You may not have heard the term therapeutic horticulture (TH) before – I had not despite experiencing the benefits of plants and gardening on my own well-being for many years. TH is rooted in the human connection with plants – something that has been recognized as far back as ancient civilizations.

What is Therapeutic Horticulture?

TH is provided by a trained TH practitioner who uses plants, gardening, and plant-based activities to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being in individuals and groups. TH recognizes the innate connection between humans and nature, tapping into the restorative power of plants and outdoor environments. It can utilize a range of activities, such as gardening and plant care, plant-based art and craft projects, sensory experiences, nature walks, and education about plants.

Benefits for Mental Health

Research has shown that therapeutic horticulture offers several benefits for mental health. Gardening activities can reduce levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Caring for plants can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Exposure to plants and green spaces – indoors and out - has been shown to enhance mood, boost self-esteem, and improve cognitive function. Repetitive tasks such as planting seeds or weeding can be very calming and mindful. It turns out that there is a scientific reason for the benefits many have experienced through gardening. Researchers have found that garden soil contains a mycobacterium that actually stimulates the body to increase levels of serotonin – an effect similar to antidepressant medications! 

Supporting Physical Well-being

In addition to its mental health benefits, therapeutic horticulture can also have a positive impact on physical well-being. Engaging in gardening activities provides a low-impact form of exercise, promoting flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. Exposure to sunlight facilitates the production of vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function. By encouraging movement and outdoor activity, therapeutic horticulture supports overall physical vitality and longevity.

Social Connection

Beyond its individual benefits, therapeutic horticulture fosters a sense of community and social connection. Group gardening activities provide opportunities for collaboration, communication, and teamwork, strengthening interpersonal relationships and combating feelings of isolation. Whether tending to a communal garden plot or participating in horticultural therapy sessions, individuals find solace and support in the company of others who share a love for nature. 

Vocational Training

TH is used to work with various populations to learn new skills that can help them secure permanent work. This is often used in Veterans, inmates, and individuals with disabilities. In addition to vocational skills, TH can help these individuals gain the confidence and self-worth needed to succeed in the working world.

Tailoring TH Programming to Achieving Accessibility

One of the unique aspects of therapeutic horticulture is its accessibility. Gardening can be practiced by people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Whether in urban centers or rural communities, gardens offer a welcoming space for individuals to connect with nature. TH activities can be tailored to meet the needs of the individuals participating. Whether that is accomplished with specialized tools for someone with limited mobility, raised beds to allow a participant using a wheelchair to access the soil, or utilizing plants that tap into smell, touch, and taste for individuals with visual impairments.

A Growing Movement

The benefits of TH have been known for centuries, but their importance in today’s world cannot be overlooked. In a time where stress levels and screen time are at an all-time high, feelings of isolation and loneliness prevail, and as a society, we are becoming more and more sedentary, TH has the potential to help us make our health a priority – without the need for medication. From community gardens and hospital green spaces to residential care facilities and educational programs, therapeutic horticulture is being integrated into a variety of settings to support the health and well-being of diverse populations. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, perhaps the remedy we seek lies not in the latest technological advancements, but in the simple act of digging our hands into the earth and allowing nature to heal us from within.