Horticultural Therapy

The children learn and work in the field of Horticulture, involving the practice of growing and caring for plants for therapeutic and educational reasons. A horticultural therapist works with the children who benefit mentally and physically from the interaction of plants. Children develop a greater sense of self-worth and confidence. Gardening provides a socially acceptable stress release and acts as a creative outlet.

Through Horticultural Therapy and Sandy’s Greenhouse, our children learn where their fruit and vegetables come from.  They are aware of how much effort and care are needed to have them on their plates. The children were involved enthusiastically for over a year in the Greenhouse Project, when we soon realized that we should explore gardening/horticultural therapy for the mental and physical well-being of our children and teenagers.

Gardening/Horticultural Therapy techniques are employed to assist participants to learn new skills or regain those that are lost.  Gardening/Horticultural Therapy helps improve memory, cognitive abilities, task initiation, language skills, and socialization.  In physical rehabilitation, Gardening/Horticultural Therapy can help strengthen muscles and improve coordination, balance, and endurance.  In vocational Gardening/Horticultural Therapy settings, people learn to work independently, problem solve, and follow directions.