What is horticultural therapy?

Horticultural therapy uses nature activities to improve physical, intellectual, psychological, spiritual, and social well-being. A horticultural therapist is a trained professional who utilizes horticulture in a structured, purposeful program to meet specific therapeutic and rehabilitative goals for individuals and groups.

What are the benefits of horticultural therapy services?

One of the primary reasons people seek our horticultural therapy services is to help themselves or their loved ones remove barriers to the universal human need for nature experiences. Everyone, no matter their situation, can benefit from nature-based therapy whether they have access to the outdoors or not. Benefits include:

• To experience the joy and leisure of being with nature and plant life. 

• To creatively express oneself through horticultural activities.

• To regain or improve in motor, social, and cognitive skills.

• To breathe, reduce stress, and support aspects of physiological functioning.

• To orient oneself to the seasons and to our surroundings.

• To socialize with others in a multi-sensory environment.

• To weather life’s changes, engage in life review, or support spiritual needs.

• To learn new horticulture skills and education.

• To access nature and remove barriers to nature access.

• To foster community around a common goal.

• To achieve a greater quality of life via unique nature experiences.
  

What will we do in horticultural therapy sessions?

We share a seasonal collection of plants in bloom year round, and engage the five senses in a variety of ways that might include planting, gardening, floral arranging, nature and plant education, propagating, and nature craft projects. We provide materials for group and individual projects, and provide consulting for larger projects such as wheelchair accessible gardens. Every session is uniquely catered to the individuals strengths, goals, and safety considerations.

Is there a body of research to support horticultural therapy?

It is widely recognized that nature has a positive effect on our health. The American Horticultural Therapy Association publishes The Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, an annual peer-reviewed professional journal presenting research on horticultural therapy.

Do I have to have a garden or outdoor space? What happens when it is raining?

We adapt our horticultural therapy experiences to your home or facility, abilities, and interests to provide year round services. Neither outdoor space nor good weather are required to enjoy our services.

To find out more information about horticultural therapy services, contact us today.