. Reasons for Engagement in Having Greeneries
Five–Point Scale on Importance
1 Not Important
2 Slightly Important
3 Moderately Important
4 Very Important
5 Extremely Important
Question: During COVID-19, how important are the following reasons for having
greeneries?
53
Components Likert Scale
1 2 3 4 5
1. Connection to nature
2. Relaxation and stress-relief
3. Outdoor physical activity
4. Learning and/or educating
5. Growing food or plants to

give away
6. Social connections
7. Fostering culture and

identity
8. Coping with economic

uncertainty/Save money
9. Earn money
Part III. Changes in Planting Activities
Five–Point Scale on Change
1 Much less
2 Less
54
3 Same/No Change
4 More
5 Much more
Question: Has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way you engage in planting
activities compared to previous years?
Likert Scale
Components
1 2 3 4 5
1. Amount of time I spend

gardening/planting
2. I am planting or planning to
plant
3. I am hoping to produce
4. I talk/connect with others

about gardening
5. Amount of
gardening/planting information
I am seeking
Part IV: Mental Well-Being of the Respondents
The current pandemic has affected our lives and resulted in some changes in our
routines. Despite this, it enabled many of us to spend more time with our family and engage
in various activities including tending to plants. Research shows that green spaces enhance
55
our mental wellbeing and emotional resilience, thus, we would like to understand how you, as
our participant of the study, are coping during this period. The set of statements below,
adapted from the Singapore Mental Health Resilience survey, is a simple scale that assesses
your level of resilience. Please select the option which best describes how much you agree or
disagree with each statement. (Please be assured that your answers will be kept confidential.)
Five–Point Scale on Time
1 Never
2 Sometimes
3 About half the time
4 Most of the time
5 Always
Likert Scale
Components
1 2 3 4 5
1. I am able to handle
unpleasant emotions, like
sadness, fear and anger.
2. I stay calm in difficult

circumstances.
3. My religious or moral
beliefs give me strength and
courage for my life.
4. I believe my life has a

meaning and purpose.
5. My family understands how
56
I feel.
6. I am confident that I can

solve problems in life.
7. I can find humor in difficult

situations.
8. The problems I have are

caused by other people.
9. In most situations, I worry

that something bad will
happen to me or those I love.
10. I do not keep thinking

about things I cannot change.
57

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Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

SIGNIFICANCE OF GREENERIES IN URBAN RESIDENCES IN METRO MANILA,

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

Ar. Jared Aaron R. Cruz, uap

June 30, 2022

increase in activity of gardening and interior greeneries.

as an economic support, stress reliever, workout, and an alternative means of doing

planting activities over the course of the pandemic.

Interior greeneries pertain to views of nature, plants, vegetation, or foliage in the

information he shared with us all throughout the semester.

to obtain the data needed to continue our research.

Figure 3.2 Pandemic-Residential Greeneries Relation……………………………………….12

Figure 4.2.1 Slovin’s Formula and Computation ……………………………..………..……

Figure 5.1.1.1 Distribution of Respondents by Age (n=80) …………………………………

Table 4.2.2 Modified Survey Questions …………………………………………...…………

1.1 Background of the Study

shattered people’s ambitions, upended family dynamics, and employment responsibilities,

As a result, coping methods are used as stress relievers.

can improve psychological well-being.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

This research attempts to collect evidence supporting the study of “Significance of

● How vital are greeneries in residences during the pandemic?

● How has behavior towards planting/gardening changed during the pandemic

● How do greeneries affect psychological well-being?

1.3 Goals and Objectives of the Study

● Determine the amount of respondents who feel positively about having

greeneries in their own respective homes.

professionals in the related field such as medicine, architecture, interior

designing, and most especially to the public.

1.4 Purpose and Significance of the Study

providing more spaces for residential greeneries.

residential houses for its users.

fields for this research.

1.5 Scope, Limitations, and Assumptions

whether it is positive or negatively influencing them.

1.6 Definition of Terms

as long as they are within the property perimeter

information from the respondents

● Pandemic - covers the dates from March 2020 up to June 2022

resident of Metro Manila

stress, while urban environments tend to hinder the same process.

improved by looking at, or time spent in nature

Review of Related Literature and Structures

quarantine levels that would be implemented nationwide such as Enhanced Community

Quarantine (ECQ), Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ), General

Community Quarantine (GCQ) and Modified General Community Quarantine (GCQ) to

restrict movement of individuals. (Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases,

opportunities to be creative in their coping strategies during these difficult times.

2.1 Benefits of Plants in Residences

Green spaces are known to be one of the significant pillars of urban

infrastructure that influences the acceleration of the quality of human life as it

spaces in residences has been beneficial in terms of psychological, physiological, and

economic factors. Amid self-isolation, finding ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle is a

greeneries has the capacity to influence environmental consequences, public

plants to enhance their quality of life.

towards a more positively toned emotional state, positive changes in physiological

to a garden or allotment, was found to be a significant predictor of stress. In fact, the

(Groenewegen et al. 2012).

of the users of the space.

2.2 Planting as a Coping Mechanism during the Pandemic

Home gardening has long been a source of income, a sideline, and a