About Horticultural Therapy

Horticultural therapy is the practice of gardening as therapy to improve human well-being. According to the American Horticultural Therapy Association, HT is defined as “a process utilizing plants and horticultural activities to improve social, educational, psychological and physical adjustment of persons thus improving their body, mind, and spirit.”

One specific area of mental health in which therapeutic horticulture has found a place is the care and treatment of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Horticultural therapy can help patients deal with loss and grief.

Gardening can be a very fulfilling activity for the elderly. Tending plants can battle feelings of isolation by giving individuals the opportunity to play a more active part in the world around them. Being responsible for the care of plants can help residents feel more in control.

The Green Circle Garden has been designed to provide a safe and stimulating environment for patients. Sensory stimuli associated with gardens have been used to provoke memories in reminiscence therapy. The actual design of the garden is of great importance and there has been a lot of interest and research in the development of the GC Garden.