Populations & Horticulture Program
A range of populations are using horticulture-focused programs as health strategies. Information related to these populations and programs is included in this category:
|
Senior care/dementia
Corrections Migrant & refugee |
Eating disorders
Veterans & active military Children & youth |
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Trauma recovery Mental health |
Photo by Pauline Bernard on Unsplash
SENIOR CARE/DEMENTIA CARE
Horticulture activity, programs, gardens, views of plants and access to nature and outdoors can have positive impacts on seniors in all of the health domains. social interactions, psychosocial benefits, nutritional benefits, sensory experiences and increased exposure to sunlight (vitamin D) for melatonin production, reduction in agitation, Research validates these, with increasing interest in strategies for specific segments of elder populations including people living with dementia, seniors with physical deficits, those living in seniors’ facilities and green care farms.
Refer to category Horticulture for Health Overview – Gardening health benefits and category Horticultural Therapy & Health Services – Horticultural Therapy/Therapeutic Horticulture for related resources.
Horticulture activity, programs, gardens, views of plants and access to nature and outdoors can have positive impacts on seniors in all of the health domains. social interactions, psychosocial benefits, nutritional benefits, sensory experiences and increased exposure to sunlight (vitamin D) for melatonin production, reduction in agitation, Research validates these, with increasing interest in strategies for specific segments of elder populations including people living with dementia, seniors with physical deficits, those living in seniors’ facilities and green care farms.
Refer to category Horticulture for Health Overview – Gardening health benefits and category Horticultural Therapy & Health Services – Horticultural Therapy/Therapeutic Horticulture for related resources.
Key organizations
Alzheimer's Association
American Horticultural Therapy Association
Administration on Aging (AoA) - an agency of the U.S Department of Health and Human Services
Thrive
American Horticultural Therapy Association
Administration on Aging (AoA) - an agency of the U.S Department of Health and Human Services
Thrive
BOOKS, JOURNALS & EPUBLICATIONS ON senior care/dementia care
Carman, J. (2021). Design for Generations. https://designforgenerations.com/case-studies/
Cassidy, P. (2011). Gardening for seniors.
Chalfont, G. (2008). Dementia Green Care Handbook of Therapeutic Design and Practice.
Chalfont, G. (2007). Design for nature in dementia care. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N. (2014). Therapeutic landscapes: An evidence-based approach to designing healing gardens and restorative outdoor spaces. John Wiley and Sons. Inc.
Pollock, A. & Marshall, M. (Eds.) (2012). Designing outdoor spaces for people living with dementia. Hammond Press & DSDC.
Cassidy, P. (2011). Gardening for seniors.
Chalfont, G. (2008). Dementia Green Care Handbook of Therapeutic Design and Practice.
Chalfont, G. (2007). Design for nature in dementia care. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N. (2014). Therapeutic landscapes: An evidence-based approach to designing healing gardens and restorative outdoor spaces. John Wiley and Sons. Inc.
Pollock, A. & Marshall, M. (Eds.) (2012). Designing outdoor spaces for people living with dementia. Hammond Press & DSDC.
RESEARCH & ARTICLES ON SENIOR CARE/DEMENTIA CARE
Recently published selected research & articles:
Ascencio, J., Wojtaszek, D. & Davalos, D. (2019). Horticultural therapy support group for older adult caregivers: Examining intervention effectiveness using psychometrically validated measures. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(2).
Besser, L. (2021). Green space exposure and brain health measures related to Alzheimer’s disease: A rapid review. BMJ Open, 11(5), e043456. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043456
Blake, M. & Mitchell, G. (2016). Horticultural therapy in dementia care: A literature review. Nurs Stand., 30(21), 41-7. doi: 10.7748/ns.30.21.41.s44
Bosia, D., Montacchini, E., Savio, L. & Tedesco, S. (2020). Aging-people accessibility to urban garden: A case study in Turin. In International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, 327-334. Springer, Cham.
Bourdon, E. & Belmin, J. (2021). Enriched gardens improve cognition and independence of nursing home residents with dementia: A pilot controlled trial. Alzheimers Res Ther., 13(1), 116. doi: 10.1186/s13195-021-00849-w
Cassidy, P. (2019). The Portland Memory Garden: Collaboration in action. AHTA Magazine, 47(2), 4-5.
Chan, HY., Ho, RC., Mahendran, R., Ng, KS., Tam, WW., Rawtaer, I., Tan, CH., Larbi, A., Feng, L., Sia, A., Ng, MK. Gan, GL. & Kua, EH. (2017). Effects of horticultural therapy on elderly' health: Protocol of a randomized controlled trial. BMC Geriatr., 17(1), 192. doi: 10.1186/s12877-017-0588
Chu, HY., Chan, HS. & Chen, MF. (2021). Effects of horticultural activities on attitudes toward aging, sense of hope and hand-eye coordination in older adults in residential care facilities. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(12), 6555. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18126555
D’Cunha, NM., Isbel, S., McKune, AJ., Kellett, J. & Naumovski, N. (2020). Activities outside of the care setting for people with dementia: A systematic review. BMJ Open, 10(10), e040753. doi: a10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040753.
de Boer, B., Buist, Y., de Bruin, S.R., Backhaus, R. & Verbeek, H. (2021). Working at green care farms and other innovative small-scale long-term dementia care facilities requires different competencies of care staff. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(20), 10747. doi: 10.3390/ijerph182010747
de Bruin, S.R., Pedersen, I., Eriksen, S., Hassink, J., Vaandrager, L. & Patil, G.G. (2020). Care farming for people with dementia; What can healthcare leaders learn from this innovative care concept? J Healthc Leadersh., 12, 11-18. doi: 10.2147/JHL.S202988
Detweiler, MB., Sharma, T., Detweiler, JG., Murphy, PF., Lane, S., Carman, J., Chudhary, AS., Halling, MH. & Kim, KY. (2012). What is the evidence to support the use of therapeutic gardens for the elderly? Psychiatry Investig., 9(2), 100-10.
De Rui, M., Toffanello, ED., Veronese, N., Zambon, S., Bolzetta, F., Sartori, L., Musacchio, E., Corti, MC., Baggio, G., Crepaldi, G., Perissinotto, E., Manzato, E. & Sergi, G. (2014). Vitamin D deficiency and leisure time activities in the elderly: Are all pastimes the same? PLoS One, 9(4), e94805. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094805
Detweiler, D., Murphy, P.F., Myers, L.C., et al. (2008). Does a wander garden influence inappropriate behaviors in dementia residents? American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 23(1), 31-45. doi: 10.1177/1533317507309799
Fielder, H. & Marsh, P. (2021). 'I used to be a gardener': Connecting aged care residents to gardening and to each other through communal garden sites. Australas J Ageing, 40(1), e29-e36. doi: 10.1111/ajag.12841
Freeman, S., Banner, D., Labron, M., Betkus, G., Wood, T., Branco, E. & Skinner, K. (2022). "I see beauty, I see art, I see design, I see love." Findings from a resident-driven, co-designed gardening program in a long-term care facility. Health Promot Chronic Dis Prev Can., 42(7), 288-300. doi: 10.24095/hpcdp.42.7.03
Gonzalez, M.T. & Kirkevold, M. (2014). Benefits of sensory garden and horticultural activities in dementia care: A modified scoping review. J Clin Nurs., 23(19-20), 2698-715. doi: 10.1111/jocn.12388
Goto, S., Shen, X., Sun, M., Hamano, Y. & Herrup, K. (2018). The positive effects of viewing gardens for persons with dementia. J Alzheimers Dis., 66, 1705–20. doi: 10.3233/JAD-170510
Hall, J., Mitchell, G., Webber, C. & Johnson, K. (2018). Effect of horticultural therapy on wellbeing among dementia day care programme participants: A mixed-methods study (Innovative Practice). Dementia, (London) 17(5), 611-620. doi: 10.1177/1471301216643847
Han, AR., Park, SA. & Ahn, BE. (2018). Reduced stress and improved physical functional ability in elderly with mental health problems following a horticultural therapy program. Complement Ther Med., 38, 19-23. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.03.011
Hassink, J., Vaandrager, L., Buist, Y. & de Bruin, S. (2019). Characteristics and challenges for the development of nature-based adult day services in urban areas for people with dementia and their family caregivers. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 16(8), 1337. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16081337
Jackson, S. (2005). The potential on the doorstep: The importance of gardening in the psychological well-being of older people. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 16, 28–37.
Jarrott, S.E. & Gigliotti, C.M. (2010). Comparing responses to horticulture-based and traditional activities in dementia care programs. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 25(8), 657-665. doi: 10.1177/1533317510385810
Kikukawa, H. & Toyoda, M. (2021). Gardening programs based on METs and HR values are needed to prevent dementia in elderly people requiring support. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Kim, SO., Pyun, SB. & Park, SA. (2021b) Improved cognitive function and emotional condition measured using electroencephalography in the elderly during horticultural activities. HortScience, 1(aop), 1-10.
Kim, Y.H., Park, C.S., Bae, H.O., Lim, E.J., Kang, K.H., Lee, E.S., ... & Huh, M.R. (2020). Horticultural therapy programs enhancing quality of life and reducing depression and burden for caregivers of elderly with dementia. Journal of People Plants Environment, 23, 305-320.
Kunimi, M. (2013). The effect of horticultural activity on the cognitive performance of healthy elderly. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 23(2).
Lee, Y. & Kim, S. (2008). Effects of indoor gardening on sleep, agitation, and cognition in dementia patients—a pilot study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry, 23(5), 485-9. doi: 10.1002/gps.1920
Levinger, P., Cerin, E., Milner, C &, Hill, K.D. (2022). Older people and nature: The benefits of outdoors, parks and nature in ligh of COVID-19 and beyond- where to from here? Int J Environ Health Res., 32(6), 1329-1336. doi: 10.1080/09603123.2021.1879739
Liao, M.L., Shih, F.L., Lin, F.E., Chen, Y.J. & Tang, Y.T. (2021). Design ideas of a healing garden for improving the health of aging people with intellectual disability. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1313: International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: Past, Present and Future.
Lin, Y., Lin, R., Liu, W. & Wu, W. (2022). Effectiveness of horticultural therapy on physical functioning and psychological health outcomes for older adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 31(15-16), 2087-2099.
Lo, S.K.L., Lam, W.Y.Y., Kwan, R.Y.C., Tse, M..M.Y., Lau, J.K.H. & Lai C.K.Y. (2019). Effects of horticultural therapy: Perspectives of frail and pre-frail older nursing home residents. Nurs Open., 6(3), 1230-1236. doi: 10.1002/nop2.323
Lu, L., Lan, S., Hsieh, Y., Yen, Y., Chen, J. & Lan, S. (2019). Horticultural therapy in patients with dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 35, 1-11.
Magnussen, I.L., Alteren, J. & Bondas, T. (2021). "Human flourishing with dignity": A meta-ethnography of the meaning of gardens for elderly in nursing homes and residential care settings. Glob Qual Nurs Res., 8:23333936211035743. doi: 10.1177/23333936211035743
Makizako, H., Tsutsumimoto, K., Doi, T., Hotta, R., Nakakubo, S., Liu-Ambrose, T. & Shimada, H. (2015). Effects of exercise and horticultural intervention on the brain and mental health in older adults with depressive symptoms and memory problems: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial [UMIN000018547]. Trials. 16, 499. doi: 10.1186/s13063-015-1032-3
Malberg Dyg, P., Christensen, S. & Peterson, CJ. (2020). Community gardens and wellbeing amongst vulnerable populations: A thematic review. Health Promot Int., 35(4), 790-803. doi: 10.1093/heapro/daz067
Marsh, P., Courtney-Pratt, H. & Campbell, M. (2018). The landscape of dementia inclusivity. Health Place, 52, 174-179. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.05.013
Mita, S., Hosokawa, M. & Hayashi, T. (2021). The effect of reproducing two-dimensional photographs of flower arrangements in three dimensions on prefrontal blood flow in elderly patients with dementia. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Mmako, N.J., Courtney-Pratt, H. & Marsh, P. (2020). Green spaces, dementia and a meaningful life in the community: A mixed studies review. Health Place, 63, 102344. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102344
Mochizuki-Kawai, H, Sakaba, T. & Yamakawa, Y. (2021). Indoor horticultural therapy for older adults living in a nursing home: Bedside structured floral arrangement program. Geriatr Gerontol Int., 21(6), 538-539. doi: 10.1111/ggi.14155
Monateclaro, C. (2022). Adapting horticultural therapy as fall prevention among community-dwelling older adults. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 32(1), 1-12.
Motealleh, P., Moyle, W., Jones, C. & Dupre, K. (2022). The impact of a dementia-friendly garden design on people with dementia in a residential aged care facility: A case study. HERD: Health Environments Research & Design Journal, 15(2), 196-218.
Müller, B., Kropp, P., Cardona, M.I., Michalowsky, B., van den Berg, N., Teipel, S., Hoffmann, W. & Thyrian, JR. (2021). Types of leisure time physical activities (LTPA) of community-dwelling persons who have been screened positive for dementia. BMC Geriatr., 21(1), 270. doi: 10.1186/s12877-021-02201-1
Murroni, V., Cavalli, R., Basso, A., Borella, E., Meneghetti, C., Melendugno, A. & Pazzaglia, F. (2021). Effectiveness of therapeutic gardens for people with dementia: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(18), 9595. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18189595
Ng, L., Oliver, E. & Laver, K. (2022). Beyond garden design: A review of outdoor occupation in hospital and residential care settings for people with dementia. Aust Occup Ther J., 30. doi: 10.1111/1440-1630
Nicholas, S.O., Giang, A.T. & Yap, P.L.K. (2019). The effectiveness of horticultural therapy on older adults: A systematic review. J Am Med Dir Association, 20(10), 1351.e1-1351.e11. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2019.06.021
Noone, S., Innes, A., Kelly, F. & Mayers, A. (2017). 'The nourishing soil of the soul': The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia. Dementia (London), 16(7), 897-910. doi: 10.1177/1471301215623889
Noone, S. & Jenkins, N. (2018). Digging for dementia: Exploring the experience of community gardening from the perspectives of people with dementia. Aging Mental Health, 22(7), 881-888. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1393793
Ogura, A., Izawa, K.P., Tawa, H., Kureha, F., Wada, M., Harada, N., Ikeda, Y., Kimura, K., Kondo, N., Kanai, M., Kubo, I., Yoshikawa, R. & Matsuda, Y. (2022). Older phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation patients engaged in gardening maintained physical function during the COVID-19 pandemic. Heart Vessels, 37(1), 77-82. doi: 10.1007/s00380-021-01892-1
Okamura, T., Ura, C., Taga, T., Yanagisawa, C., Yamazaki, S. & Shimmei, M. (2021). Green care farms in urban settings as a new paradigm for dementia care. Psychogeriatrics, 21(5), 852-853. doi: 10.1111/psyg.12748
Park, SA., Lee, AY., Park, HG. & Lee, WL. (2019). Benefits of gardening activities for cognitive function according to measurement of brain nerve growth factor levels. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 16(5), 760. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16050760.
Park, SA., Kim, SO. & Pyun, SB. (2021). Improved cognitive ability and emotional condition measured using electroencephalography in elderly during horticultural activities. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Park, S.A., Son, S.Y., Lee, A.Y., Park, H.G., Lee, W.L. & Lee, C.H. (2020). Metabolite profiling revealed that a gardening activity program improves cognitive ability correlated with BDNF levels and serotonin metabolism in the elderly. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(2), 541. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17020541
Quan, N., Lohman, M., Resciniti, N. & Friedman, D. (2020). A systematic review of interventions for loneliness among older adults living in long-term care facilities. Aging & Mental Health 24 (12):1945-1955.
Sia, A. & Diehl, L. (2020). Nature-based activities for older adults: A case study in Singapore. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 30(1).
Sia, A., Kheng, S., Ng, T. Maxel, K.Ng, BS, Chan, Y.Ch., Tan, C, Rawtaer, I., Feng, L., Mahendran, R., Kua, E.H. & HO, R.C.M. (2018). The effect of therapeutic horticulture on the psychological wellbeing of elderly in Singapore: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(1).
Scott, T.L., Jao, Y.L., Tulloch, K., Yates, E., Kenward, O. & Pachana, N.A. (2022). Well-being benefits of horticulture-based activities for community dwelling people with dementia: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(17), 10523. doi: 10.3390/ijerph191710523
Scott, T.L., Masser, B.M. & Pachana, N.A. (2020). Positive aging benefits of home and community gardening activities: Older adults report enhanced self-esteem, productive endeavors, social engagement and exercise. SAGE Open Medicine, 22, 8. doi: 10.1177/2050312120901732
Smith-Carrier, TA., Béres, L., Johnson, K., Blake, C. & Howard, J. (2021). Digging into the experiences of therapeutic gardening for people with dementia: An interpretative phenomenological analysis. Dementia (London), 20(1), 130-147. doi: 10.1177/1471301219869121.
K. Strout, J. Jemison, L. O'Brien, et al. (2017). GROW: Green Organic Vegetable Gardens to Promote Older Adult Wellness: A feasibility study. J Community Health Nurs, 34 (3) (2017), 115-125
Tu, P.C., Cheng, W.C., Hou, P.C. & Chang, Y.S. (2020). Effects of types of horticultural activity on the physical and mental state of elderly individuals. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(14), 5225. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17145225
Wang, D. & MacMillan, T. (2013). The benefits of gardening for older adults: A systematic review of the literature. Activities, Adaptation & Aging, 37, 1533-81. doi: 10.1080/01924788.2013.784942
Whear, R., Coon, J.T., Bethel, A., Abbott, R., Stein, K. & Garside, R. (2014). What is the impact of using outdoor spaces such as gardens on the physical and mental well-being of those with dementia? A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative evidence. J Am Med Dir Assoc., 15(10), 697-705. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2014.05.013
P.C. White, J. Wyatt, G. Chalfont, et al. (2018). Exposure to nature gardens has time-dependent associations with mood improvements for people with mid- and late-stage dementia. Innovative practice Dementia (London), 17(5), 627-634.
Yang, Y., Kwan, R.Y.C., Zhai, H.M., Xiong, Y., Zhao, T., Fang, K.L. & Zhang, H.Q. (2022). Effect of horticultural therapy on apathy in nursing home residents with dementia: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Aging Ment Health, 26(4), 745-753. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2021.1907304
Yat-Fan, N., Kit-Ming. J. & Fung, CYY. (2021). The effects of horticultural therapy on elderly with chronic pain in Hong Kong. AHTA Magazine, 49(2), 15-16.
