RESEARCH

Human Issues in Horticulture

Research in Human Issues in Horticulture demonstrates that plants have numerous positive effects on human life, including environmental, economic, and social benefits. The study reveals that plants can improve air quality, increase property values, enhance business performance, and contribute to healthier communities.

Program Types: Social

Population Groups: General Population

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Stress Management, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Community Building

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

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

Access: Free

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Summary

This research paper discusses Human Issues in Horticulture (HIH), a field that explores how plants and horticulture affect human life and well-being. The authors describe various areas of HIH research, including how plants modify the physical environment, their impact on business and economics, and their role in creating healthy communities. They explain that plants can improve air and water quality, reduce heat, and provide wildlife habitats in urban areas. The paper also highlights how plants can benefit businesses by increasing property values, improving employee productivity, and attracting customers to landscaped areas.

The research shows that plants have significant positive effects on human life in various settings. For example, interior plants can improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants and regulating humidity. In urban areas, trees and landscaping can increase property values, reduce energy costs, and create more appealing business districts. The authors also mention the economic impact of the horticulture industry itself, which generates billions of dollars annually through landscaping, maintenance, and retail sales. Overall, the paper emphasizes the wide-ranging benefits of plants and horticulture on human well-being, economic development, and community health.

Link

Relf, P.D., & Lohr, V.I. (2003). Human issues in horticulture. Hortscience 38, (5), 984-993

https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/38/5/article-p984.pdf

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