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About HT

Horticultural Therapy is:

A process of using plants, directed by a horticultural therapist, through which people receive psychological, physical, social and/or educational benefits.

Plants are used in hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, community gardens, senior centers, rehabilitation programs and other settings because they:

  • Grow and change
  • Respond to care but do not judge
  • Encourage participation – help teach skills
  • Stimulate the senses
  • Rediscover hope – a look to the future

“Gardening is one of the oldest healing arts; Yet as a science, it is very new among the therapeutic professions. This new science is called Horticultural Therapy.” — Dr. Diane Relf

Horticultural Therapy offers individual and group projects that provide:

  • Sensory stimulation
  • Environmental enhancement
  • Creative activities that involve body and mind
  • Opportunities to improve concentration, motivation, work tolerance and manual dexterity
  • Increased self confidence and the ability to cope with daily tasks
  • A broader interest in our natural surroundings