RESEARCH

Gardening Trends, Weltschmerz, and Therapeutic Horticulture

The article links the growing popularity of gardening to a sense of world-weariness and highlights the potential for horticultural therapy to address these feelings. Results show that horticultural therapy practitioners are well-positioned to provide garden-based services that promote well-being and counteract the stresses of modern life.
Program Types: Social
Population Groups: General Population, Industry Professionals
Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening
Evidence Type: Industry Reports
Access: Free
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Summary

This article explores the rise in popularity of gardening, particularly houseplants, and connects it to a feeling of “weltschmerz,” a German term for world-weariness or dissatisfaction with the state of the world. The author suggests that the surge in gardening is driven by a desire to counteract the stresses of modern life, including political division, climate change, and long work hours, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. People are turning to plants as an “emotional balm” and seeking the restorative benefits of nature to mitigate these feelings.

The article emphasizes the role of horticultural therapy practitioners in providing meaningful garden-based services for people experiencing weltschmerz and the mental health challenges resulting from the pandemic. These professionals can leverage their expertise to design programs and activities that promote overall health and well-being through horticultural engagement. The author encourages practitioners to stay attuned to current gardening trends and consider offering virtual or in-person workshops and consultations to expand their reach and address the growing need for therapeutic horticultural interventions.

Link

Morgan, S. (2020). Gardening trends, weltschmerz, and therapeutic horticulture. Horticultural Therapy Institute.

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