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