RESEARCH

Horticultural Therapy and Gardening – Comparison of Dimensions

Horticultural therapy differs from regular gardening by being a structured, goal-oriented therapeutic method designed to improve mental, physical, and emotional well-being.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: General Population

Allied Profession Intersections: Counselling

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health

Access: Free

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Summary

A study by Anna Gulczyńska distinguishes horticultural therapy from traditional gardening, emphasizing that while both can have therapeutic benefits, horticultural therapy is a structured, deliberate process facilitated by trained professionals. It is designed to address specific mental and physical health needs, including improving cognitive function, reducing stress, and aiding social integration.

Horticultural therapy is widely used in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and special education programs, showing positive effects on individuals with mental health disorders, autism, and PTSD. Unlike casual gardening, which focuses on aesthetics and recreation, horticultural therapy involves goal-setting, evaluation, and personalized interventions to maximize therapeutic benefits

Link

Gulczyńska, A. (2020). Horticultural Therapy and Gardening – Comparison of Dimensions. Studia Edukacyjne, 46, 347–356.

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