Yeo, N.L., Elliott, L.R., Bethel, A., White, M.P, Dean, S.G. & Garside, R. (2020). Indoor nature interventions for health and wellbeing of older adults in residential settings: A systematic review. The Gerontologist, 60(3), e184–e199, https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnz019
Yokota, Y. & Toyoda, M. (2021). Application of horticultural therapist’s expertise to lectures for dementia prevention: A case report of a dementia prevention course held by the local women’s group in Japan. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Zeisel, J., Reisberg, B., Whitehouse, P., Woods, R. & Verheul, A. (2016). Ecopsychosocial interventions in cognitive decline and dementia: a new terminology and a new paradigm. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen., 31, 502–7. doi:10.1177/1533317516650806
Zhao, Y., Liu, Y. & Wang, Z. (2020). Effectiveness of horticultural therapy in people with dementia: A quantitative systematic review. J Clin Nurs. doi: 10.1111/jocn.15204
Ascencio, J., Wojtaszek, D. & Davalos, D. (2019). Horticultural therapy support group for older adult caregivers: Examining intervention effectiveness using psychometrically validated measures. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(2).
Besser, L. (2021). Green space exposure and brain health measures related to Alzheimer’s disease: A rapid review. BMJ Open, 11(5), e043456. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-043456
Blake, M. & Mitchell, G. (2016). Horticultural therapy in dementia care: A literature review. Nurs Stand., 30(21), 41-7. doi: 10.7748/ns.30.21.41.s44
Bosia, D., Montacchini, E., Savio, L. & Tedesco, S. (2020). Aging-people accessibility to urban garden: A case study in Turin. In International Conference on Applied Human Factors and Ergonomics, 327-334. Springer, Cham.
Bourdon, E. & Belmin, J. (2021). Enriched gardens improve cognition and independence of nursing home residents with dementia: A pilot controlled trial. Alzheimers Res Ther., 13(1), 116. doi: 10.1186/s13195-021-00849-w
Cassidy, P. (2019). The Portland Memory Garden: Collaboration in action. AHTA Magazine, 47(2), 4-5.
Chan, HY., Ho, RC., Mahendran, R., Ng, KS., Tam, WW., Rawtaer, I., Tan, CH., Larbi, A., Feng, L., Sia, A., Ng, MK. Gan, GL. & Kua, EH. (2017). Effects of horticultural therapy on elderly' health: Protocol of a randomized controlled trial. BMC Geriatr., 17(1), 192. doi: 10.1186/s12877-017-0588
Chu, HY., Chan, HS. & Chen, MF. (2021). Effects of horticultural activities on attitudes toward aging, sense of hope and hand-eye coordination in older adults in residential care facilities. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(12), 6555. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18126555
D’Cunha, NM., Isbel, S., McKune, AJ., Kellett, J. & Naumovski, N. (2020). Activities outside of the care setting for people with dementia: A systematic review. BMJ Open, 10(10), e040753. doi: a10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040753.
de Boer, B., Buist, Y., de Bruin, S.R., Backhaus, R. & Verbeek, H. (2021). Working at green care farms and other innovative small-scale long-term dementia care facilities requires different competencies of care staff. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(20), 10747. doi: 10.3390/ijerph182010747
de Bruin, S.R., Pedersen, I., Eriksen, S., Hassink, J., Vaandrager, L. & Patil, G.G. (2020). Care farming for people with dementia; What can healthcare leaders learn from this innovative care concept? J Healthc Leadersh., 12, 11-18. doi: 10.2147/JHL.S202988
Detweiler, MB., Sharma, T., Detweiler, JG., Murphy, PF., Lane, S., Carman, J., Chudhary, AS., Halling, MH. & Kim, KY. (2012). What is the evidence to support the use of therapeutic gardens for the elderly? Psychiatry Investig., 9(2), 100-10.
De Rui, M., Toffanello, ED., Veronese, N., Zambon, S., Bolzetta, F., Sartori, L., Musacchio, E., Corti, MC., Baggio, G., Crepaldi, G., Perissinotto, E., Manzato, E. & Sergi, G. (2014). Vitamin D deficiency and leisure time activities in the elderly: Are all pastimes the same? PLoS One, 9(4), e94805. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094805
Detweiler, D., Murphy, P.F., Myers, L.C., et al. (2008). Does a wander garden influence inappropriate behaviors in dementia residents? American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 23(1), 31-45. doi: 10.1177/1533317507309799
Fielder, H. & Marsh, P. (2021). 'I used to be a gardener': Connecting aged care residents to gardening and to each other through communal garden sites. Australas J Ageing, 40(1), e29-e36. doi: 10.1111/ajag.12841
Freeman, S., Banner, D., Labron, M., Betkus, G., Wood, T., Branco, E. & Skinner, K. (2022). "I see beauty, I see art, I see design, I see love." Findings from a resident-driven, co-designed gardening program in a long-term care facility. Health Promot Chronic Dis Prev Can., 42(7), 288-300. doi: 10.24095/hpcdp.42.7.03
Gonzalez, M.T. & Kirkevold, M. (2014). Benefits of sensory garden and horticultural activities in dementia care: A modified scoping review. J Clin Nurs., 23(19-20), 2698-715. doi: 10.1111/jocn.12388
Goto, S., Shen, X., Sun, M., Hamano, Y. & Herrup, K. (2018). The positive effects of viewing gardens for persons with dementia. J Alzheimers Dis., 66, 1705–20. doi: 10.3233/JAD-170510
Hall, J., Mitchell, G., Webber, C. & Johnson, K. (2018). Effect of horticultural therapy on wellbeing among dementia day care programme participants: A mixed-methods study (Innovative Practice). Dementia, (London) 17(5), 611-620. doi: 10.1177/1471301216643847
Han, AR., Park, SA. & Ahn, BE. (2018). Reduced stress and improved physical functional ability in elderly with mental health problems following a horticultural therapy program. Complement Ther Med., 38, 19-23. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.03.011
Hassink, J., Vaandrager, L., Buist, Y. & de Bruin, S. (2019). Characteristics and challenges for the development of nature-based adult day services in urban areas for people with dementia and their family caregivers. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 16(8), 1337. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16081337
Jackson, S. (2005). The potential on the doorstep: The importance of gardening in the psychological well-being of older people. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 16, 28–37.
Jarrott, S.E. & Gigliotti, C.M. (2010). Comparing responses to horticulture-based and traditional activities in dementia care programs. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 25(8), 657-665. doi: 10.1177/1533317510385810
Kikukawa, H. & Toyoda, M. (2021). Gardening programs based on METs and HR values are needed to prevent dementia in elderly people requiring support. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Kim, SO., Pyun, SB. & Park, SA. (2021b) Improved cognitive function and emotional condition measured using electroencephalography in the elderly during horticultural activities. HortScience, 1(aop), 1-10.
Kim, Y.H., Park, C.S., Bae, H.O., Lim, E.J., Kang, K.H., Lee, E.S., ... & Huh, M.R. (2020). Horticultural therapy programs enhancing quality of life and reducing depression and burden for caregivers of elderly with dementia. Journal of People Plants Environment, 23, 305-320.
Kunimi, M. (2013). The effect of horticultural activity on the cognitive performance of healthy elderly. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 23(2).
Lee, Y. & Kim, S. (2008). Effects of indoor gardening on sleep, agitation, and cognition in dementia patients—a pilot study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry, 23(5), 485-9. doi: 10.1002/gps.1920
Levinger, P., Cerin, E., Milner, C &, Hill, K.D. (2022). Older people and nature: The benefits of outdoors, parks and nature in ligh of COVID-19 and beyond- where to from here? Int J Environ Health Res., 32(6), 1329-1336. doi: 10.1080/09603123.2021.1879739
Liao, M.L., Shih, F.L., Lin, F.E., Chen, Y.J. & Tang, Y.T. (2021). Design ideas of a healing garden for improving the health of aging people with intellectual disability. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1313: International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: Past, Present and Future.
Lin, Y., Lin, R., Liu, W. & Wu, W. (2022). Effectiveness of horticultural therapy on physical functioning and psychological health outcomes for older adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 31(15-16), 2087-2099.
Lo, S.K.L., Lam, W.Y.Y., Kwan, R.Y.C., Tse, M..M.Y., Lau, J.K.H. & Lai C.K.Y. (2019). Effects of horticultural therapy: Perspectives of frail and pre-frail older nursing home residents. Nurs Open., 6(3), 1230-1236. doi: 10.1002/nop2.323
Lu, L., Lan, S., Hsieh, Y., Yen, Y., Chen, J. & Lan, S. (2019). Horticultural therapy in patients with dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 35, 1-11.
Magnussen, I.L., Alteren, J. & Bondas, T. (2021). "Human flourishing with dignity": A meta-ethnography of the meaning of gardens for elderly in nursing homes and residential care settings. Glob Qual Nurs Res., 8:23333936211035743. doi: 10.1177/23333936211035743
Makizako, H., Tsutsumimoto, K., Doi, T., Hotta, R., Nakakubo, S., Liu-Ambrose, T. & Shimada, H. (2015). Effects of exercise and horticultural intervention on the brain and mental health in older adults with depressive symptoms and memory problems: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial [UMIN000018547]. Trials. 16, 499. doi: 10.1186/s13063-015-1032-3
Malberg Dyg, P., Christensen, S. & Peterson, CJ. (2020). Community gardens and wellbeing amongst vulnerable populations: A thematic review. Health Promot Int., 35(4), 790-803. doi: 10.1093/heapro/daz067
Marsh, P., Courtney-Pratt, H. & Campbell, M. (2018). The landscape of dementia inclusivity. Health Place, 52, 174-179. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.05.013
Mita, S., Hosokawa, M. & Hayashi, T. (2021). The effect of reproducing two-dimensional photographs of flower arrangements in three dimensions on prefrontal blood flow in elderly patients with dementia. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Mmako, N.J., Courtney-Pratt, H. & Marsh, P. (2020). Green spaces, dementia and a meaningful life in the community: A mixed studies review. Health Place, 63, 102344. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102344
Mochizuki-Kawai, H, Sakaba, T. & Yamakawa, Y. (2021). Indoor horticultural therapy for older adults living in a nursing home: Bedside structured floral arrangement program. Geriatr Gerontol Int., 21(6), 538-539. doi: 10.1111/ggi.14155
Monateclaro, C. (2022). Adapting horticultural therapy as fall prevention among community-dwelling older adults. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 32(1), 1-12.
Motealleh, P., Moyle, W., Jones, C. & Dupre, K. (2022). The impact of a dementia-friendly garden design on people with dementia in a residential aged care facility: A case study. HERD: Health Environments Research & Design Journal, 15(2), 196-218.
Müller, B., Kropp, P., Cardona, M.I., Michalowsky, B., van den Berg, N., Teipel, S., Hoffmann, W. & Thyrian, JR. (2021). Types of leisure time physical activities (LTPA) of community-dwelling persons who have been screened positive for dementia. BMC Geriatr., 21(1), 270. doi: 10.1186/s12877-021-02201-1
Murroni, V., Cavalli, R., Basso, A., Borella, E., Meneghetti, C., Melendugno, A. & Pazzaglia, F. (2021). Effectiveness of therapeutic gardens for people with dementia: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(18), 9595. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18189595
Ng, L., Oliver, E. & Laver, K. (2022). Beyond garden design: A review of outdoor occupation in hospital and residential care settings for people with dementia. Aust Occup Ther J., 30. doi: 10.1111/1440-1630
Nicholas, S.O., Giang, A.T. & Yap, P.L.K. (2019). The effectiveness of horticultural therapy on older adults: A systematic review. J Am Med Dir Association, 20(10), 1351.e1-1351.e11. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2019.06.021
Noone, S., Innes, A., Kelly, F. & Mayers, A. (2017). 'The nourishing soil of the soul': The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia. Dementia (London), 16(7), 897-910. doi: 10.1177/1471301215623889
Noone, S. & Jenkins, N. (2018). Digging for dementia: Exploring the experience of community gardening from the perspectives of people with dementia. Aging Mental Health, 22(7), 881-888. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1393793
Ogura, A., Izawa, K.P., Tawa, H., Kureha, F., Wada, M., Harada, N., Ikeda, Y., Kimura, K., Kondo, N., Kanai, M., Kubo, I., Yoshikawa, R. & Matsuda, Y. (2022). Older phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation patients engaged in gardening maintained physical function during the COVID-19 pandemic. Heart Vessels, 37(1), 77-82. doi: 10.1007/s00380-021-01892-1
Okamura, T., Ura, C., Taga, T., Yanagisawa, C., Yamazaki, S. & Shimmei, M. (2021). Green care farms in urban settings as a new paradigm for dementia care. Psychogeriatrics, 21(5), 852-853. doi: 10.1111/psyg.12748
Park, SA., Lee, AY., Park, HG. & Lee, WL. (2019). Benefits of gardening activities for cognitive function according to measurement of brain nerve growth factor levels. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 16(5), 760. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16050760.
Park, SA., Kim, SO. & Pyun, SB. (2021). Improved cognitive ability and emotional condition measured using electroencephalography in elderly during horticultural activities. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Park, S.A., Son, S.Y., Lee, A.Y., Park, H.G., Lee, W.L. & Lee, C.H. (2020). Metabolite profiling revealed that a gardening activity program improves cognitive ability correlated with BDNF levels and serotonin metabolism in the elderly. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(2), 541. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17020541
Quan, N., Lohman, M., Resciniti, N. & Friedman, D. (2020). A systematic review of interventions for loneliness among older adults living in long-term care facilities. Aging & Mental Health 24 (12):1945-1955.
Sia, A. & Diehl, L. (2020). Nature-based activities for older adults: A case study in Singapore. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 30(1).
Sia, A., Kheng, S., Ng, T. Maxel, K.Ng, BS, Chan, Y.Ch., Tan, C, Rawtaer, I., Feng, L., Mahendran, R., Kua, E.H. & HO, R.C.M. (2018). The effect of therapeutic horticulture on the psychological wellbeing of elderly in Singapore: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(1).
Scott, T.L., Jao, Y.L., Tulloch, K., Yates, E., Kenward, O. & Pachana, N.A. (2022). Well-being benefits of horticulture-based activities for community dwelling people with dementia: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(17), 10523. doi: 10.3390/ijerph191710523
Scott, T.L., Masser, B.M. & Pachana, N.A. (2020). Positive aging benefits of home and community gardening activities: Older adults report enhanced self-esteem, productive endeavors, social engagement and exercise. SAGE Open Medicine, 22, 8. doi: 10.1177/2050312120901732
Smith-Carrier, TA., Béres, L., Johnson, K., Blake, C. & Howard, J. (2021). Digging into the experiences of therapeutic gardening for people with dementia: An interpretative phenomenological analysis. Dementia (London), 20(1), 130-147. doi: 10.1177/1471301219869121.
K. Strout, J. Jemison, L. O'Brien, et al. (2017). GROW: Green Organic Vegetable Gardens to Promote Older Adult Wellness: A feasibility study. J Community Health Nurs, 34 (3) (2017), 115-125
Tu, P.C., Cheng, W.C., Hou, P.C. & Chang, Y.S. (2020). Effects of types of horticultural activity on the physical and mental state of elderly individuals. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(14), 5225. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17145225
Wang, D. & MacMillan, T. (2013). The benefits of gardening for older adults: A systematic review of the literature. Activities, Adaptation & Aging, 37, 1533-81. doi: 10.1080/01924788.2013.784942
Whear, R., Coon, J.T., Bethel, A., Abbott, R., Stein, K. & Garside, R. (2014). What is the impact of using outdoor spaces such as gardens on the physical and mental well-being of those with dementia? A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative evidence. J Am Med Dir Assoc., 15(10), 697-705. doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2014.05.013
P.C. White, J. Wyatt, G. Chalfont, et al. (2018). Exposure to nature gardens has time-dependent associations with mood improvements for people with mid- and late-stage dementia. Innovative practice Dementia (London), 17(5), 627-634.
Yang, Y., Kwan, R.Y.C., Zhai, H.M., Xiong, Y., Zhao, T., Fang, K.L. & Zhang, H.Q. (2022). Effect of horticultural therapy on apathy in nursing home residents with dementia: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Aging Ment Health, 26(4), 745-753. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2021.1907304
Yat-Fan, N., Kit-Ming. J. & Fung, CYY. (2021). The effects of horticultural therapy on elderly with chronic pain in Hong Kong. AHTA Magazine, 49(2), 15-16.
Yeo, N.L., Elliott, L.R., Bethel, A., White, M.P, Dean, S.G. & Garside, R. (2020). Indoor nature interventions for health and wellbeing of older adults in residential settings: A systematic review. The Gerontologist, 60(3), e184–e199, https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnz019
Yokota, Y. & Toyoda, M. (2021). Application of horticultural therapist’s expertise to lectures for dementia prevention: A case report of a dementia prevention course held by the local women’s group in Japan. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Zeisel, J., Reisberg, B., Whitehouse, P., Woods, R. & Verheul, A. (2016). Ecopsychosocial interventions in cognitive decline and dementia: a new terminology and a new paradigm. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen., 31, 502–7. doi:10.1177/1533317516650806
Zhao, Y., Liu, Y. & Wang, Z. (2020). Effectiveness of horticultural therapy in people with dementia: A quantitative systematic review. J Clin Nurs. doi: 10.1111/jocn.15204
EXAMPLES OF SENIOR CARE/DEMENTIA CARE
Banfield Pavilion with rooftop garden offers long term care for seniors with views of nature, access to outdoors, programs.
Jacqueline Fiske Healing Garden in Jupiter, Fl. fosters the physical, mental & spiritual restoration of patients, many seniors, distracting them from the medical setting.
The Back Porch Garden at Medford Leas used by assisted living and skilled nursing residents at this senior’s facility allows for concerts, bbqs, classes & special events in the rooftop garden.
University of California Cooperative Extension senior gardening program demonstrates how these programs can contribute to healthy lifestyles and habits.
LeadingAge Florida and Eldergrow implement therapeutic horticulture programs in nursing homes, a business model delivering plant-based services to seniors.
Jacqueline Fiske Healing Garden in Jupiter, Fl. fosters the physical, mental & spiritual restoration of patients, many seniors, distracting them from the medical setting.
The Back Porch Garden at Medford Leas used by assisted living and skilled nursing residents at this senior’s facility allows for concerts, bbqs, classes & special events in the rooftop garden.
University of California Cooperative Extension senior gardening program demonstrates how these programs can contribute to healthy lifestyles and habits.
LeadingAge Florida and Eldergrow implement therapeutic horticulture programs in nursing homes, a business model delivering plant-based services to seniors.
VIDEOS & WEBINARS ON SENIOR CARE/DEMENTIA CARE
Rodiek, S. (2009). Access to nature for older adults [3 DVDs – 93 minutes]. Center for Health Systems & Design.
RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
To be updated
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming & Siang Yu Tham Dec 2021; revised in Nov 2022 by Lesley Fleming, Siang Tham & Bree Stark
CORRECTIONS POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Horticulture for health initiatives for incarcerated individuals include gardening & vocational horticulture programs, restorative nature activities, plant production/ecology programs, beekeeping, delivery of horticulture certificate courses, and garden programs with a food security focus including food donations to local community partners. These programs provide physiological benefits including relief from stress (cortisol production), physical activity, mood regulation, improved brain functioning, as well as development of positive leisure, vocational skills & psychological benefits.
One noticeable trend is the farm to prison cafeteria model seen at facilities for male, female & youth offenders though these programs do not appear to be widespread in the U.S. New approaches to using horticulture & green spaces for corrections populations are emerging from the U.K. (Hodges Snyder et al, 2016; Baybutt et al, 2019; Devine Wright et al, 2019). Research is examining the efficacy of horticulture, horticulture training, inmate behavior and recidivism. More recent studies have included incarcerated juveniles, with numerous online videos documenting these food gardens at detention centers, and where many involve master gardener volunteers. College students seem interested in this topic, with a good number of theses on this topic, available online (Larson, 2022; Jenkins, 2016; Benham, 2014; Choi, 2020).
Horticulture for health initiatives for incarcerated individuals include gardening & vocational horticulture programs, restorative nature activities, plant production/ecology programs, beekeeping, delivery of horticulture certificate courses, and garden programs with a food security focus including food donations to local community partners. These programs provide physiological benefits including relief from stress (cortisol production), physical activity, mood regulation, improved brain functioning, as well as development of positive leisure, vocational skills & psychological benefits.
One noticeable trend is the farm to prison cafeteria model seen at facilities for male, female & youth offenders though these programs do not appear to be widespread in the U.S. New approaches to using horticulture & green spaces for corrections populations are emerging from the U.K. (Hodges Snyder et al, 2016; Baybutt et al, 2019; Devine Wright et al, 2019). Research is examining the efficacy of horticulture, horticulture training, inmate behavior and recidivism. More recent studies have included incarcerated juveniles, with numerous online videos documenting these food gardens at detention centers, and where many involve master gardener volunteers. College students seem interested in this topic, with a good number of theses on this topic, available online (Larson, 2022; Jenkins, 2016; Benham, 2014; Choi, 2020).
Key organizations
BOOKS, JOURNALS & EPUBLICATIONS ON corrections populations and programs
Hodges Snyder, E., McIvor, K. & Brown, S. (Eds.). (2016). Sowing Seeds in the City. Springer.
International Journal of Prisoner Health
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation
LeRoy, CJ., Trivett, JR., Bush, K., Vanneste, J. & Pacholke, D. (2013). The Sustainability in Prisons
Project Handbook: Protocols for the SPP network, 1st edn. Gorham Publishing.
Smoyer, A.B. & Kjaer Minke, L. (2016). Food Systems in Correctional Settings: A Literature Review and
Case Study. World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe.
Sustainability in Prisons Project (2017). Beekeeping in Prisons Program Guide.
International Journal of Prisoner Health
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation
LeRoy, CJ., Trivett, JR., Bush, K., Vanneste, J. & Pacholke, D. (2013). The Sustainability in Prisons
Project Handbook: Protocols for the SPP network, 1st edn. Gorham Publishing.
Smoyer, A.B. & Kjaer Minke, L. (2016). Food Systems in Correctional Settings: A Literature Review and
Case Study. World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe.
Sustainability in Prisons Project (2017). Beekeeping in Prisons Program Guide.
RESEARCH & ARTICLES ON CORRECTIONS POPULATIONS AND PROGRAMS
Recently published selected research & articles:
Andrews, B., & Baron, J. (2016). Blossoming behind bars: Prison garden programs bring vocational and therapeutic benefits to inmates. Arrive Magazine. Manifest LLC.
Ascencio, J. (2018). Offenders, work, and rehabilitation: Horticultural therapy as a social cognitive career theory intervention for offenders. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(1), 21-28.
Baybutt, M., Dooris, M. & Farrier, A. (2019). Growing health in UK prison settings. Health Promot Int., 34(4), 792-802. doi: 10.1093/heapro/day037
Baybutt, M. & Chemlal, K. (2016). Health-promoting prisons: Theory to practice. Glob Health Promot., 23(1 Suppl), 66-74. doi: 10.1177/1757975915614182
Becker Green, J. & Trivett, JR. (2017). A day for pollinators in prisons. Sustainability in Prisons Project.
Benham, L. (2014). From utility to significance: Exploring ecological connection, ethics and personal transformation through a gardening and environmental literacy program within San Quentin Prison. Graduate research.
Benoit, E. (2019). Rethinking the landscape of incarceration. Sustainability in Prisons Project.
Bettmann, J.E., Prince, K.C., Ganesh, K., Rugo, K.F., Bryan, A.O., Bryan, C.J., Rozek, D.C. & Leifker, F.R. (2021). The effect of time outdoors on veterans receiving treatment for PTSD. J Clin Psychol., 77(9), 2041-2056. doi: 10.1002/jclp.23139
Bulger, M. (2017). Six U.S. correctional facilities with ‘farm to prison’ local food sourcing programs.
Chennault, C. & Sbicca, J. (2022). Prison agriculture in the United States: Racial capitalism and the disciplinary matrix of exploitation and rehabilitation. Agric Hum Values. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10460-022-10346-x
Choi, K.Y. (2020). Prisons, sustainability and resistance: Exploring the benefits of therapeutic horticulture programs and animal programs in carceral settings. Thesis: Monash University.
Cochrane, R. (2019). Passionate partners transform incarcerated women into urban farmers. AHTA Magazine, 47(3), 11.
Devine-Wright, H., Baybutt, M. & Meek. R. (2019). Producing food in English and Welsh prisons. Appetite, 143, 104433. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2019.104433
Evergreen State College and Washington State Department of Corrections (2020). Beekeeping & pollinator programs in prisons. Sustainability in Prisons Project.
Farrier, A., Baybutt, M. & Dooris, M. (2019). Mental health and wellbeing benefits from a prisons horticultural programme. Int J Prison Health., 15(1), 91-104. doi: 10.1108/IJPH-11-2017-0055
Fleming, L. (2020). Beekeeping programs at correctional facilities. Digging In, 6(3), 17.
Hardin-Fanning, F., Adegboyega, A.O. & Rayens, M.K. (2018). Adolescents' perceptions of a gardening activity at a juvenile justice center. J Holist Nurs., 36(2), 170-178. doi: 10.1177/0898010117707865
Hart, F.B. & Reisner, M. (2021). More than just gardening program – using horticultural therapy and mindfulness practice to promote health and connection for incarcerated individuals and those preparing to re-enter their communities. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Hazelett, E. (2022). Greening the cage: Exploitation and resistance in the (un)sustainable prison garden. Antipode. https://doi.org/10.1111/anti.12893
Hecker, I. & Kuehn, D. (2019). Apprenticeship and the justice system. Urban Institute.
Hoffman, AJ. (2020). Going ‘green’ from gray: Providing opportunities of community development and sustainability within a correctional facilities program. J Prev Interv Community., 48(3), 272-280. doi: 10.1080/10852352.2019.1625605
Hoffman, A.J. (2020). Community service activities reducing hate crimes and extremism: A "green intervention" approach. J Prev Interv Community., 48(3), 207-209. doi: 10.1080/10852352.2019.1625606
Holmes, M. & Waliczek, T.M. (2019). The effect of horticultural community service programs on recidivism. HortTechnology, 29(4). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04282-19
Jauk, D., Gill, B., Caruana, C. & Everhardt, S. (2022). Systemic inequality, sustainability, and COVID-19 in US prisons: A sociological exploration of women’s prison gardens in pandemic times. Research in Political Sociology, 29. In Aladuwaka, Wejnert & Alagan (Eds.) Systemic Inequality, Sustainability and COVID-19. Emerald Publishing Ltd. pp. 185-209.
Jauk-Ajamie, D., Everhardt, S., Caruana, C. L. & Gill, B. (2022). Bourdieu in the women’s prison garden: Findings from two clinical sociological garden interventions in the carceral field. Journal of Applied Social Science, 19367244221129185.
Jenkins, R. (2016). Landscaping in lockup: The effects of gardening programs on prison inmates. Graduate thesis: Arcadia University.
Johnson, L., Gutridge, K., Parkes, J., Roy, A. & Plugge, E. (2021). Scoping review of mental health in prisons through the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open, 11(5), e046547. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046547
Khatib, D. & Krasny, M.E. (2015). Greening programs to facilitate prisoner reentry.
Kim, H.K. & Kim, H.H. (2017). Effects of horticultural therapy programs on depression and self-esteem in released convicts. The Korean Society for People Plants Environments, 20(2), 143-148.
Krus, HM. (2019). Program example: Rikers Island Jail, New York. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Larson, A. (2022). Horticultural therapy in prison populations. Thesis: Sacred Heart University.
Lee, A.Y., Kim, S.Y., Kwon, H.J. & Park, S.A. (2021). Horticultural therapy program for mental health of prisoners: Case report. Integr Med Res., 10(2), 100495. doi: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100495
Li, H., Zhang, X., You, C., Chen, X., Cao Y. & Zhang, G. (2021). Can viewing nature through windows improve isolated living? A pathway analysis on Chinese male prisoners during the COVID-19 epidemic. Front Psychiatry., 12, 720722. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.720722
McCray, R. (2015). Beekeping gives prisoners a sweeter future. Takepart.
Park, K.H., Kim, S.Y. & Park, S.A. (2022). Efficacy of a horticultural therapy program designed for emotional stability and career exploration among adolescents in juvenile detention centers. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 19(14), 8812. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19148812
Petersen, T. (2022). Teaching gardening to grow incarcerated youths’ mental and physical health. myMotherLode.com.
Phillips, M. (n.d.). Garden behind the fence.
Reddon, J.R. & Durante, S.B. (2019). Prisoner exposure to nature: Benefits for wellbeing and citizenship. Med Hypotheses., 123, 13-18. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.12.003
Rutt, D. (2016). Prison horticulture. In Waliczek & Zajicek (Eds.) Urban Horticulture. CRC Press.
Saiers, J. (209). Horticultural therapy grounded in wellness models. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Soderlund, J., Newman, P. et al. (2017). Improving mental health in prisons through biophilic design. The Prison Journal, 97(6). https://doi.org/10.1177/0032885517734516
Spark, A. Dinour, L.M. & Obenchain, J. (2015). Prison farms and food banks. In Nutrition in Public Health: Principles, Policies, and Practice (2nd edition). CRC Press.
Sustainability in Prisons Project. (2021). Restorative nature.
Thigpen, M., Beauclair, T. & Carroll, S. (2011). The greening of corrections: Creating a sustainable system. U.S. Department of Justice.
Timler, K., Brown, H. & Varcoe, C. (2019) Growing connection beyond prison walls: How a prison garden fosters rehabilitation and healing for incarcerated men. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 58, 5, 444-463, DOI: 10.1080/10509674.2019.1615598
Timler, K., Varcoe, C., & Brown, H. (22019). Growing beyond nutrition: How a prison garden program highlights the potential of shifting from food security to food sovereignty for indigenous peoples. International Journal of Indigenous Health, 14(2), 95-114.
Toews, B., Wagenfeld, A. & Stevens, J. (2018). Impact of a nature-based intervention on incarcerated women. Int J Prison Health., 14(4), 232-243. doi: 10.1108/IJPH-12-2017-0065
Trivett, J.R., Pinderhughes, R., Bush, K., Caughman, L. & LeRoy, C.J. (2017). Sustainability education in prisons: Transforming lives, transforming the world. In Worldwatch Institute EarthEd. State of the World. Island Press. https://doi.org/10.5822/978-1-61091-843-5_19
Watkins, C. (2017). Industrialized bodies: Women, food, and environmental justice in the criminal justice system. In Nocella, Ducre & Lupinacci (Eds.) Addressing Environmental and Food Justice toward Dismantling the School-to-Prison Pipeline. Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-50822-5_8
Weber, S.R., Hayes, M.P., Webb, T. & LeRoy, C.J. (2015). Environmental education in prison: A comparison of teaching methods and their influence on inmate attitudes and knowledge of environmental topics. Interdisciplinar Environmental Review, 16(2-4), 267-284. https://doi.org/10.1504/IER.2015.071026
- (2015). Growing Washington’s prison landscapes A design & construction guidebook.
Andrews, B., & Baron, J. (2016). Blossoming behind bars: Prison garden programs bring vocational and therapeutic benefits to inmates. Arrive Magazine. Manifest LLC.
Ascencio, J. (2018). Offenders, work, and rehabilitation: Horticultural therapy as a social cognitive career theory intervention for offenders. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(1), 21-28.
Baybutt, M., Dooris, M. & Farrier, A. (2019). Growing health in UK prison settings. Health Promot Int., 34(4), 792-802. doi: 10.1093/heapro/day037
Baybutt, M. & Chemlal, K. (2016). Health-promoting prisons: Theory to practice. Glob Health Promot., 23(1 Suppl), 66-74. doi: 10.1177/1757975915614182
Becker Green, J. & Trivett, JR. (2017). A day for pollinators in prisons. Sustainability in Prisons Project.
Benham, L. (2014). From utility to significance: Exploring ecological connection, ethics and personal transformation through a gardening and environmental literacy program within San Quentin Prison. Graduate research.
Benoit, E. (2019). Rethinking the landscape of incarceration. Sustainability in Prisons Project.
Bettmann, J.E., Prince, K.C., Ganesh, K., Rugo, K.F., Bryan, A.O., Bryan, C.J., Rozek, D.C. & Leifker, F.R. (2021). The effect of time outdoors on veterans receiving treatment for PTSD. J Clin Psychol., 77(9), 2041-2056. doi: 10.1002/jclp.23139
Bulger, M. (2017). Six U.S. correctional facilities with ‘farm to prison’ local food sourcing programs.
Chennault, C. & Sbicca, J. (2022). Prison agriculture in the United States: Racial capitalism and the disciplinary matrix of exploitation and rehabilitation. Agric Hum Values. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10460-022-10346-x
Choi, K.Y. (2020). Prisons, sustainability and resistance: Exploring the benefits of therapeutic horticulture programs and animal programs in carceral settings. Thesis: Monash University.
Cochrane, R. (2019). Passionate partners transform incarcerated women into urban farmers. AHTA Magazine, 47(3), 11.
Devine-Wright, H., Baybutt, M. & Meek. R. (2019). Producing food in English and Welsh prisons. Appetite, 143, 104433. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2019.104433
Evergreen State College and Washington State Department of Corrections (2020). Beekeeping & pollinator programs in prisons. Sustainability in Prisons Project.
Farrier, A., Baybutt, M. & Dooris, M. (2019). Mental health and wellbeing benefits from a prisons horticultural programme. Int J Prison Health., 15(1), 91-104. doi: 10.1108/IJPH-11-2017-0055
Fleming, L. (2020). Beekeeping programs at correctional facilities. Digging In, 6(3), 17.
Hardin-Fanning, F., Adegboyega, A.O. & Rayens, M.K. (2018). Adolescents' perceptions of a gardening activity at a juvenile justice center. J Holist Nurs., 36(2), 170-178. doi: 10.1177/0898010117707865
Hart, F.B. & Reisner, M. (2021). More than just gardening program – using horticultural therapy and mindfulness practice to promote health and connection for incarcerated individuals and those preparing to re-enter their communities. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Hazelett, E. (2022). Greening the cage: Exploitation and resistance in the (un)sustainable prison garden. Antipode. https://doi.org/10.1111/anti.12893
Hecker, I. & Kuehn, D. (2019). Apprenticeship and the justice system. Urban Institute.
Hoffman, AJ. (2020). Going ‘green’ from gray: Providing opportunities of community development and sustainability within a correctional facilities program. J Prev Interv Community., 48(3), 272-280. doi: 10.1080/10852352.2019.1625605
Hoffman, A.J. (2020). Community service activities reducing hate crimes and extremism: A "green intervention" approach. J Prev Interv Community., 48(3), 207-209. doi: 10.1080/10852352.2019.1625606
Holmes, M. & Waliczek, T.M. (2019). The effect of horticultural community service programs on recidivism. HortTechnology, 29(4). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04282-19
Jauk, D., Gill, B., Caruana, C. & Everhardt, S. (2022). Systemic inequality, sustainability, and COVID-19 in US prisons: A sociological exploration of women’s prison gardens in pandemic times. Research in Political Sociology, 29. In Aladuwaka, Wejnert & Alagan (Eds.) Systemic Inequality, Sustainability and COVID-19. Emerald Publishing Ltd. pp. 185-209.
Jauk-Ajamie, D., Everhardt, S., Caruana, C. L. & Gill, B. (2022). Bourdieu in the women’s prison garden: Findings from two clinical sociological garden interventions in the carceral field. Journal of Applied Social Science, 19367244221129185.
Jenkins, R. (2016). Landscaping in lockup: The effects of gardening programs on prison inmates. Graduate thesis: Arcadia University.
Johnson, L., Gutridge, K., Parkes, J., Roy, A. & Plugge, E. (2021). Scoping review of mental health in prisons through the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open, 11(5), e046547. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046547
Khatib, D. & Krasny, M.E. (2015). Greening programs to facilitate prisoner reentry.
Kim, H.K. & Kim, H.H. (2017). Effects of horticultural therapy programs on depression and self-esteem in released convicts. The Korean Society for People Plants Environments, 20(2), 143-148.
Krus, HM. (2019). Program example: Rikers Island Jail, New York. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Larson, A. (2022). Horticultural therapy in prison populations. Thesis: Sacred Heart University.
Lee, A.Y., Kim, S.Y., Kwon, H.J. & Park, S.A. (2021). Horticultural therapy program for mental health of prisoners: Case report. Integr Med Res., 10(2), 100495. doi: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100495
Li, H., Zhang, X., You, C., Chen, X., Cao Y. & Zhang, G. (2021). Can viewing nature through windows improve isolated living? A pathway analysis on Chinese male prisoners during the COVID-19 epidemic. Front Psychiatry., 12, 720722. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.720722
McCray, R. (2015). Beekeping gives prisoners a sweeter future. Takepart.
Park, K.H., Kim, S.Y. & Park, S.A. (2022). Efficacy of a horticultural therapy program designed for emotional stability and career exploration among adolescents in juvenile detention centers. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 19(14), 8812. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19148812
Petersen, T. (2022). Teaching gardening to grow incarcerated youths’ mental and physical health. myMotherLode.com.
Phillips, M. (n.d.). Garden behind the fence.
Reddon, J.R. & Durante, S.B. (2019). Prisoner exposure to nature: Benefits for wellbeing and citizenship. Med Hypotheses., 123, 13-18. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.12.003
Rutt, D. (2016). Prison horticulture. In Waliczek & Zajicek (Eds.) Urban Horticulture. CRC Press.
