Newsletters & Blog

In this article we discuss how we are empowering therapeutic horticulture professionals through our CTHP™ certification and the GrowTH Network. It features Amy Gina Gutzmann’s inspiring journey in the field and highlights the importance of ongoing education, community support, and advocacy. Discover how Root in Nature is helping practitioners make a real impact by connecting people with the healing power of plants.

The International People Plant Symposium 2024 (IPPS) was held in Reading, UK from July 10th to 12th, 2024, brought together a diverse group of professionals and enthusiasts to explore the profound impact of horticulture on human health. The event was hosted at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Reading, Berkshire, UK, and featured keynote addresses by esteemed researchers and professionals, including Dr. Rachel Bragg, OBE, and Dr. Sue Stuart Smith, author of “The Well Gardened Mind.” Their insights, along with contributions from over 40 presenters, highlighted the diverse ways horticulture can support health and well-being. Alexis Ashworth, Katie McGillivray and Kristin Topping (of Sweetlife Flora) were delighted to attend and are pleased to share these collective reflections with you.

As a dedicated therapeutic horticulture practitioner, you understand the importance of continuous learning and professional growth. Our Advancing Skills in Therapeutic Horticulture Course offers a pathway to a Certified Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner (CTHP™) Certification. This certification will enhance your therapeutic horticulture knowledge and accelerate your career by acknowledging your expertise and dedication to the field.

Every month we spotlight a member of the GrowTH Network in The Root Beat newsletter. This month we are featuring Therapeutic Horticulture practitioner, Rebecca Reimer.…

From the gentle act of seed saving, the mindful practice of companion planting and the resilience found in the face of change during transplanting, each step of plant care offers a moment for reflection, growth, and connection that ultimately promotes self-care. Led by experienced instructors Katie and Kristin, our new course, Mind, Body & Soil™ will guide you through the rich tapestry of gardening practices, inviting you to cultivate not only a flourishing garden but also a deeper connection to yourself, and the natural world In this article, we take a look at the different topics covered in our Mind, Body & Soil™ including the phases of seed starting, growth, and transplanting and explore how these activities contribute to your own self-care.

Sensory gardens are therapeutic landscapes designed to engage the senses—sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing—creating a unique environment that fosters a deep connection with the natural world. These gardens, filled with carefully selected sensory plants, are not just visually appealing; they allow for moments of healing, comfort, play and sensory exploration. 

By engaging with soil, plants, and the outdoors, children and youth can explore the enriching experiences that nature uniquely provides, fostering growth and learning in a way that screens simply cannot replicate. In this blog post we dive into how gardening can be a powerful tool for personal growth and well-being, especially for children and youth.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of structured gardening programs in recreational therapy and explore activities you can add into your practice. We’ll dive into the social and therapeutic benefits of therapeutic horticulture, both indoors and outdoors, and discuss its integration with other therapeutic methods for overall health and well-being.

Dear friend of Root in Nature, December in Canada naturally inspires reflection, with the beautiful first snowfalls and the quiet serenity they bring. As someone who thinks more about the future than the past, I find the changing of the calendar year an invigorating time full of new possibilities and ideas. Those closest to me are subjected to my old-school vision boards on New Years Eve each year!

In this blog post, we’ll explore the remarkable benefits of nature at work and creating a biophilic office or workplace that not only enhances your work life but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable future. Plus, stay tuned for an exciting announcement at the end about our upcoming e-learning course, Nature at Work, launching in just one week!

In this blog post we dive into the importance of taking photographs in your therapeutic practices as well as the ethical best practices which you should consider.

The approach of fall and winter provides a unique set of challenges and opportunities for therapeutic horticulture practitioners. Whether you’re looking to master the art…

This guide will illuminate the lesser-known characteristics of some common plants, explore what you should do if a participant comes into contact with poisonous plants and safety tips you should implement in your therapeutic practice.

Discover the transformative world of therapeutic horticulture with our comprehensive and self-paced online learning course, designed for recreation therapists and other allied health professionals seeking to harness the profound potential of plants and gardening in their therapeutic approach.

In a world where stress and mental health issues are on the rise, Root in Nature is on a mission to strengthen human health through…