Horticultural therapy and therapeutic horticulture have long been recognized for their positive impacts on mental, physical, and emotional well-being. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving motor skills and cognitive function, the benefits of engaging with nature are profound. But to ensure these practices continue to grow and gain credibility, we need solid research to guide, support, and strengthen their role in physical and mental health fields and beyond.
This month, we’re thrilled to launch our completely free, fully sortable research database – featuring hundreds of research articles categorized by program type, population group, setting, and health benefits. Designed to empower practitioners, this tool makes it easier than ever to explore evidence-based insights on the therapeutic, social, and vocational impacts of horticultural therapy.
Keep reading to find out why having access to this research is so important.
Table of Contents
1. Validating the Impact of Therapeutic Horticulture & Horticultural Therapy
Many practitioners have seen firsthand how therapeutic horticulture transforms lives—a stroke survivor regaining fine motor skills while planting seeds, or a person with dementia recalling cherished memories while touching the leaves of a familiar plant. But while these stories are powerful, research provides the credible data needed to gain institutional support and expand these programs.
For example, a recreational therapist in a senior living facility may notice that residents who participate in garden activities seem more engaged and less anxious. Research backs this up—a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that older adults who engaged in gardening had lower levels of stress and improved overall mood compared to those who didn’t. Having access to such evidence allows therapists to advocate for more structured, long-term horticultural programs in their facilities.
2. Guiding Best Practices
Not all gardening activities are equally effective for different population groups, and research helps practitioners refine their approach. For example, consider occupational therapists working with veterans with PTSD. Studies have shown that engaging in greenhouse activities can lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation. This knowledge leads them to introduce structured greenhouse work as part of their therapy sessions.
Perhaps a direct service employee in the memory care unit of a senior assisted living facility learns from case studies that sensory gardens with fragrant plants like lavender and rosemary can reduce agitation in dementia patients. This knowledge could encourage them to advocate for the facility to create a dedicated sensory garden space.
By drawing from research, these professionals can ensure their programs are not only engaging but also optimized for real therapeutic impact.
3. Advancing Professional Development
For recreational therapists, horticultural therapists, occupational therapists, activity managers and more, staying updated with research is key to both career growth and client outcomes. Access to the latest research and studies can:
- Enhance credibility and confidence – A therapist who understands the scientific link between gardening and cognitive function can better communicate the benefits of their programs to administrators and families.
- Open career opportunities – Many professional certifications require ongoing education and knowledge of evidence-based practices.
- Encourage new approaches – Access to research introduces therapists to emerging techniques, such as indoor gardening for year-round interventions or adaptive tools that make gardening more accessible for clients with physical limitations, allowing them to enhance and diversify their programs.
Our research database simplifies access to these insights, helping professionals stay ahead of the curve and bring the best possible care to their clients.
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4. Strengthening Funding and Program Development
Securing funding is often one of the biggest hurdles in expanding horticultural therapy programs. Decision-makers and grant funders want clear, measurable proof that these programs make a tangible difference. This is where research becomes a powerful tool.
For instance, an occupational therapist advocating for a HT/TH program in a hospital rehab unit can present studies showing that gardening tasks enhance both fine and gross motor skills, aiding recovery. Likewise, a long-term care facility applying for a wellness grant can support their proposal with research demonstrating that therapeutic horticulture reduces depression, boosts cognitive function, and improves overall quality of life in older adults.
When funding proposals are backed by strong, evidence-based data, they become far more persuasive—helping practitioners gain financial support, expand their programs, and ultimately reach more people in need.
5. Enhancing Collaboration and Innovation
By making research more accessible, we’re fostering a community of learning and collaboration. Practitioners can share insights, adapt successful models, and contribute to the field’s growth. Whether working in long-term care, rehabilitation centers, schools, or community gardens, professionals now have a centralized resource to explore what’s working and how they can enhance their programs.
Introducing the Horticultural Therapy/Therapeutic Horticulture Research Database
To support the growing need for evidence-based practice, we are proud to introduce the Horticultural Therapy / Therapeutic Horticulture Research Database—a comprehensive, fully searchable collection of research studies dedicated to the benefits, methodologies, and applications of horticultural therapy (HT) and therapeutic horticulture (TH).
This free resource is designed to serve a wide range of professionals:
- Researchers – Access peer-reviewed studies, case studies, and meta-analyses to support further academic work.
- Practitioners – Discover evidence-based strategies and interventions to enhance therapeutic horticulture programs.
- Educators – Utilize research findings to develop curricula for HT/TH and related fields.
- Policymakers & Funders – Review data on program effectiveness to support policy initiatives and grant funding.
- Healthcare Professionals – Explore how HT/TH connects with occupational therapy, physical therapy, nursing, social work, and counseling.
How the Database Works
To ensure easy access to relevant studies, our database is structured with a detailed tagging system, categorizing research by:
- Program Type – Defines the nature of the intervention.
- Population Groups – Identifies the target demographic.
- Setting or Context – Specifies the environment in which the intervention occurs.
- Health & Wellness Outcomes – Highlights key benefits and effects.
- Allied Profession Intersections – Indicates related fields applying the research.
- Type of Activity – Describes specific horticultural interventions.
- Evidence Type – Classifies the research methodology.
- Measurement & Evaluation – Details how outcomes are assessed.
- Research Source – Identifies where the study originates.
- Access – Specifies whether the research is freely available or requires payment.
This structured approach makes it easier than ever for users to quickly locate the most relevant studies for their work, advocacy, or academic research.
A Dedication to Dr. Paula Diane Relf
This research database was made possible by the generous support and vision of Dr. Diane Relf, a pioneer in horticultural therapy whose dedication to research and education has shaped the field and inspired countless practitioners, researchers, and students.
Her work has elevated horticultural therapy from anecdotal success stories to a respected, evidence-based discipline, influencing everything from therapeutic program design to academic training and policy development.