Saiers, J. (209). Horticultural therapy grounded in wellness models. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Soderlund, J., Newman, P. et al. (2017). Improving mental health in prisons through biophilic design. The Prison Journal, 97(6). https://doi.org/10.1177/0032885517734516
Spark, A. Dinour, L.M. & Obenchain, J. (2015). Prison farms and food banks. In Nutrition in Public Health: Principles, Policies, and Practice (2nd edition). CRC Press.
Sustainability in Prisons Project. (2021). Restorative nature.
Thigpen, M., Beauclair, T. & Carroll, S. (2011). The greening of corrections: Creating a sustainable system. U.S. Department of Justice.
Timler, K., Brown, H. & Varcoe, C. (2019) Growing connection beyond prison walls: How a prison garden fosters rehabilitation and healing for incarcerated men. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 58, 5, 444-463, DOI: 10.1080/10509674.2019.1615598
Timler, K., Varcoe, C., & Brown, H. (22019). Growing beyond nutrition: How a prison garden program highlights the potential of shifting from food security to food sovereignty for indigenous peoples. International Journal of Indigenous Health, 14(2), 95-114.
Toews, B., Wagenfeld, A. & Stevens, J. (2018). Impact of a nature-based intervention on incarcerated women. Int J Prison Health., 14(4), 232-243. doi: 10.1108/IJPH-12-2017-0065
Trivett, J.R., Pinderhughes, R., Bush, K., Caughman, L. & LeRoy, C.J. (2017). Sustainability education in prisons: Transforming lives, transforming the world. In Worldwatch Institute EarthEd. State of the World. Island Press. https://doi.org/10.5822/978-1-61091-843-5_19
Watkins, C. (2017). Industrialized bodies: Women, food, and environmental justice in the criminal justice system. In Nocella, Ducre & Lupinacci (Eds.) Addressing Environmental and Food Justice toward Dismantling the School-to-Prison Pipeline. Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-50822-5_8
Weber, S.R., Hayes, M.P., Webb, T. & LeRoy, C.J. (2015). Environmental education in prison: A comparison of teaching methods and their influence on inmate attitudes and knowledge of environmental topics. Interdisciplinar Environmental Review, 16(2-4), 267-284. https://doi.org/10.1504/IER.2015.071026
- (2015). Growing Washington’s prison landscapes A design & construction guidebook.
EXAMPLES OF CORRECTIONS POPULATIONS AND PROGRAMS
5 Incredible Prison Rehabilitation Programs includes gardens, farm & exotic animals.
Cook County Jail Gardening Program in Chicago - inmates comment on their experiences growing produce including donations, sales to local restaurants, transformations in attitudes & activities.
Farm and Rehabilitation Meals (FARM) program in San Diego grows and serves farm produce in prison.
Greenhouse at Rikers Island Prison is a horticultural therapy & vocational training program, with adjunct programs Apple Seed, Greenteam, Neighborhood Plaza program, & NYDigs.
Growing Opportunities Gardening Program at Girls Rehabilitation Facility, San Diego, CA uses vocational horticulture as a pathway/exploration for career choices for girls aged 13-17.
Insight Garden Program in California transforms prisoners’ lives through connection to nature.
Lookout Garden at Mission Institution partners with Correctional Service Canada (in British Columbia) addressing food security, food access for inmates & local communities, in particular, Aboriginal communities.
Northern Oregon Regional Corrections Juvenile Detention Facility works with master gardeners providing horticulture job training, sustainable agriculture & conservation programs for inmates using a greenhouse setting.
Cook County Jail Gardening Program in Chicago - inmates comment on their experiences growing produce including donations, sales to local restaurants, transformations in attitudes & activities.
Farm and Rehabilitation Meals (FARM) program in San Diego grows and serves farm produce in prison.
Greenhouse at Rikers Island Prison is a horticultural therapy & vocational training program, with adjunct programs Apple Seed, Greenteam, Neighborhood Plaza program, & NYDigs.
Growing Opportunities Gardening Program at Girls Rehabilitation Facility, San Diego, CA uses vocational horticulture as a pathway/exploration for career choices for girls aged 13-17.
Insight Garden Program in California transforms prisoners’ lives through connection to nature.
Lookout Garden at Mission Institution partners with Correctional Service Canada (in British Columbia) addressing food security, food access for inmates & local communities, in particular, Aboriginal communities.
Northern Oregon Regional Corrections Juvenile Detention Facility works with master gardeners providing horticulture job training, sustainable agriculture & conservation programs for inmates using a greenhouse setting.
VIDEOS, Websites & WEBINARS ON CORRECTIONS POPULATIONS AND PROGRAMS
Beekeeping in Prisons Program Guide from Sustainability in Prisons Project
Community Contributions initiative from the Evergreen State College, Dept of Corrections Washington State & multiple corrections facilities partner with community groups.
Could Meditation and Gardening Break the Cycle of Prison Recidivism? Video - a look at a California model.
Florida Prison Farmworker Programs help state and inmates. “According to UF/IFAS, at the West Florida Research and Education Center in Jay, FL, prisoners produced nearly $1 million of fresh produce that fed hundreds of needy families and saved the state money.”
Garden for Good, Hutchinson Correctional Facility in Kansas, (video) provides individual garden beds for inmates to grow their own food; they donate food to local groups; sell produce to inmates & other innovative activities, supported by Kansas State Research and Extension.
Gardening in Correctional Facilities fact sheet from New Jersey Agricultural Experiment station Rutgers provides info on starting a garden & considerations for detention center gardens.
Inmate Horticultural Program Helps Inmates - an interview from ABC News looks at Pinellas County jail’s program in Florida.
Benton-Franklin Juvenile Detention Center Garden has inmates grow food for educational purposes and for addressing food insecurity, working with master gardeners.
Planting Hope Through a Jail Garden Program uses a garden and recycled materials. Inmates grow food in the Fresh Start Garden in conjunction with UTA & the local sheriff’s dept.
Salvation Farms organization, with the Vermont Dept of Corrections use locally grown potatoes & apples in prison cafeterias, in addition to hands-on food processing skills training, planting & donating food to local food banks.
Washington Corrections Center for Women uses multiple horticulture-centric programs: Roots of Success, Prairie Conservation Nursery, Gardens & greenhouses, pollinator plantings, Mother Earth Farm, & Community College Horticulture courses.
20 organizations planting the seeds for food justice in prisons article on Foodtank website identifies newer trends.
Community Contributions initiative from the Evergreen State College, Dept of Corrections Washington State & multiple corrections facilities partner with community groups.
Could Meditation and Gardening Break the Cycle of Prison Recidivism? Video - a look at a California model.
Florida Prison Farmworker Programs help state and inmates. “According to UF/IFAS, at the West Florida Research and Education Center in Jay, FL, prisoners produced nearly $1 million of fresh produce that fed hundreds of needy families and saved the state money.”
Garden for Good, Hutchinson Correctional Facility in Kansas, (video) provides individual garden beds for inmates to grow their own food; they donate food to local groups; sell produce to inmates & other innovative activities, supported by Kansas State Research and Extension.
Gardening in Correctional Facilities fact sheet from New Jersey Agricultural Experiment station Rutgers provides info on starting a garden & considerations for detention center gardens.
Inmate Horticultural Program Helps Inmates - an interview from ABC News looks at Pinellas County jail’s program in Florida.
Benton-Franklin Juvenile Detention Center Garden has inmates grow food for educational purposes and for addressing food insecurity, working with master gardeners.
Planting Hope Through a Jail Garden Program uses a garden and recycled materials. Inmates grow food in the Fresh Start Garden in conjunction with UTA & the local sheriff’s dept.
Salvation Farms organization, with the Vermont Dept of Corrections use locally grown potatoes & apples in prison cafeterias, in addition to hands-on food processing skills training, planting & donating food to local food banks.
Washington Corrections Center for Women uses multiple horticulture-centric programs: Roots of Success, Prairie Conservation Nursery, Gardens & greenhouses, pollinator plantings, Mother Earth Farm, & Community College Horticulture courses.
20 organizations planting the seeds for food justice in prisons article on Foodtank website identifies newer trends.
RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, Papua New Guinea
Bastoy Prison, Norway (first eco-friendly prison)
Food Matters (U.K.)
Local Cooperative Extension & master gardener programs
Bastoy Prison, Norway (first eco-friendly prison)
Food Matters (U.K.)
Local Cooperative Extension & master gardener programs
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming & Siang Yu Tham Dec 2021; revised in 2022 by Lesley Fleming, Bree Stark
VETERANS & ACTIVE MILITARY POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
“Horticultural therapy along with other nature-based therapies and interventions are being recognized as alternative and adjunct health strategies effective for veterans and active military. The diversity of programs allows for flexibility and understanding that no one intervention works for all. Integral to each type of program is connecting with nature in some capacity” (Fleming, 2021). These horticulture-focused approaches include ecopsychology & ecotherapy, therapeutic recreation, field exercises, veteran to farmer initiatives, female-specific programming with nature-base activity, and therapeutic gardens. A recent paper identified gardens & plant-based programs at U.S. VA hospitals (Fleming et al., 2022). Interest in plant-based and nature-based health interventions continues to expand, with initiatives identified in the U.S., UK and Europe, these addressing health challenges of veterans, active military and military families. Several newer themes, reflective of challenges within this population have been published relating to military/veterans’ experiences with trauma, and sexual trauma, experienced by both men and women (21% women vs 1.6% men) (Gros et al., 2020; Rosenstein, 2015).
Related resources may be found in category Populations – mental health & Horticultural Therapy
“Horticultural therapy along with other nature-based therapies and interventions are being recognized as alternative and adjunct health strategies effective for veterans and active military. The diversity of programs allows for flexibility and understanding that no one intervention works for all. Integral to each type of program is connecting with nature in some capacity” (Fleming, 2021). These horticulture-focused approaches include ecopsychology & ecotherapy, therapeutic recreation, field exercises, veteran to farmer initiatives, female-specific programming with nature-base activity, and therapeutic gardens. A recent paper identified gardens & plant-based programs at U.S. VA hospitals (Fleming et al., 2022). Interest in plant-based and nature-based health interventions continues to expand, with initiatives identified in the U.S., UK and Europe, these addressing health challenges of veterans, active military and military families. Several newer themes, reflective of challenges within this population have been published relating to military/veterans’ experiences with trauma, and sexual trauma, experienced by both men and women (21% women vs 1.6% men) (Gros et al., 2020; Rosenstein, 2015).
Related resources may be found in category Populations – mental health & Horticultural Therapy
Key organizations
Gardening Leave
HighGround (UK)
The Defence Gardens Scheme
Veterans Affairs (various programs, gardens, grants)
HighGround (UK)
The Defence Gardens Scheme
Veterans Affairs (various programs, gardens, grants)
BOOKS, JOURNALS & EPUBLICATIONS ON veterans & active military programs
Benedek, D.M. & Wynn, G.H. (2016). Complementary and Alternative Medicine for PTSD. Oxford University Press. doi: https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780190205959.001.0001
Gaskin, R. (2015). A Warrior’s Garden: Seeds of a Therapeutic Approach to Dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Traitmarker Books.
Government Resources Guide for Farmer Veterans
Journal of Veterans Studies
Military Behavioral Health journal
Tidball & Krasney. (Eds.) Greening in the Red Zone. Springer.
Townsend, M. (Ed.) Veterans: Political, Social and Health Issues (pp.27-50). Nova Science Publishers.
Townsend, M. & Weerasuriya, R. (2010). Beyond Blue to Green: The Benefits of Contact with Nature for Mental Health and Well-being. Beyond Blue Limited.
Westlund, S. (2014). Field Exercises: How Veterans Are Healing Themselves through Farming and Outdoor Activities. New Society Publishers.
Wise, J. (2015). Digging for Victory: Horticultural Therapy with Veterans for Post-Traumatic Growth. Karnac Books.
Gaskin, R. (2015). A Warrior’s Garden: Seeds of a Therapeutic Approach to Dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Traitmarker Books.
Government Resources Guide for Farmer Veterans
Journal of Veterans Studies
Military Behavioral Health journal
Tidball & Krasney. (Eds.) Greening in the Red Zone. Springer.
Townsend, M. (Ed.) Veterans: Political, Social and Health Issues (pp.27-50). Nova Science Publishers.
Townsend, M. & Weerasuriya, R. (2010). Beyond Blue to Green: The Benefits of Contact with Nature for Mental Health and Well-being. Beyond Blue Limited.
Westlund, S. (2014). Field Exercises: How Veterans Are Healing Themselves through Farming and Outdoor Activities. New Society Publishers.
Wise, J. (2015). Digging for Victory: Horticultural Therapy with Veterans for Post-Traumatic Growth. Karnac Books.
RESEARCH & ARTICLES ON VETERANS & ACTIVE MILITARY PROGRAMS
Recently published selected research & articles:
Ameli, R., Skeath, P., Abraham, P.A., Panahi, S., Kaxman, J.B., Foote, F., Deuster, P.A., Ahmad, N. & Berger, A. (2021). A nature-based health intervention at a military healthcare center: A randomized, controlled, cross-over study. PeerJ, 9, e10519. https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.10519
Atkinson, J. (2009). An evaluation of the Gardening Leave Project for ex-military personnel with PTSD and other combat related mental health problems. The Pears Foundation.
Batt-Rawdon, K.B. & Tellnes, G. (2005). Nature culture health activities as a method of rehabilitation: An evaluation of participants’ health, quality of life and function. International Journal of Rehabilitation Research, 28(2), 175–180. doi: 10.1097/00004356-200506000-00013
Besterman-Dahan, K., Bradley, S.E., Arriola, N.B. & Downs, K. (2021). Blocking out the rabbit holes: Photovoice and community gardening as healing space for veterans. Wellbeing, Space and Society, 2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wss.2021.100061
Besterman-Dahan, K., Arriola, N.B. & Bradley, S.E. (2021). Field notes:* Evaluation of the impacts of a community garden program for veterans on food security and indicators of healthy diets. Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition, 16(3), 442-445, doi: 10.1080/19320248.2021.1886215
Besterman-Dahan, K., Chavez, M., Bendixsen, C. & Dillahunt-Aspillaga, C. (2016). Community reintegration of transitioning veterans: An overview of agricultural initiatives. In Townsend (Ed.) Veterans: Political, Social and Health Issues, 27-50. Nova Science Publishers, Inc.
Bird, K. (2015). Research evaluation of an Australian peer outdoor support therapy program for contemporary veterans’ wellbeing. International Journal of Mental Health, 44(1–2), 46–79. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207411.2015.1009752
Boehler, J. (2019). The efficacy of cognitive processing therapy for PTSD related to military sexual trauma in veterans: A review. J Evid Based Soc Work., 16(6), 595-614. doi: 10.1080/26408066.2019
Bokhour, B.G., Haun, J.N., Hyde, J., Charns, M. & Kligler, B. (2020). Transforming the veterans affairs to a whole health system of care: Time for action and research. Medical Care, 58(4), 295-300.
Brennan, E. (2018). 25 programs bringing veterans into the new food movement. Foodtank.
Brostow, D.P., E. Gunzburger, E. & Thomas, KS. (2017). Food insecurity among veterans: Findings from the health and retirement study. The J. Nutr, Health and Aging, 21(10), 1358-1364.
Brown, C., Besterman-Dahan, K., Chavez, M., Njoh, E. & Smith, W. (2016). "It gave me an excuse to get out into society again”: Decreasing veteran isolation through a community agricultural peer support model. Journal of Veterans Studies, 1(1), 163–204. http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v1i1.42
Capaldi, C.A., Dopko, R.L. & Zelenski, J.M. (2014). The relationship between nature connectedness and happiness: A meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychology, 5, 976. doi: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00976
Cohen, A.J., Rudolph, J.L., Thomas, K.S., Archambault, E., Bowman, M.M., Going, M., O'Toole, T.P, & Dosa, DM. (2020). Food insecurity among veterans: Resources to screen and intervene. Federal Practitioner, 37 (1), 16.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N. (2014). Gardens for veterans and active service personnel. In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-Based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Danan, E.R., Krebs, E.E., Ensrud, K., Koeller, E., MacDonald, R., Velasquez, T., Greer, N. & Wilt, T.J. (2017). An evidence map of the women veterans’ health research literature (2008–2015). Journal of General Internal Medicine, 32(12), 1359–1376. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-017-4152-5
Disabled Veterans National Foundation. (2022). Blair’s Sanctuary Garden helps women veterans heal.
Detweiler, M.B., Self, J.A., Lane, S., Spencer, L., Lutgens, B., Kim, D.Y., Halling, M.H., Rudder, T.C. & Lehmann, LP. (2015). Horticultural therapy: A pilot study on modulating cortisol levels and indices of substance craving, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and quality of life in veterans. Altern Ther Health Med., 21(4), 36-41.
Eichholz, C. (2020). Therapeutic horticulture as a healing tool for veterans. Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) Dissertations. 142.
Fleming, L. (2021). Veterans, poppies and connections to nature. Digging In, 6(4), 1-5.
Fleming, L. (2015). Veteran to farmer programs: An emerging nature-based programming trend. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 25(1), 27-48.
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), 11-30.
Foote, F.O., Benson, H., Berger, A., Berman, B., DeLeo, J., Deuster, P.A., Lary, D.J., Silverman, M.N. & Sternberg, E.M. (2018). Advanced metrics for assessing holistic care: The "Epidaurus 2" Project. Glob Adv Health Med., 7, 2164957X18755981. doi: 10.1177/2164957X18755981
Greer, M. & Vin-Raviv, N. (2019). Outdoor-based therapeutic recreation programs among military veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: Assessing the evidence. Mil. Behav. Health., 7, 286-303. doi: 10.1080/21635781.2018.1543063
Gross, G.M., Ronzitti, S., Combellick, J.L., Decker, S.E., Mattocks, K.M., Hoff, R.A., Haskell, S.G., Brandt, C.A. & Goulet, J.L. (2020). Sex differences in military sexual trauma and severe self-directed violence. Am J Prev Med., 58(5), 675-682. doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2019
Hart, B. & Zanzskas, S. (2021). Cultivating care: Trauma, homeless veterans, and nature-based therapy. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1), 25-38.
Havlick, D.G., Cerveny, L.K. & Derrien, M.M. (2021). Therapeutic landscapes, outdoor programs for veterans, and public lands. Soc Sci Med., 268, 113540. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113540
Hawkins, B.L., Townsend, J.A. & Garst, B.A. (2016). Nature-based recreational therapy for military service members a strengths approach. Ther. Recreation J., 50, 55-74. doi: 10.18666/TRJ-2016-V50-I1-6793
Kelley, R.J., Waliczek, T.M. & Le Duc, F.A. (2017). The effects of greenhouse activities on psychological stress, depression, and anxiety among university students who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. HortScience, 52, 1834-1839. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI12372-17
Koven, SG. (2018). Veteran treatment: PTSD interventions. Healthcare Special Issue Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Veterans, 6(3). Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute.
