RESEARCH

Horticulture for Health Activity in U.S. Hospitals: Horticultural Therapy, Nutrition-led Programming, Gardens at Hospitals, and Affiliated Community Gardens

U.S. hospitals are increasingly integrating horticulture into healthcare, using therapeutic gardens, horticultural therapy, and nutrition-led programs to improve patient and community well-being.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: General Population, Master Gardeners

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Enhanced Spiritual Health, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Nursing

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

Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

A study on horticulture for health initiatives in U.S. hospitals identified four key areas where horticulture plays a role: horticultural therapy (HT), hospital gardens, nutrition-led programs, and affiliated community gardens. While HT supports patient recovery in settings such as cancer treatment, mental health, and rehabilitation, hospital gardens provide restorative spaces for patients, families, and staff, reducing stress and enhancing healing.

Nutrition-focused programs, including produce prescription initiatives and hospital-based urban farms, promote preventative healthcare and chronic disease management. Many hospitals also partner with community gardens to improve food security and provide therapeutic horticulture. Despite the growing recognition of horticulture’s health benefits, HT remains underutilized due to limited funding and lack of third-party insurance reimbursement, highlighting the need for further integration and research

Link

Fleming, L., Zhang, W. & Nelson, K. (2022). Horticulture for health in U.S. hospitals: Horticultural therapy, gardens in hospitals, nutrition-led programs & affiliated community gardens. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 32(1), 13-32.

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