Therapeutic Horticulture

About Therapeutic Horticulture

Therapeutic horticulture is the purposeful use of plants and gardening to support health and wellness. At the North Carolina Botanical Garden, we have offered this unique service to individuals and groups since 1978, ranging from underserved children to elders with limited outdoor access to disenfranchised individuals in our communities.

The practice of therapeutic horticulture has proven to be a valuable complementary service for addressing the wide range of human needs–including emotional, social, physical, and spiritual needs–that can affect our well-being. Activity sessions have been conducted in inclusive settings and led by trained individuals.

The mission of the Therapeutic Horticulture Program is to promote health and healing through positive connections with plants, nature, and people.

Watch our Horticultural Therapy program on UNC-TV’s North Carolina Science Now

New at the Garden!

Certificate in Therapeutic Horticulture

In 2018 the garden launched a pilot training program, the Certificate in Therapeutic Horticulture (CTH), to meet the growing demand among allied health professionals and students who want to incorporate plant-based therapy into their practices. This 16-month program includes classroom learning, field trips, hands on activities, and an internship. We expect to offer an updated program again in the fall of 2020.

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Intro to Therapeutic Horticulture begins in August

Starting in mid-August, we will offer a six-week, online Introduction to Therapeutic Horticulture class in partnership with NC State Extension Gardener. The Introduction to Therapeutic Horticulture course is the first in an intended series of online courses that teach the theory, practice, and profession of therapeutic horticulture. Students will gain an overview of historical uses…

Horticultural Therapy receives Strowd Roses grant

“I came to the farm in the spring of 2015….I took to it right away and still feel a sense of relief when I arrive. Horticulture Therapy became a big part of my life when I was really struggling with my mental illness. It gave me a purpose and a place to retreat.”—Client, Horticultural Therapy…

Horticultural Therapy at NCBG

by Abby Zaleski, Communications Student The Horticultural Therapy program at the North Carolina Botanical Garden has a mission to promote health and well-being of people through positive interactions with plants and nature. Led by horticultural therapist Sally Haskett, this program benefits people of all ages and backgrounds, giving them support to get through the daily…

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