Krasny, M.E., Pace, K.H., Tidball, K.G. & Helphand, K. (2014). Nature engagement to foster resilience in military communities. In Tidball & Krasney (Eds.) Greening in the Red Zone. Springer.
Lehmann, L.P., Detweiler, J.G. & Detweiler, M.B. (2018). Veterans in substance abuse treatment program self-initiate box gardening as a stress reducing therapeutic modality. Complement Ther Med., 36, 50-53. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.10.013
Meore, A., Sun, S., Byma, L., Alter, S., Vitale, A., Podolak, E., Gibbard, B., Adams, T., Boyer, J., Galfalvy, H., Yehuda, R., Feder, A. & Haghighi F. (2021). Pilot evaluation of horticultural therapy in improving overall wellness in veterans with history of suicidality. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 59, 102728. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102728
Mottershead, R. & Ghisoni, M. (2021). Horticultural therapy, nutrition and post-traumatic stress disorder in post-military veterans: Developing non-pharmaceutical interventions to complement existing therapeutic approaches. F1000Res., 10, 885. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.70643.1
Oster, C., Morello, A., Venning, A., Redpath, P. & Lawn, S. (2017). The health and wellbeing needs of veterans: A rapid review. BMC Psychiatry, 17(1), 414. doi: 10.1186/s12888-017-1547-0
Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K. & Davidsen, A.S. (2018). "That guy, Is he really sick at all?" An analysis of how veterans with PTSD experience nature-based therapy. Healthcare (Basel), 6(2), 64. doi: 10.3390/healthcare6020064
Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K., Djernis, D. & Sidenius. U. (2016). 'Everything just seems much more right in nature': How veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder experience nature-based activities in a forest therapy garden. Health Psychol Open, 3(1), 2055102916637090. doi: 10.1177/2055102916637090
Poulsen, D.V. (2017). Nature-based therapy as a treatment for veterans with PTSD: What do we know? Journal of Public Mental Health, 16(1), 15-20. doi:10.1108/JPMH-08-2016-0039
Reisman, M. (2016). PTSD treatment for veterans: What’s working, what’s new, and what’s next. P T., 41(10), 623–634
Rosenstein, J.E. (2015). Military sexual assault prevention and male rape myth acceptance. Military Behavioral Health, 3(4), 207-2011.
Schneider, J. (2016). Development of a plant care guide for the Veterans Hospital horticultural therapy program. Bachelor’s Thesis: Suny College of Environmental Science and Forestry.
Stark, B. (2022). HighGround program in UK gives life beyond the military – outdoors. Cultivate, 2(3), 12-13.
Stowell, D. & Owens, A. (2019). Program example: Piloting a horticultural therapy program for veterans. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Stowell, D.R. & Burnett A. (2019). Promoting the profession of horticultural therapy through Partnerships (with TN Agrability Project with veterans). Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(2), 39-46.
Taylor, S., Miller, B.L., Tallapragada, M. & Vogel, M. (2020). Veterans’ transition out of the military and knowledge of mental health disorders. Journal of Veterans Studies, 6(1), 85-95. doi: 10.21061/jvs.6i1.131
Theal, R., Kerin, J.L. & Romaniuk, M. (2020). Psychosocial outcomes of Australian male and female veterans following participation in peer-led adventure-based therapy. Journal of Veterans Studies, 6(2), 70–87. doi: http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v6i2.189
Tidball, K.G. (2018). Farming and veterans – why agricultural programs resonate with returning combatants. Journal of Veterans Studies, 3(1), 85-88. doi: http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v3i1.6
Tidball, K.G. & Tidball, M.M. (2022). Linking food motivations with therapeutic outdoor recreation outings for veterans. Journal of Veterans Studies, 8(3), 59-69.
Townsend, J., Hawkins, B. L., Bennett, J. L., Hoffman, J., Martin, T., Sotherden, E. & Bridges, W. (2018). Preliminary long-term health outcomes associated with recreation-based health and wellness programs for injured service members. Cogent Psychology, 5(1), 1444330. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/23311908.2018.1444330
Tuepker, A., Waller, D. & Hoffman, S. (2021). Digging deeper: Experiences and impacts on wellbeing among veterans and VA employees engaged in a therapeutic horticulture pilot project. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: the Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022). Polytrauma/TBI system of care.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Construction & Facilities Management. (2014).
Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center design guide.
Westlund, S. (2015). 'Becoming human again': Exploring connections between nature and recovery from stress and post-traumatic distress. Work, 50(1), 161-74. doi: 10.3233/WOR-141934
Wheeler, M., Cooper, N.R., Andrews, L., Hacker Hughes, J., Juanchich, M., Rakow, T. & Orbell, S. (2020). Outdoor recreational activity experiences improve psychological wellbeing of military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder: Positive findings from a pilot study and a randomised controlled trial. PLoS One, 15(11), e0241763. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241763
Ameli, R., Skeath, P., Abraham, P.A., Panahi, S., Kaxman, J.B., Foote, F., Deuster, P.A., Ahmad, N. & Berger, A. (2021). A nature-based health intervention at a military healthcare center: A randomized, controlled, cross-over study. PeerJ, 9, e10519. https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.10519
Atkinson, J. (2009). An evaluation of the Gardening Leave Project for ex-military personnel with PTSD and other combat related mental health problems. The Pears Foundation.
Batt-Rawdon, K.B. & Tellnes, G. (2005). Nature culture health activities as a method of rehabilitation: An evaluation of participants’ health, quality of life and function. International Journal of Rehabilitation Research, 28(2), 175–180. doi: 10.1097/00004356-200506000-00013
Besterman-Dahan, K., Bradley, S.E., Arriola, N.B. & Downs, K. (2021). Blocking out the rabbit holes: Photovoice and community gardening as healing space for veterans. Wellbeing, Space and Society, 2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wss.2021.100061
Besterman-Dahan, K., Arriola, N.B. & Bradley, S.E. (2021). Field notes:* Evaluation of the impacts of a community garden program for veterans on food security and indicators of healthy diets. Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition, 16(3), 442-445, doi: 10.1080/19320248.2021.1886215
Besterman-Dahan, K., Chavez, M., Bendixsen, C. & Dillahunt-Aspillaga, C. (2016). Community reintegration of transitioning veterans: An overview of agricultural initiatives. In Townsend (Ed.) Veterans: Political, Social and Health Issues, 27-50. Nova Science Publishers, Inc.
Bird, K. (2015). Research evaluation of an Australian peer outdoor support therapy program for contemporary veterans’ wellbeing. International Journal of Mental Health, 44(1–2), 46–79. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207411.2015.1009752
Boehler, J. (2019). The efficacy of cognitive processing therapy for PTSD related to military sexual trauma in veterans: A review. J Evid Based Soc Work., 16(6), 595-614. doi: 10.1080/26408066.2019
Bokhour, B.G., Haun, J.N., Hyde, J., Charns, M. & Kligler, B. (2020). Transforming the veterans affairs to a whole health system of care: Time for action and research. Medical Care, 58(4), 295-300.
Brennan, E. (2018). 25 programs bringing veterans into the new food movement. Foodtank.
Brostow, D.P., E. Gunzburger, E. & Thomas, KS. (2017). Food insecurity among veterans: Findings from the health and retirement study. The J. Nutr, Health and Aging, 21(10), 1358-1364.
Brown, C., Besterman-Dahan, K., Chavez, M., Njoh, E. & Smith, W. (2016). "It gave me an excuse to get out into society again”: Decreasing veteran isolation through a community agricultural peer support model. Journal of Veterans Studies, 1(1), 163–204. http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v1i1.42
Capaldi, C.A., Dopko, R.L. & Zelenski, J.M. (2014). The relationship between nature connectedness and happiness: A meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychology, 5, 976. doi: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00976
Cohen, A.J., Rudolph, J.L., Thomas, K.S., Archambault, E., Bowman, M.M., Going, M., O'Toole, T.P, & Dosa, DM. (2020). Food insecurity among veterans: Resources to screen and intervene. Federal Practitioner, 37 (1), 16.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N. (2014). Gardens for veterans and active service personnel. In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-Based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Danan, E.R., Krebs, E.E., Ensrud, K., Koeller, E., MacDonald, R., Velasquez, T., Greer, N. & Wilt, T.J. (2017). An evidence map of the women veterans’ health research literature (2008–2015). Journal of General Internal Medicine, 32(12), 1359–1376. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-017-4152-5
Disabled Veterans National Foundation. (2022). Blair’s Sanctuary Garden helps women veterans heal.
Detweiler, M.B., Self, J.A., Lane, S., Spencer, L., Lutgens, B., Kim, D.Y., Halling, M.H., Rudder, T.C. & Lehmann, LP. (2015). Horticultural therapy: A pilot study on modulating cortisol levels and indices of substance craving, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and quality of life in veterans. Altern Ther Health Med., 21(4), 36-41.
Eichholz, C. (2020). Therapeutic horticulture as a healing tool for veterans. Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) Dissertations. 142.
Fleming, L. (2021). Veterans, poppies and connections to nature. Digging In, 6(4), 1-5.
Fleming, L. (2015). Veteran to farmer programs: An emerging nature-based programming trend. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 25(1), 27-48.
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), 11-30.
Foote, F.O., Benson, H., Berger, A., Berman, B., DeLeo, J., Deuster, P.A., Lary, D.J., Silverman, M.N. & Sternberg, E.M. (2018). Advanced metrics for assessing holistic care: The "Epidaurus 2" Project. Glob Adv Health Med., 7, 2164957X18755981. doi: 10.1177/2164957X18755981
Greer, M. & Vin-Raviv, N. (2019). Outdoor-based therapeutic recreation programs among military veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: Assessing the evidence. Mil. Behav. Health., 7, 286-303. doi: 10.1080/21635781.2018.1543063
Gross, G.M., Ronzitti, S., Combellick, J.L., Decker, S.E., Mattocks, K.M., Hoff, R.A., Haskell, S.G., Brandt, C.A. & Goulet, J.L. (2020). Sex differences in military sexual trauma and severe self-directed violence. Am J Prev Med., 58(5), 675-682. doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2019
Hart, B. & Zanzskas, S. (2021). Cultivating care: Trauma, homeless veterans, and nature-based therapy. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1), 25-38.
Havlick, D.G., Cerveny, L.K. & Derrien, M.M. (2021). Therapeutic landscapes, outdoor programs for veterans, and public lands. Soc Sci Med., 268, 113540. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113540
Hawkins, B.L., Townsend, J.A. & Garst, B.A. (2016). Nature-based recreational therapy for military service members a strengths approach. Ther. Recreation J., 50, 55-74. doi: 10.18666/TRJ-2016-V50-I1-6793
Kelley, R.J., Waliczek, T.M. & Le Duc, F.A. (2017). The effects of greenhouse activities on psychological stress, depression, and anxiety among university students who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. HortScience, 52, 1834-1839. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI12372-17
Koven, SG. (2018). Veteran treatment: PTSD interventions. Healthcare Special Issue Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Veterans, 6(3). Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute.
Krasny, M.E., Pace, K.H., Tidball, K.G. & Helphand, K. (2014). Nature engagement to foster resilience in military communities. In Tidball & Krasney (Eds.) Greening in the Red Zone. Springer.
Lehmann, L.P., Detweiler, J.G. & Detweiler, M.B. (2018). Veterans in substance abuse treatment program self-initiate box gardening as a stress reducing therapeutic modality. Complement Ther Med., 36, 50-53. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.10.013
Meore, A., Sun, S., Byma, L., Alter, S., Vitale, A., Podolak, E., Gibbard, B., Adams, T., Boyer, J., Galfalvy, H., Yehuda, R., Feder, A. & Haghighi F. (2021). Pilot evaluation of horticultural therapy in improving overall wellness in veterans with history of suicidality. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 59, 102728. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102728
Mottershead, R. & Ghisoni, M. (2021). Horticultural therapy, nutrition and post-traumatic stress disorder in post-military veterans: Developing non-pharmaceutical interventions to complement existing therapeutic approaches. F1000Res., 10, 885. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.70643.1
Oster, C., Morello, A., Venning, A., Redpath, P. & Lawn, S. (2017). The health and wellbeing needs of veterans: A rapid review. BMC Psychiatry, 17(1), 414. doi: 10.1186/s12888-017-1547-0
Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K. & Davidsen, A.S. (2018). "That guy, Is he really sick at all?" An analysis of how veterans with PTSD experience nature-based therapy. Healthcare (Basel), 6(2), 64. doi: 10.3390/healthcare6020064
Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K., Djernis, D. & Sidenius. U. (2016). 'Everything just seems much more right in nature': How veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder experience nature-based activities in a forest therapy garden. Health Psychol Open, 3(1), 2055102916637090. doi: 10.1177/2055102916637090
Poulsen, D.V. (2017). Nature-based therapy as a treatment for veterans with PTSD: What do we know? Journal of Public Mental Health, 16(1), 15-20. doi:10.1108/JPMH-08-2016-0039
Reisman, M. (2016). PTSD treatment for veterans: What’s working, what’s new, and what’s next. P T., 41(10), 623–634
Rosenstein, J.E. (2015). Military sexual assault prevention and male rape myth acceptance. Military Behavioral Health, 3(4), 207-2011.
Schneider, J. (2016). Development of a plant care guide for the Veterans Hospital horticultural therapy program. Bachelor’s Thesis: Suny College of Environmental Science and Forestry.
Stark, B. (2022). HighGround program in UK gives life beyond the military – outdoors. Cultivate, 2(3), 12-13.
Stowell, D. & Owens, A. (2019). Program example: Piloting a horticultural therapy program for veterans. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Stowell, D.R. & Burnett A. (2019). Promoting the profession of horticultural therapy through Partnerships (with TN Agrability Project with veterans). Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(2), 39-46.
Taylor, S., Miller, B.L., Tallapragada, M. & Vogel, M. (2020). Veterans’ transition out of the military and knowledge of mental health disorders. Journal of Veterans Studies, 6(1), 85-95. doi: 10.21061/jvs.6i1.131
Theal, R., Kerin, J.L. & Romaniuk, M. (2020). Psychosocial outcomes of Australian male and female veterans following participation in peer-led adventure-based therapy. Journal of Veterans Studies, 6(2), 70–87. doi: http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v6i2.189
Tidball, K.G. (2018). Farming and veterans – why agricultural programs resonate with returning combatants. Journal of Veterans Studies, 3(1), 85-88. doi: http://doi.org/10.21061/jvs.v3i1.6
Tidball, K.G. & Tidball, M.M. (2022). Linking food motivations with therapeutic outdoor recreation outings for veterans. Journal of Veterans Studies, 8(3), 59-69.
Townsend, J., Hawkins, B. L., Bennett, J. L., Hoffman, J., Martin, T., Sotherden, E. & Bridges, W. (2018). Preliminary long-term health outcomes associated with recreation-based health and wellness programs for injured service members. Cogent Psychology, 5(1), 1444330. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/23311908.2018.1444330
Tuepker, A., Waller, D. & Hoffman, S. (2021). Digging deeper: Experiences and impacts on wellbeing among veterans and VA employees engaged in a therapeutic horticulture pilot project. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: the Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022). Polytrauma/TBI system of care.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Construction & Facilities Management. (2014).
Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center design guide.
Westlund, S. (2015). 'Becoming human again': Exploring connections between nature and recovery from stress and post-traumatic distress. Work, 50(1), 161-74. doi: 10.3233/WOR-141934
Wheeler, M., Cooper, N.R., Andrews, L., Hacker Hughes, J., Juanchich, M., Rakow, T. & Orbell, S. (2020). Outdoor recreational activity experiences improve psychological wellbeing of military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder: Positive findings from a pilot study and a randomised controlled trial. PLoS One, 15(11), e0241763. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241763
EXAMPLES OF VETERANS & ACTIVE MILITARY PROGRAMS
Blair’s Sanctuary Garden (Orting, WA) was established for women veterans including those with military sexual trauma (MST), to grow organic healthy food for food insecure people while coping with trauma & the transition to civilian life.
Breaking New Ground delivered by Talmar Inc. in conjunction with VA Maryland Health Care System & Baltimore County Therapeutic Recreation and Parks in Maryland, offers sustainable agriculture training for veterans.
Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)- Hydroponics course through Veterans to Farmers & Denver Botanical Gardens is available.
Denver Botanic Gardens’ Chatfield Farm has a 315 hr. training program connecting veterans to farming careers.
Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System (NC) has partnered with Reinvestment Partners for a produce prescription program Eat Well, providing eligible veterans with access to food as part of a medical treatment or preventative service for patients.
Hampton Veteran Affairs Medical Center’s horticultural therapy garden, undertaken in cooperation with volunteers from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, VA use this site for healing.
Epidaurus 2 Project & The Green Road video, shows a therapeutic nature space on the grounds of the National Military Medical Complex in Bethesda.
Farmer Veteran Coalition website with resources, programs, partners, & chapters.
New York Botanical Gardens’ Veterans Horticultural Therapy Program (THRIVE) at the Resilience and Wellness Center at the James J. Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center in the Bronx, funded through an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant.
Palo Alta (CA) VA Medical Center hospital garden was specifically designed for polytrauma patients
Perry Point VA Medical Center, Perry Point Maryland has a horticultural therapy program for veterans utilizing gardens, greenhouse, and an affiliated farm program with TALMAR & VA Maryland Health System.
St. Johns Hops, named after the St. Johns River in north Florida, works with veterans to grow sustainable hops using horticultural therapy addressing PTSD.
Tampa FL GROW program (Veteran Garden for Community and Wellness) through James A. Haley Veterans Hospital taking place offsite at a local urban farm provides veterans with a gardening program & healing space.
The Veterans Greenhouse & Gardens Program- UCLA-West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Campus.
University of Florida Wilmot Botanical Gardens Therapeutic Horticulture Program for Veterans.
VA Greater LA Healthcare System’s Healthy Teaching Kitchen promotes & educates veterans about nutrition & cooking.
VEGGIE program at University of Tennessee pilot horticultural therapy program.
Veterans’ Growth charity in Tennessee helps ex-service personnel suffering from mental health issues with horticultural therapy services and support.
Veterans Affairs Farming and Recovery Mental Health Services (VA FARMS) began in 2018 as a pilot program for agricultural training with community partners, at 10 VHA sites of care through VHA Office of Rural Health.
Veterans Farm Network designed by Forces & Families in Canada, has therapeutic & vocational programs with agricultural & horticultural operations.
Veteran Internship Program (VIP) at Chicago Botanic Gardens is a 14 week vocational training program.
Breaking New Ground delivered by Talmar Inc. in conjunction with VA Maryland Health Care System & Baltimore County Therapeutic Recreation and Parks in Maryland, offers sustainable agriculture training for veterans.
Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)- Hydroponics course through Veterans to Farmers & Denver Botanical Gardens is available.
Denver Botanic Gardens’ Chatfield Farm has a 315 hr. training program connecting veterans to farming careers.
Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System (NC) has partnered with Reinvestment Partners for a produce prescription program Eat Well, providing eligible veterans with access to food as part of a medical treatment or preventative service for patients.
Hampton Veteran Affairs Medical Center’s horticultural therapy garden, undertaken in cooperation with volunteers from Joint Base Langley-Eustis, VA use this site for healing.
Epidaurus 2 Project & The Green Road video, shows a therapeutic nature space on the grounds of the National Military Medical Complex in Bethesda.
Farmer Veteran Coalition website with resources, programs, partners, & chapters.
New York Botanical Gardens’ Veterans Horticultural Therapy Program (THRIVE) at the Resilience and Wellness Center at the James J. Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center in the Bronx, funded through an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant.
Palo Alta (CA) VA Medical Center hospital garden was specifically designed for polytrauma patients
Perry Point VA Medical Center, Perry Point Maryland has a horticultural therapy program for veterans utilizing gardens, greenhouse, and an affiliated farm program with TALMAR & VA Maryland Health System.
St. Johns Hops, named after the St. Johns River in north Florida, works with veterans to grow sustainable hops using horticultural therapy addressing PTSD.
Tampa FL GROW program (Veteran Garden for Community and Wellness) through James A. Haley Veterans Hospital taking place offsite at a local urban farm provides veterans with a gardening program & healing space.
The Veterans Greenhouse & Gardens Program- UCLA-West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Campus.
University of Florida Wilmot Botanical Gardens Therapeutic Horticulture Program for Veterans.
VA Greater LA Healthcare System’s Healthy Teaching Kitchen promotes & educates veterans about nutrition & cooking.
VEGGIE program at University of Tennessee pilot horticultural therapy program.
Veterans’ Growth charity in Tennessee helps ex-service personnel suffering from mental health issues with horticultural therapy services and support.
Veterans Affairs Farming and Recovery Mental Health Services (VA FARMS) began in 2018 as a pilot program for agricultural training with community partners, at 10 VHA sites of care through VHA Office of Rural Health.
Veterans Farm Network designed by Forces & Families in Canada, has therapeutic & vocational programs with agricultural & horticultural operations.
Veteran Internship Program (VIP) at Chicago Botanic Gardens is a 14 week vocational training program.
Videos, webinars & websites on veterans & active military programs
Epidaurus 2 Project & The Green Road video shows a therapeutic nature space on the grounds of the National Military Medical Complex in Bethesda.
Farmer Veteran Coalition website identifies resources, programs, partners, & chapters.
Freshold Veterans Program @ Chicago Botanic Gardens - veterans describe their experiences.
HighGround An Introduction video introduces the charity for veterans, injured service and active military using horticultural therapy and employment training in land-based sector (arborists, nature conservation, horticulture), connecting with nature. In the UK.
The Defence Gardens Scheme based in Northern Ireland is a network of gardens delivering & evaluating nature-based therapy for Armed Forces service leavers, veterans & their families.
Veterans Affairs Farming and Recovery Mental Health Services (VA FARMS) began in 2018 as a pilot program for agricultural training with community partners, at 10 VHA sites of care through VHA Office of Rural Health.
Veteran Internship Program (VIP) at Chicago Botanic Gardens is a 14 week vocational training program
Farmer Veteran Coalition website identifies resources, programs, partners, & chapters.
Freshold Veterans Program @ Chicago Botanic Gardens - veterans describe their experiences.
HighGround An Introduction video introduces the charity for veterans, injured service and active military using horticultural therapy and employment training in land-based sector (arborists, nature conservation, horticulture), connecting with nature. In the UK.
The Defence Gardens Scheme based in Northern Ireland is a network of gardens delivering & evaluating nature-based therapy for Armed Forces service leavers, veterans & their families.
Veterans Affairs Farming and Recovery Mental Health Services (VA FARMS) began in 2018 as a pilot program for agricultural training with community partners, at 10 VHA sites of care through VHA Office of Rural Health.
Veteran Internship Program (VIP) at Chicago Botanic Gardens is a 14 week vocational training program
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming & Derrick Stowell Dec 2021; revised Nov 2022 by Lesley Fleming, Bree Stark, Weishunhua Evey Zhang
CHILDREN & YOUTH POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Horticulture can impact children and youth on so many levels from increasing physical activity through gardening, improving nutrition by growing, tasting & eating healthy produce, promoting resiliency at school gardens, after-school horticulture programs & wilderness camps, and connecting with nature & plants in support of environmental stewardship. Plant-based recreational and therapeutic activities are being used to address adverse childhood experiences (ACE), trauma, family disruption, homelessness, early childhood development, poor nutrition, & COVID-19 issues. Research focuses on child & youth attitudes, behavior, neurosequential development and how plants, gardens and nature can positively impact child & youth populations. Horticulture programs for this population are delivered at a variety of places including schools, treatment centers, camps, and public gardens. Increasing attention is being paid to youth and college aged young people, recognizing that connections to nature & gardening can reduce their stress, improve attention & coping skills, & provide positive leisure activities.
For related resources refer to category Landscapes for Health: School Gardens & category Horticultural Therapy & Health Services.
Horticulture can impact children and youth on so many levels from increasing physical activity through gardening, improving nutrition by growing, tasting & eating healthy produce, promoting resiliency at school gardens, after-school horticulture programs & wilderness camps, and connecting with nature & plants in support of environmental stewardship. Plant-based recreational and therapeutic activities are being used to address adverse childhood experiences (ACE), trauma, family disruption, homelessness, early childhood development, poor nutrition, & COVID-19 issues. Research focuses on child & youth attitudes, behavior, neurosequential development and how plants, gardens and nature can positively impact child & youth populations. Horticulture programs for this population are delivered at a variety of places including schools, treatment centers, camps, and public gardens. Increasing attention is being paid to youth and college aged young people, recognizing that connections to nature & gardening can reduce their stress, improve attention & coping skills, & provide positive leisure activities.
For related resources refer to category Landscapes for Health: School Gardens & category Horticultural Therapy & Health Services.
Key organizations
Books, journals & epublications ON CHILDREN & YOUTH POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Fossen Brown, R. (2014). Gardening lab for kids. Quarry books. Junior Master Gardener curricula
Latane, C. (2021). Schools that heal: Design with mental health in mind. Island Press.
National Agriculture in the Classroom. (2022). Agricultural literacy curriculum matrix (searchable database).
National Wildlife Federation. (2022). Growing a wild NYC (a K-5 urban pollinator curriculum).
Rakow, D. A. & Eells, G. T. (2019). Nature Rx: Improving college-student mental health. Cornell University Press.
Latane, C. (2021). Schools that heal: Design with mental health in mind. Island Press.
National Agriculture in the Classroom. (2022). Agricultural literacy curriculum matrix (searchable database).
National Wildlife Federation. (2022). Growing a wild NYC (a K-5 urban pollinator curriculum).
Rakow, D. A. & Eells, G. T. (2019). Nature Rx: Improving college-student mental health. Cornell University Press.
Research & articles on CHILDREN & YOUTH POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Recently published selected research & articles:
Allah Yar, M. & Kazemi, F. (2020). The role of dish gardens on the physical and neuropsychological improvement of hospitalized children. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 53. doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2020.126713
Baur, J. (2020). Campus community gardens and student health: A case study of a campus garden and student well-being. J Am Coll Health. 5:1-8. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1751174
Berezowitz, C.K., Bontrager, A.B., Yoder, D.A. & Schoeller, D.A. (2015). School gardens enhance cademic performance and dietary outcomes in children. J. Sch. Health, 85(8), 508-518. doi: 10.1111/josh.12278
Bice, M.R., Ball, J., Bickford, N., Bickford, S.H., Hollman, A., Coughlin, A., Dinkel, D., Meyer, R.C. & Ranglack, D.H. (2018). Community gardens: Interactions between communities, schools, and impact on students. The Health Educator 50(1).
Burt, K.G., Lindel, N., Wang, J., Burgermaster, M. A & Fera, J. (2019). A nationwide snapshot of the predictors of and barriers to school garden success. J Nutr Educ Behav., 51(10), 1139-1149. doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2019.06.020
Chiumento, A. Mukherjee, I., Chandna, J., Dutton, C., Rahman, A. & Bristow, K. (2018). A haven of green space: Learning from a pilot pre-post evaluation of a school-based social and therapeutic horticulture intervention with children. BMC Public Health, 18(1), 836. doi: 10.1186/s12889-018-5661-9
Coffino, J.A., Spoor, S.P., Drach, R. & Hormes, J.M. (2021). Food insecurity among graduate students: prevalence and association with depression, anxiety and stress. Public Health Nutr., 24(7), 1889-1894. https:// doi.org/10.1017/s1368980020002001
Currey, C.J., VanDerZanden, A.M. & Mitchell, J.J. (2018). Increasing student awareness and understanding of food security by integrating a service-learning project into an undergraduate hydroponic food production course. HortTechnology, 28(4). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04034-18
Dadvand, P., Nieuwenhuijsen, M.J., Esnaola, M., Forns, J., Basagaña, X., Alvarez-Pedrerol, M., ... & Sunyer, J. (2015). Green spaces and cognitive development in primary schoolchildren. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 112(26), 7937-7942.
Davis, J.N., Martinez, L.C. Spruijt-Metz, D. & Gatto, N.M. (2016). LA Sprouts: A 12-week gardening nutrition, and cooking randomized control trial improves determinants of dietary behaviors. J Nutr Educ Behav., 48(1), 2-11.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2015.08.009
Diehl, L. (2021). The effect of therapeutic horticulture on student wellbeing. AHTA Magazine 49(3), 11.
Elten, M., Benchimol, E.I., Fell, D.B., Kuenzig, M.E., Smith, G., Kaplan, G.G., Chen, H., Crouse, D. & Lavigne, E. (2021). Residential greenspace in childhood reduces risk of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease: A population-based cohort study. Am J Gastroenterol., 116(2), 347-353. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000000990
Etheredge, C.L., Waliczek, T.M. & sudakaran, P.O. (2020). Measuring the economic and educational value of a university-based service-learning floral and plant program. HortTechnology, 30(3). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04528-19
Eugenio-Gozalbo, M., Aragón, L. & Inés Ortega-Cubero, I. (2020) Gardens as science learning contexts across educational stages: Learning assessment based on students’ graphic representations. Frontiers in Psychology 11.
Faber Taylor, A. & Kuo, F. E. (2011). Could exposure to everyday green spaces help treat ADHD? Evidence from children's play settings. Applied Psychology: Health and Well‐Being, 3(3), 281- 290.
Gatto, N.M., Martinez, L.C. & Spruijt-Metz, D. (2017). LA Sprouts randomized controlled nutrition, cooking and gardening programme reduces obesity and metabolic risk in Hispanic/Latino youth. Pediatr Obes., 2(1), 28-37. doi: 10.1111/ijpo.12102
Meredith, G.R., Rakow, D.A., Eldermire, E.R.B., Madsen, C.G., Shelley, S.P. & Sachs, N.A. (2020). Minimum time dose in nature to positively impact the mental health of college-aged students, and how to measure it: A scoping review. Front. Psychol., 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02942
Grimes, K.E. (2021). The Wild Earth Preschool. AHTA Magazine, 49(1), 10-11.
Hanbazaza, M.A., Triador, L., Ball, G.D., Farmer, A., Maximova, K., First Nation, A. & Willows, ND. (2015). The impact of school gardening on Cree children's knowledge and attitudes toward vegetables and fruit. Can J Diet Pract Res., 76(3), 133-9. doi: 10.3148/cjdpr-2015-007
Hollis, A. & Bruno, B. (2021). The effects of horticultural therapy on at-risk youth. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Jung, S.M. & Lee, S. (2021). Effects of interpersonal caring horticultural activities program on interpersonal caring need, aggression, depression and life respect consciousness in high school students. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Kim, HR., Kim, S.O. & Park, S.A. (2021). The effects of horticultural activity program on vegetable preference of elementary school students. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(15), 8100. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18158100
Kim, S.O., Oh, Y.A., & Park, S.A. (2020). Foliage plants improve concentration and emotional condition of elementary school students performing an intensive assignment. HortScience, 55(3), 378-385.
Kim, S.O., Jeong, J.E., Oh, Y.A., Kim, H.R. & Park, S.A. (2021). Comparing concentration levels and emotional states of children using electroencephalography during horticultural and nonhorticultural activities. HortScience, 56(3), 324-329.
Kexiu, L., Elsadek, M., Liu, B. & Fujii, E. (2021). Foliage colors improve relaxation and emotional status of university students from different countries. Heliyon, 7(1), e06131. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06131
Larson, L.R., Mullenbach, L.E., Browning, M.H.E.M., Rigolon, A., Thomsen, J., Metcalf ,E.C., Reigner, N.P., Sharaievska, I., McAnirlin, O., D'Antonio, A., Cloutier, S., Helbich, M. & Labib, S.M. (2022). Greenspace and park use associated with less emotional distress among college students in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Environ Res., 204(Pt D), 112367. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112367
Leavel, M.A., Leiferman, J.A., Gascon, M., Braddick, F., Gonzalez, J.C. & Litt, J.S. (2019). Nature-based social prescribing in urban settings to improve social connectedness and mental well-being: A review. Curr Environ Health Rep., 6(4), 297-308. doi: 10.1007/s40572-019-00251-7
Li, Y.L., Li, F., Gui, Z. & Gao, W.B. (2022). Promoting effect of horticultural therapy on college students' positive psychological quality. Front Psychol., 13, 864147. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.864147
Loso, J., Staub, D., Colby, SE., Olfert, MD., Kattelmann, K., Vilaro, M., Colee, J., Zhou, W., Franzen- Castle, L. & Mathews, AE. (2018). Gardening experience is associated with increased fruit and vegetable intake among first-year college students: A cross-sectional examination. J Acad Nutr Diet., 118(2), 275-283. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2017.09.005
Lovell, R., Husk, K., Bethel, A. & Garside, R. (2014). What are the health and well-being impacts of community gardening for adults and children: A mixed method systematic review protocol. Environmental Evidence, 3, 20.
Mann, J., Gray, T., Truong, S., Brymer, E., Passy, R., Ho, S., Sahlberg, P., Ward, K., Bentsen, P., Curry, C. & Cowper, R. (2022). Getting out of the classroom and into nature: A systematic review of nature-specific outdoor learning on school children's learning and development. Front Public Health, 10, 877058. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.877058
Mann, J., Gray, T., Truong, S., Sahlberg, P., Bentse, P., Passy, R., Ho, S., Ward, K. & Cowper, R.A. (2018). Systematic review protocol to identify the key benefits and efficacy of nature-based learning in outdoor educational settings. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(3), 1199. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18031199
Mayne, S.L., Kelleher, S., Hannan, C., Kelly, M.K., Powell, M., Dalembert, G., McPeak, K., Jenssen, B. & Fiks, A.G. (2022). Neighborhood greenspace and changes in pediatric obesity during COVID-19. Am J Prev Med., S0749-3797(22), 00411-1. doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.07.014
McCormick, R. (2017). Does access to green space impact the mental well-being of children: A review. J Pediatr Nurs., 37, 3-7. doi: 10.1016/j.pedn.2017.08.027
Miller, C.T. (2019). Plant madness: A classroom game using bracketology for horticulture plant identification courses. HortTechnology, 29(2). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04237-18
Nunez, G.H. & Neves da Silva, M. (2021). At-home plant growing kits foster positive student experiences in an online horticulture course. HortTechnology, 31(6). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04882-21
Oh, Y.A., Lee, A.Y., An, K.J. & Park, S.A. (2020). Horticultural therapy program for improving emotional well-being of elementary school students: An observational study. Integr Med Res., 9(1), 37-41. doi: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.01.007
Oh, Y.A., Kim, S.O. & Park, S.A. (2019). Real foliage plants as visual stimuli to improve concentration and attention in elementary students. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 16(5), 796. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16050796
Padial-Ruz, R., Puga-González, M.E., Céspedes-Jiménez, Á. & Cabello-Manrique D. (2021). Determining factors in the use of urban parks that influence the practice of physical activity in children: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(7), 3648. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18073648
Petrou, S. & Korfiatis, K. (2022). Transformations of children’s environmental conceptions through their participation in a school kitchen-garden project. Environmental Education Research, 28(4), 524-544.
Rees-Punia, E., Holloway, A., Knauft, D. & Schmidt, M.D. (2017). Effects of school gardening lessons on elementary school children’s physical activity and sedentary time. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 14(12), 959-964. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2016-0725
Royal Horticulture Society. (2019). Back to nature garden. RKS.org.uk.
Rogers, M., Livstron, I., Roger, B. & Smith, A. (2019). Growing North Minneapolis: Connecting youth and community through garden-based experiential learning. HortTechnology, 30(1). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04308-19
Ruhl, J. & Lordly, D. (2021). University students harvesting the benefits of a garden laboratory. Can J Diet Pract Res,. 82(3), 107-114. doi: 10.3148/cjdpr-2021-004
Sachs, A.L., Coringrato, E., Sprague, N., Turbyfill, A., Tillema, S. & Litt, J. (2022). Rationale, feasibility, and acceptability of the meeting in nature together (MINT) program: A novel nature-based social intervention for loneliness reduction with teen parents and their peers. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(17), 11059. doi: 10.3390/ijerph191711059
Shao, Y., Elsadek, M. & Liu, B. (2020). Horticultural activity: Its contribution to stress recovery and wellbeing for children. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(4), 1229. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17041229
Slagle, T. (2019). Program example: Neurosequential approach to horticultural therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Stluka, S., McCormack, LA., Burdette, L., Dvorak, S., Knight, N., Lindvall, R., Pierce, L., Schoch, J. & Walking, P. (2019). Gardening for health: Using garden coordinators and volunteers to implement rural school and community gardens. Prev Chronic Dis., 16, E156. doi: 10.5888/pcd16.190117
Staub, D., Colby, SE., Olfert, MD., Kattelmann, K., Zhou, W., Horacek, TM., Greene, GW., Radosavljevic, I., Franzen-Castle, L. & Mathews, AE. (2019). A multi-year examination of gardening experience and fruit and vegetable intake during college. Nutrients, 11(9), 2088. doi: 10.3390/nu11092088
Sommerfield, A, McFarland, A, Wliczek, T. & Zajicek, J. (2021). Use of gardening programs as an intervention to increase children’s visual-motor integration. HortTechnology, 31(5). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04887-21
Uchanski, M.E., Grover, K., VanLeeuwen, D. & Goss, R. (2015). Integrating hoop house construction and environmental data interpretation into an undergraduate general education plant science course. HortTechnology, 25, 247-252. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH.25.2.247
van den Berg, A., Warren, JL., McIntosh, A., Hoelscher, D., Ory, MG., Jovanovic, C., Lopez, M., Whittlesey, L., Kirk, A., Walton, C., McKyer, L. & Ranjit, N. (2020). Impact of a gardening and physical activity intervention in Title 1 schools: The TGEG study. Child Obes., 16(S1), S44-S54. doi: 10.1089/chi.2019.0238
van Dijk-Wesselius, J.E., van den Berg, A.E., Maas, J. & Hovinga, D. (2020). Green schoolyards as outdoor learning environments: Barriers and solutions as experienced by primary school teachers. Front Psychol., 10, 2919. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02919
van Lier, L. E., Utter, J., Denny, S., Lucassen, M., Dyson, B. & Clark, T. (2017). Home gardening and the health and well-being of adolescents. Health Promotion Practice, 18(1), 34-43.
Williams, DR., Brule, H., Kelley, SS. & Skinner, EA. (2018). Science in the Learning Gardens (SciLG): A study of students' motivation, achievement, and science identity in low-income middle schools. Int J STEM Educ., 5(1), 8. doi: 10.1186/s40594-018-0104-9
Yates, J. (2022). Cultivating potential at The Children’s Center. AHTA Magazine, 50(1), 12-13.
Zhang, Y., Mavoa, S., Zhao, J., Raphael, D. & Smith, M. (2020). The association between green space and adolescents' mental well-being: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(18), 6640. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17186640
--(2021). UF professor helps autism spectrum adults earn horticulture certification. UF/IFAS BLOGS.
Allah Yar, M. & Kazemi, F. (2020). The role of dish gardens on the physical and neuropsychological improvement of hospitalized children. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 53. doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2020.126713
Baur, J. (2020). Campus community gardens and student health: A case study of a campus garden and student well-being. J Am Coll Health. 5:1-8. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1751174
Berezowitz, C.K., Bontrager, A.B., Yoder, D.A. & Schoeller, D.A. (2015). School gardens enhance cademic performance and dietary outcomes in children. J. Sch. Health, 85(8), 508-518. doi: 10.1111/josh.12278
Bice, M.R., Ball, J., Bickford, N., Bickford, S.H., Hollman, A., Coughlin, A., Dinkel, D., Meyer, R.C. & Ranglack, D.H. (2018). Community gardens: Interactions between communities, schools, and impact on students. The Health Educator 50(1).
Burt, K.G., Lindel, N., Wang, J., Burgermaster, M. A & Fera, J. (2019). A nationwide snapshot of the predictors of and barriers to school garden success. J Nutr Educ Behav., 51(10), 1139-1149. doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2019.06.020
Chiumento, A. Mukherjee, I., Chandna, J., Dutton, C., Rahman, A. & Bristow, K. (2018). A haven of green space: Learning from a pilot pre-post evaluation of a school-based social and therapeutic horticulture intervention with children. BMC Public Health, 18(1), 836. doi: 10.1186/s12889-018-5661-9
Coffino, J.A., Spoor, S.P., Drach, R. & Hormes, J.M. (2021). Food insecurity among graduate students: prevalence and association with depression, anxiety and stress. Public Health Nutr., 24(7), 1889-1894. https:// doi.org/10.1017/s1368980020002001
Currey, C.J., VanDerZanden, A.M. & Mitchell, J.J. (2018). Increasing student awareness and understanding of food security by integrating a service-learning project into an undergraduate hydroponic food production course. HortTechnology, 28(4). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04034-18
Dadvand, P., Nieuwenhuijsen, M.J., Esnaola, M., Forns, J., Basagaña, X., Alvarez-Pedrerol, M., ... & Sunyer, J. (2015). Green spaces and cognitive development in primary schoolchildren. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 112(26), 7937-7942.
Davis, J.N., Martinez, L.C. Spruijt-Metz, D. & Gatto, N.M. (2016). LA Sprouts: A 12-week gardening nutrition, and cooking randomized control trial improves determinants of dietary behaviors. J Nutr Educ Behav., 48(1), 2-11.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2015.08.009
Diehl, L. (2021). The effect of therapeutic horticulture on student wellbeing. AHTA Magazine 49(3), 11.
Elten, M., Benchimol, E.I., Fell, D.B., Kuenzig, M.E., Smith, G., Kaplan, G.G., Chen, H., Crouse, D. & Lavigne, E. (2021). Residential greenspace in childhood reduces risk of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease: A population-based cohort study. Am J Gastroenterol., 116(2), 347-353. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000000990
Etheredge, C.L., Waliczek, T.M. & sudakaran, P.O. (2020). Measuring the economic and educational value of a university-based service-learning floral and plant program. HortTechnology, 30(3). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04528-19
Eugenio-Gozalbo, M., Aragón, L. & Inés Ortega-Cubero, I. (2020) Gardens as science learning contexts across educational stages: Learning assessment based on students’ graphic representations. Frontiers in Psychology 11.
Faber Taylor, A. & Kuo, F. E. (2011). Could exposure to everyday green spaces help treat ADHD? Evidence from children's play settings. Applied Psychology: Health and Well‐Being, 3(3), 281- 290.
Gatto, N.M., Martinez, L.C. & Spruijt-Metz, D. (2017). LA Sprouts randomized controlled nutrition, cooking and gardening programme reduces obesity and metabolic risk in Hispanic/Latino youth. Pediatr Obes., 2(1), 28-37. doi: 10.1111/ijpo.12102
Meredith, G.R., Rakow, D.A., Eldermire, E.R.B., Madsen, C.G., Shelley, S.P. & Sachs, N.A. (2020). Minimum time dose in nature to positively impact the mental health of college-aged students, and how to measure it: A scoping review. Front. Psychol., 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02942
Grimes, K.E. (2021). The Wild Earth Preschool. AHTA Magazine, 49(1), 10-11.
Hanbazaza, M.A., Triador, L., Ball, G.D., Farmer, A., Maximova, K., First Nation, A. & Willows, ND. (2015). The impact of school gardening on Cree children's knowledge and attitudes toward vegetables and fruit. Can J Diet Pract Res., 76(3), 133-9. doi: 10.3148/cjdpr-2015-007
Hollis, A. & Bruno, B. (2021). The effects of horticultural therapy on at-risk youth. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Jung, S.M. & Lee, S. (2021). Effects of interpersonal caring horticultural activities program on interpersonal caring need, aggression, depression and life respect consciousness in high school students. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Kim, HR., Kim, S.O. & Park, S.A. (2021). The effects of horticultural activity program on vegetable preference of elementary school students. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(15), 8100. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18158100
Kim, S.O., Oh, Y.A., & Park, S.A. (2020). Foliage plants improve concentration and emotional condition of elementary school students performing an intensive assignment. HortScience, 55(3), 378-385.
Kim, S.O., Jeong, J.E., Oh, Y.A., Kim, H.R. & Park, S.A. (2021). Comparing concentration levels and emotional states of children using electroencephalography during horticultural and nonhorticultural activities. HortScience, 56(3), 324-329.
Kexiu, L., Elsadek, M., Liu, B. & Fujii, E. (2021). Foliage colors improve relaxation and emotional status of university students from different countries. Heliyon, 7(1), e06131. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06131
Larson, L.R., Mullenbach, L.E., Browning, M.H.E.M., Rigolon, A., Thomsen, J., Metcalf ,E.C., Reigner, N.P., Sharaievska, I., McAnirlin, O., D'Antonio, A., Cloutier, S., Helbich, M. & Labib, S.M. (2022). Greenspace and park use associated with less emotional distress among college students in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Environ Res., 204(Pt D), 112367. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112367
Leavel, M.A., Leiferman, J.A., Gascon, M., Braddick, F., Gonzalez, J.C. & Litt, J.S. (2019). Nature-based social prescribing in urban settings to improve social connectedness and mental well-being: A review. Curr Environ Health Rep., 6(4), 297-308. doi: 10.1007/s40572-019-00251-7
Li, Y.L., Li, F., Gui, Z. & Gao, W.B. (2022). Promoting effect of horticultural therapy on college students' positive psychological quality. Front Psychol., 13, 864147. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.864147
Loso, J., Staub, D., Colby, SE., Olfert, MD., Kattelmann, K., Vilaro, M., Colee, J., Zhou, W., Franzen- Castle, L. & Mathews, AE. (2018). Gardening experience is associated with increased fruit and vegetable intake among first-year college students: A cross-sectional examination. J Acad Nutr Diet., 118(2), 275-283. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2017.09.005
Lovell, R., Husk, K., Bethel, A. & Garside, R. (2014). What are the health and well-being impacts of community gardening for adults and children: A mixed method systematic review protocol. Environmental Evidence, 3, 20.
Mann, J., Gray, T., Truong, S., Brymer, E., Passy, R., Ho, S., Sahlberg, P., Ward, K., Bentsen, P., Curry, C. & Cowper, R. (2022). Getting out of the classroom and into nature: A systematic review of nature-specific outdoor learning on school children's learning and development. Front Public Health, 10, 877058. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.877058
Mann, J., Gray, T., Truong, S., Sahlberg, P., Bentse, P., Passy, R., Ho, S., Ward, K. & Cowper, R.A. (2018). Systematic review protocol to identify the key benefits and efficacy of nature-based learning in outdoor educational settings. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(3), 1199. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18031199
Mayne, S.L., Kelleher, S., Hannan, C., Kelly, M.K., Powell, M., Dalembert, G., McPeak, K., Jenssen, B. & Fiks, A.G. (2022). Neighborhood greenspace and changes in pediatric obesity during COVID-19. Am J Prev Med., S0749-3797(22), 00411-1. doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.07.014
McCormick, R. (2017). Does access to green space impact the mental well-being of children: A review. J Pediatr Nurs., 37, 3-7. doi: 10.1016/j.pedn.2017.08.027
Miller, C.T. (2019). Plant madness: A classroom game using bracketology for horticulture plant identification courses. HortTechnology, 29(2). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04237-18
Nunez, G.H. & Neves da Silva, M. (2021). At-home plant growing kits foster positive student experiences in an online horticulture course. HortTechnology, 31(6). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04882-21
Oh, Y.A., Lee, A.Y., An, K.J. & Park, S.A. (2020). Horticultural therapy program for improving emotional well-being of elementary school students: An observational study. Integr Med Res., 9(1), 37-41. doi: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.01.007
Oh, Y.A., Kim, S.O. & Park, S.A. (2019). Real foliage plants as visual stimuli to improve concentration and attention in elementary students. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 16(5), 796. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16050796
Padial-Ruz, R., Puga-González, M.E., Céspedes-Jiménez, Á. & Cabello-Manrique D. (2021). Determining factors in the use of urban parks that influence the practice of physical activity in children: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(7), 3648. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18073648
Petrou, S. & Korfiatis, K. (2022). Transformations of children’s environmental conceptions through their participation in a school kitchen-garden project. Environmental Education Research, 28(4), 524-544.
Rees-Punia, E., Holloway, A., Knauft, D. & Schmidt, M.D. (2017). Effects of school gardening lessons on elementary school children’s physical activity and sedentary time. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 14(12), 959-964. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2016-0725
Royal Horticulture Society. (2019). Back to nature garden. RKS.org.uk.
Rogers, M., Livstron, I., Roger, B. & Smith, A. (2019). Growing North Minneapolis: Connecting youth and community through garden-based experiential learning. HortTechnology, 30(1). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04308-19
Ruhl, J. & Lordly, D. (2021). University students harvesting the benefits of a garden laboratory. Can J Diet Pract Res,. 82(3), 107-114. doi: 10.3148/cjdpr-2021-004
Sachs, A.L., Coringrato, E., Sprague, N., Turbyfill, A., Tillema, S. & Litt, J. (2022). Rationale, feasibility, and acceptability of the meeting in nature together (MINT) program: A novel nature-based social intervention for loneliness reduction with teen parents and their peers. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(17), 11059. doi: 10.3390/ijerph191711059
Shao, Y., Elsadek, M. & Liu, B. (2020). Horticultural activity: Its contribution to stress recovery and wellbeing for children. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(4), 1229. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17041229
Slagle, T. (2019). Program example: Neurosequential approach to horticultural therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Stluka, S., McCormack, LA., Burdette, L., Dvorak, S., Knight, N., Lindvall, R., Pierce, L., Schoch, J. & Walking, P. (2019). Gardening for health: Using garden coordinators and volunteers to implement rural school and community gardens. Prev Chronic Dis., 16, E156. doi: 10.5888/pcd16.190117
Staub, D., Colby, SE., Olfert, MD., Kattelmann, K., Zhou, W., Horacek, TM., Greene, GW., Radosavljevic, I., Franzen-Castle, L. & Mathews, AE. (2019). A multi-year examination of gardening experience and fruit and vegetable intake during college. Nutrients, 11(9), 2088. doi: 10.3390/nu11092088
Sommerfield, A, McFarland, A, Wliczek, T. & Zajicek, J. (2021). Use of gardening programs as an intervention to increase children’s visual-motor integration. HortTechnology, 31(5). https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH04887-21
Uchanski, M.E., Grover, K., VanLeeuwen, D. & Goss, R. (2015). Integrating hoop house construction and environmental data interpretation into an undergraduate general education plant science course. HortTechnology, 25, 247-252. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTTECH.25.2.247
van den Berg, A., Warren, JL., McIntosh, A., Hoelscher, D., Ory, MG., Jovanovic, C., Lopez, M., Whittlesey, L., Kirk, A., Walton, C., McKyer, L. & Ranjit, N. (2020). Impact of a gardening and physical activity intervention in Title 1 schools: The TGEG study. Child Obes., 16(S1), S44-S54. doi: 10.1089/chi.2019.0238
van Dijk-Wesselius, J.E., van den Berg, A.E., Maas, J. & Hovinga, D. (2020). Green schoolyards as outdoor learning environments: Barriers and solutions as experienced by primary school teachers. Front Psychol., 10, 2919. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02919
van Lier, L. E., Utter, J., Denny, S., Lucassen, M., Dyson, B. & Clark, T. (2017). Home gardening and the health and well-being of adolescents. Health Promotion Practice, 18(1), 34-43.
Williams, DR., Brule, H., Kelley, SS. & Skinner, EA. (2018). Science in the Learning Gardens (SciLG): A study of students' motivation, achievement, and science identity in low-income middle schools. Int J STEM Educ., 5(1), 8. doi: 10.1186/s40594-018-0104-9
Yates, J. (2022). Cultivating potential at The Children’s Center. AHTA Magazine, 50(1), 12-13.
Zhang, Y., Mavoa, S., Zhao, J., Raphael, D. & Smith, M. (2020). The association between green space and adolescents' mental well-being: A systematic review. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(18), 6640. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17186640
--(2021). UF professor helps autism spectrum adults earn horticulture certification. UF/IFAS BLOGS.
Examples of CHILDREN & YOUTH POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
A Day at Forest School demonstrates outdoor learning, importance of access to nature.
Anne and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago uses a garden play area Crown Sky Garden to deliver treatment and services to pediatric patients.
Gardening with kids/dinosaur garden/teaching children the joy of gardening.
Hershey School’s Sensory Garden engages students including trauma informed theory.
Junior Master Gardener Learn, Grow, Eat & Go program is an interdisciplinary program with academic focus, gardening, nutrient-dense food experiences & physical activity.
Monarch School of New England uses therapeutic gardens for learning & vocational training for elementary & high school students who have significant special needs.
National Children & Youth Garden Symposium annual event is hosted by the American Horticultural Society
National Garden Clubs’ Children & Youth Programs include youth pollinator gardens, youth garden clubs, ecology warriors workbook, contests, scholarships & grants.
North Carolina Botanical Garden’s Youth & Family Programs include nature activities, camp flytrap, Little Sprouts preschool program, family workshops, children’s wonder garden & Nature Play at Home guide.
Pacific Quest outdoor behavioral health care program for adolescents uses neurodevelopmental approach, horticultural therapy and nature connections.
The Children’s Center @ The Centers for Exceptional Children in Winston-Salem, NC delivers horticultural therapy and nature-based programs to children with physical disabilities, orthopedic challenges & other health issues.
The Wild Earth Preschool at the Dallas Zoo provides nature experiences for this age group.
Urban Roots for at-risk youth in North Carolina has a vocational horticultural therapy program partially funded through Campaign for Black Male Achievement.
Seed your Future organization seeks to inspire and educate students about horticulture careers, with career exploration, scholarships, summer camps, green career week, & DIY plant videos.
Youth Programming Toolkit from Children & Nature organization, Outdoor Foundation, Search Institute, and Fresh Tracks provides resources re nature-based programming & youth.
Anne and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago uses a garden play area Crown Sky Garden to deliver treatment and services to pediatric patients.
Gardening with kids/dinosaur garden/teaching children the joy of gardening.
Hershey School’s Sensory Garden engages students including trauma informed theory.
Junior Master Gardener Learn, Grow, Eat & Go program is an interdisciplinary program with academic focus, gardening, nutrient-dense food experiences & physical activity.
Monarch School of New England uses therapeutic gardens for learning & vocational training for elementary & high school students who have significant special needs.
National Children & Youth Garden Symposium annual event is hosted by the American Horticultural Society
National Garden Clubs’ Children & Youth Programs include youth pollinator gardens, youth garden clubs, ecology warriors workbook, contests, scholarships & grants.
North Carolina Botanical Garden’s Youth & Family Programs include nature activities, camp flytrap, Little Sprouts preschool program, family workshops, children’s wonder garden & Nature Play at Home guide.
Pacific Quest outdoor behavioral health care program for adolescents uses neurodevelopmental approach, horticultural therapy and nature connections.
The Children’s Center @ The Centers for Exceptional Children in Winston-Salem, NC delivers horticultural therapy and nature-based programs to children with physical disabilities, orthopedic challenges & other health issues.
The Wild Earth Preschool at the Dallas Zoo provides nature experiences for this age group.
Urban Roots for at-risk youth in North Carolina has a vocational horticultural therapy program partially funded through Campaign for Black Male Achievement.
Seed your Future organization seeks to inspire and educate students about horticulture careers, with career exploration, scholarships, summer camps, green career week, & DIY plant videos.
Youth Programming Toolkit from Children & Nature organization, Outdoor Foundation, Search Institute, and Fresh Tracks provides resources re nature-based programming & youth.
Videos & webinars oN CHILDREN & YOUTH POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Agristarts video introduces a program with Orange County Public Schools ESE Transition where horticulture education & training are available; greenhouse maintenance & plant production.
Big Green resource database.
Healing Gardens: Dell Children’s Medical Center has 7 different gardens on the campus with a focus on behavioral health, lifestyle changes, sensory garden, maze, labyrinth & nature connections.
Healing Garden Virtual Tour – Golisano Children’s Hospital of SW Florida showcases the outdoor garden built in 2017.
Life Lab’s Middle School Social Science Lessons developed for garden-based nutrition education and
California standards-based social studies curriculum includes units on Europe in the garden, U.S. Westward expansion in the garden, with specific units for educators and families.
New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station & Rutgers University Gardening with Youth website offers resources with online links on starting school gardens, and webinars (starting an indoor garden, 4-H Victory Garden STEP club), gardening activities for youth, & family fun pages.
Big Green resource database.
Healing Gardens: Dell Children’s Medical Center has 7 different gardens on the campus with a focus on behavioral health, lifestyle changes, sensory garden, maze, labyrinth & nature connections.
Healing Garden Virtual Tour – Golisano Children’s Hospital of SW Florida showcases the outdoor garden built in 2017.
Life Lab’s Middle School Social Science Lessons developed for garden-based nutrition education and
California standards-based social studies curriculum includes units on Europe in the garden, U.S. Westward expansion in the garden, with specific units for educators and families.
New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station & Rutgers University Gardening with Youth website offers resources with online links on starting school gardens, and webinars (starting an indoor garden, 4-H Victory Garden STEP club), gardening activities for youth, & family fun pages.
Related organizations
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming Dec 2021; revised by Lesley Fleming, Bree Stark Nov 2022
MIGRANT & REFUGEE POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
There has been an increase in programs addressing migrant and refugee issues, reflective of increasing numbers of migrants worldwide. As of 2017, over 68.5 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes, with 25.4 million of this group being classified as refugees (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 2018; Nadeau, 2019). The UN Refugee Agency defines a refugee as a person who has fled an armed conflict or persecution and who is protected by international law, whereas a migrant chooses to move to a different place mainly to improve their living conditions. According to the UN Refugee Convention, if a migrant seeks asylum in a country and is found to be entitled to a permanent residence permit, they have the status of refugee.
Programs with a horticulture focus include vocational horticulture training, community gardens welcoming migrants & refugees, ecovillage settings for health interventions (Pousen et al., 2020), food action initiatives, and social/horticulture programming. Researcher Palsdottier & colleagues have written extensively on such programs (2014, 2018, 2020, 2021), linking trauma & other health challenges to migrant & refugee experiences, with references to trauma/PTSD experienced by war veterans. For both populations, the restorative power of nature is being used for health interventions. A recent call for studies to investigate nature’s role with regard to the mental health of refugees as well as their social interaction with locals reflects current focus of research (Poulsen et al., 2020). A variety of horticulture-focused strategies are addressing a complex web of health goals: integration of newcomers to communities, provision of safe community gathering spots, specifically community gardens & community kitchens, personal growth & post-traumatic growth (PTG), reduction of cultural & language barriers, and development of sense of self, trusting relationships & respect for human beings. Evidence of numerous community gardens for refugees & migrants suggests a growing interest for this type of programming. A large number of articles are available through google search, identifying refugee and gardening programs that currently exist.
There has been an increase in programs addressing migrant and refugee issues, reflective of increasing numbers of migrants worldwide. As of 2017, over 68.5 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes, with 25.4 million of this group being classified as refugees (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 2018; Nadeau, 2019). The UN Refugee Agency defines a refugee as a person who has fled an armed conflict or persecution and who is protected by international law, whereas a migrant chooses to move to a different place mainly to improve their living conditions. According to the UN Refugee Convention, if a migrant seeks asylum in a country and is found to be entitled to a permanent residence permit, they have the status of refugee.
Programs with a horticulture focus include vocational horticulture training, community gardens welcoming migrants & refugees, ecovillage settings for health interventions (Pousen et al., 2020), food action initiatives, and social/horticulture programming. Researcher Palsdottier & colleagues have written extensively on such programs (2014, 2018, 2020, 2021), linking trauma & other health challenges to migrant & refugee experiences, with references to trauma/PTSD experienced by war veterans. For both populations, the restorative power of nature is being used for health interventions. A recent call for studies to investigate nature’s role with regard to the mental health of refugees as well as their social interaction with locals reflects current focus of research (Poulsen et al., 2020). A variety of horticulture-focused strategies are addressing a complex web of health goals: integration of newcomers to communities, provision of safe community gathering spots, specifically community gardens & community kitchens, personal growth & post-traumatic growth (PTG), reduction of cultural & language barriers, and development of sense of self, trusting relationships & respect for human beings. Evidence of numerous community gardens for refugees & migrants suggests a growing interest for this type of programming. A large number of articles are available through google search, identifying refugee and gardening programs that currently exist.
Key organizations
Catholic Relief Services
Local community gardens & refugee services
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
Local community gardens & refugee services
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
Books, journals & epublications ON MIGRANT & REFUGEE POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Bosch, M., & Bird, W. (Ed.). (2018). Oxford textbook nature and public health: The role of nature in improving the health of a population. Oxford University Press
Cook, E.P. (2015). Understanding people in context: The ecological perspective in counseling. John Wiley and Sons.
Griffin, M. (2017). Reconstructing identity with urban community agriculture: How refugees confront
displacement, food insecurity, and othering through community farming. (Unpublished master's thesis). University of North Texas.
Hajdukowski-Ahmed, M. (Ed.). (2013). Not born a refugee woman: Contesting identities, rethinking practices. Berghahn Books.
Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies
Tsu, C. (2013). Garden of the world: Asian immigrants and the making of agriculture in California’s
Santa Clara Valley. Oxford Press.
United Nations Refugee Agency (2018). Global trends: Forced displacement in 2017.
Cook, E.P. (2015). Understanding people in context: The ecological perspective in counseling. John Wiley and Sons.
Griffin, M. (2017). Reconstructing identity with urban community agriculture: How refugees confront
displacement, food insecurity, and othering through community farming. (Unpublished master's thesis). University of North Texas.
Hajdukowski-Ahmed, M. (Ed.). (2013). Not born a refugee woman: Contesting identities, rethinking practices. Berghahn Books.
Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies
Tsu, C. (2013). Garden of the world: Asian immigrants and the making of agriculture in California’s
Santa Clara Valley. Oxford Press.
United Nations Refugee Agency (2018). Global trends: Forced displacement in 2017.
Research & articles on MIGRANT & REFUGEE POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Recently published selected research & articles:
Bates, D., Burman, E., Ejike-King, L. and Rufyiri, C. (2012). Healthy transitions: A community-based participatory research approach with Burundians with refugee status. Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement, 16, (3): 153-174.
Berry, J.W. (2010). Mobility and acculturation. In S.C. Carr (Ed.), The Psychology of Global Mobility (pp. 193- 210). Springer.
Biglin, J. (2020). Embodied and sensory experiences of therapeutic space: Refugee place-making within an urban allotment. Health & Place 62, 102309. doi.org/10.1016/j. healthplace.2020.102309
Bishop, R. & Purcell, E. (2013). The value of an allotment group for refugees. Br. J. Occup. Ther., 76, 264-269. doi: 10.4276/030802213X13706169932824
Brabec, E. (2021). ‘If I have land, I feed my family’ – refugee resettlement through community
gardening in Seattle case study. Women & Migration.
Chan, J., DuBois, B., & Tidball, K. G. (2015). Refuges of local resilience: Community gardens in post-Sandy New York City. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 14(3), 625-635.
Ekstam, E., Pálsdóttir, AM. & Asaba., E. (2021) Migrants’ experiences of a nature-based vocational rehabilitation programme in relation to place, occupation, health and everyday life. Journal of Occupational Science 28(1), 144-158. doi: 10.1080/14427591.2021.1880964
Emery, M.R. & Hurley, P.T. (2016). Ethnobiology in the city: Embracing the urban ecological moment.
Journal of Ethnobiology, 36(4), 807-819. doi:10.2993/0278-0771- 36.4.807
Garcia Polanco, V. (2020). Equity and inclusion in the garden: Factors that facilitate immigrants and
refugees participation in a community garden network in Lansing, MI. Thesis: Michigan State University.
Gentin, S., Pitkänen, K., Chondromatidou, A.M., Præstholm, S., Dolling, A. & Palsdottir, A.M. (2019). Nature-based integration of immigrants in Europe: A review. Urban Forestry Urban Greening, 43, 126379. doi: 10.1016/j.ufug.2019.126379
Gentin, S., Chondromatidou, A. M., Pitkänen, K., Dolling, A., Præstholm, S., & Pálsdóttir, A. M. (2018). Defining nature-based integration – perspectives and practices from the Nordic countries. Reports of the Finnish Environment Institute, 16. http://hdl.handle.net/10138/236244
Gerber, M.M., Callahan, J.L., Moyer, D.N., Connally, M.L., Holtz, P.M., & Janis, B.M. (2017). Nepali Bhutanese refugees reap support through community gardening. International Perspectives in Psychology: Research, Practice, Consultation, 6(1), 17.
Giacco, D., Laxhman, N. & Priebe, S. (2018). Prevalence of and risk factors for mental disorders in refugees. Semin Cell Dev Biol., 77, 144-152. doi: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.11.030
Gingell, T., Murray, K., Correa-Velez, I. & Gallegos, D. (2022). Determinants of food security among
people from refugee backgrounds resettled in high-income countries: A systematic review and thematic synthesis. PLoS One, 17(6), e0268830. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268830
Harris, N., Minniss, FR. & Somerset, S. (2014). Connecting with a new country through community food gardening. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 11(9), 9202-16. doi: 10.3390/ijerph110909202
Hartwig, K.A., & Mason, M. (2016). Community gardens for refugee and immigrant communities as a means of health promotion. Journal of Community Health, 41(6), 1153-1159.
Heilmayr, D., Reiss, N. & Buskirk, M. (2020). Community gardens cultivate positive experiences for refugees. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 30(1), 25-35.
Kartal D., Alkemade N., Eisenbruch M. & Kissane D. (2018). Traumatic exposure, acculturative stress and cultural orientation: The influence on PTSD, depressive and anxiety symptoms among refugees. Soc. Psychiatry Psychiatr. Epidemiol., 53, 931-941. doi: 10.1007/s00127-018-1532-z
Mai, A.T. (2019). Responding to the emotional needs of resettled refugees in the context of
community gardens. Thesis: University of Texas. https://rc.library.uta.edu/uta-ir/handle/10106/28118
Mejia, A., Bhattacharya, M. & Miraglia, J. (2020). Village Community Garden & Learning Center.
Community gardening as a way to build cross-cultural community resilience in intersectionally diverse gardeners: Community-based participatory research and campus-community-partnered proposal. JMIR Res Protoc., 9(10), e21218. doi: 10.2196/21218
Millican, J., Perkins, C. & Adam-Bradford, A. (2019). Gardening in displacement: The benefits of
cultivating in crisis, Journal of Refugee Studies, 32(3), 351-371. https://doi.org/10.1093/jrs/fey033
Mmako, N.J., Capetola, T. & Henderson-Wilson, C. (2019). Sowing social inclusion for marginalized
residents of a social housing development through a community garden. Health Promotions Journal Australia, 30(3), 350-358. doi: 10.1002/hpja.225
Nadeau, M. (2019). The role of horticultural therapy in the treatment of refugees with post-traumatic stress disorder. Senior Thesis. Liberty University. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1903&context=honors
Nisbet, C., Lestrat, K.E. & Vatanparast, H. (2022). Food security interventions among refugees around
the globe: A scoping review. Nutrients, 14(3), 522. doi: 10.3390/nu14030522
Nur, H.A., Atoloye, A.T., Wengreen, H., Archuleta, M., Savoie-Roskos, M.R., Wille, C. & Jewkes, M.A.
(2021). Scoping review and assessing the evidence for nutrition education delivery strategies for refugees in high-income countries. Adv Nutr., 12(6), 2508-2524. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmab080
Ogolla, E. & John, C. (2020). Innovative ‘keyhole’ gardens help refugees improve their nutrition. UNHCR. https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/news/stories/2020/10/5f8979ca4/innovative-keyhole-gardens-help-refugees-improve-nutrition.html
Pálsdóttir, A., Persson, D., Persson, B. & Grahn, P. (2014). The journey of recovery and empowerment
embraced by nature—Clients’ perspectives on nature-based rehabilitation in relation to the role of the natural environment. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health., 11, 7094–7115. doi: 10.3390/ijerph110707094
Pálsdóttir, A.M., Grahn, P. & Persson, D. (2014). Changes in experienced value of everyday occupations after nature-based vocational rehabilitation. Scand. J. Occup. Ther., 21, 58-68. doi: 10.3109/11038128.2013.832794
Palsdottier, AM., Shahard, A. & Ekstam, L. (2018). Natural establishment: Nature-based vocational rehabilitation for migrants participating in the National Scheme of Integration. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(2), 57-70.
Palsdottier, AM., O’Brien, L., Varning Poulsen, D. & Dolling, A. (2021). Exploring a migrant’s sense of belonging through participation in a horticultural vocational training program in Sweden. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1), 10-24.
Perkinis, C., Adam-Bradford, A. & Tomkins, M. (2017). Thriving spaces: Greening refugee settlements.
Forced Migration Review, 55, 46-48.
Poulsen, D.V., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Christensn, S.I., Wilson, L., & Uldall, S.W. (2020). Therapeutic nature activities: A step toward the labor market for traumatized refugees. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(20), 7542. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17207542
Rodriguez, C., Venegas de la Torrem, U., Hecker, M.D.L.P., V., Laing, V., & Larouche, R.(2022).
The relationship between nature and immigrants' integration, wellbeing and physical activity: A scoping review. J Immigr Minor Health. doi: 10.1007/s10903-022-01339-3
Sanchez, E., Gorgo-Gouravitch, M. & Stivers, L. (2019). Creating a sense of belonging for Hispanic
farmers and farmworkers in agricultural programming. HortTechnology, 29(4).
Sahyoun, NR., Jamaluddine, Z., Choufani, J., Mesmar,. S, Reese-Masterson, A. & Ghattas, H. (2019). A mixed-methods evaluation of community-based healthy kitchens as social enterprises for refugee women. BMC Public Health, 19(1), 1590. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-7950-3
Sangalang, C.C., Becerra, D., Mitchell, F.M., Lechuga-Peña, S., Lopez, K., & Kim, I. (2019). Trauma, post-migration stress, and mental health: A comparative analysis of refugees and immigrants in the United States. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 21(5), 909–919. doi:10.100710903-018- 0826-2 PMID:30244330
Sanou, D, O’Reilly, E, Ngnie-Teta, I., Batal, M., Mondain, N., Andrew, C., Newbold, BK. & Bourgeault,
IL. (2013). Acculturation and nutritional health of immigrants to Canada: A scoping review. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 16(1), 24-36.
Shan, H. & Walter, P. (2015). Growing everyday multiculturalism: Practice-based learning of Chinese immigrants through community gardens in Canada. Adult Education Quarterly, 65(1), 19-34.
Stodolska, M., Peters, K. & Horolets, A. (2017). Immigrants ‘adaptation and interracial/interethnic interactions in natural environments. Leisure Science, 39(6), 475-491. https://doi.org/10.1080/01490400.2016.1213676
Strunk, C. & Richardson, M. (2019). Cultivating belonging: Refugees, urban gardens, and placemaking
in the Midwest, USA. Social & Cultural Geography, 20(6), 826-848.
Tenney, S. (2021). Youth farm helps refugees grow food, community. Marion Polk Food Share.
https://marionpolkfoodshare.org/refugees-grow-food-community/
Trauth, J. (2018). A counseling model for refugees rooted in ecological theory. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(2), 15-22.
Trauth, J.N. (2016). An evaluation of the St. Leo Burundi Refugee Ministry Program (Unpublished Doctoral dissertation). University of Cincinnati.
Tsu, C. (2021). Refugee community gardens and the politics of self-help. Amerasia Journal, 47(1), 96-
111. https://doi.org/10.1080/00447471.2021.1973943
Turner, B. (n.d.). 3 ways community gardens often exclude migrants and refugees—and how to turn this around. The Conversation., https://theconversation.com/3-ways-community-gardens-often-exclude-migrants-and-refugees-and-how-to-turn-this-around-164547
Uldall, S.W., Poulsen, D.V., Christensen, S.I., Wilson, L. & Carlsson, J. (2022). Mixing job training with
nature-based therapy shows promise for increasing labor market affiliation among newly arrived refugees: Results from a Danish case series study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(8), 4850. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19084850
United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs. (2019). The number of international migrants reaches 272 million, continuing an upward trend in all world regions, says UN.
https://www.un.org/development/desa/en/news/population/international-migrant-stock-2019.html
Varning Poulsen, D., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Wiingaard Uldall, S., Christensen S.A., & Wilson, L. (2020). Therapeutic nature activities: A step towards the labour market for traumatized refugees. Special issue: The health and wellbeing of migrant populations. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17, 7542. doi:10.3390/ijerph17207542
Wood, J.M., Booth, A.O., Margerison, C. & Worsley, A. (2021). What factors are associated with food
security among recently arrived refugees resettling in high-income countries? A scoping review. Public Health Nutr., 24(13), 4313-4327. doi: 10.1017/S1368980021002925
Yakushko, O. (2010). Stress and coping in the lives of recent immigrants: A grounded theory model. International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling, 32, 256–273. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10447-010-9105-1
Bates, D., Burman, E., Ejike-King, L. and Rufyiri, C. (2012). Healthy transitions: A community-based participatory research approach with Burundians with refugee status. Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement, 16, (3): 153-174.
Berry, J.W. (2010). Mobility and acculturation. In S.C. Carr (Ed.), The Psychology of Global Mobility (pp. 193- 210). Springer.
Biglin, J. (2020). Embodied and sensory experiences of therapeutic space: Refugee place-making within an urban allotment. Health & Place 62, 102309. doi.org/10.1016/j. healthplace.2020.102309
Bishop, R. & Purcell, E. (2013). The value of an allotment group for refugees. Br. J. Occup. Ther., 76, 264-269. doi: 10.4276/030802213X13706169932824
Brabec, E. (2021). ‘If I have land, I feed my family’ – refugee resettlement through community
gardening in Seattle case study. Women & Migration.
Chan, J., DuBois, B., & Tidball, K. G. (2015). Refuges of local resilience: Community gardens in post-Sandy New York City. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 14(3), 625-635.
Ekstam, E., Pálsdóttir, AM. & Asaba., E. (2021) Migrants’ experiences of a nature-based vocational rehabilitation programme in relation to place, occupation, health and everyday life. Journal of Occupational Science 28(1), 144-158. doi: 10.1080/14427591.2021.1880964
Emery, M.R. & Hurley, P.T. (2016). Ethnobiology in the city: Embracing the urban ecological moment.
Journal of Ethnobiology, 36(4), 807-819. doi:10.2993/0278-0771- 36.4.807
Garcia Polanco, V. (2020). Equity and inclusion in the garden: Factors that facilitate immigrants and
refugees participation in a community garden network in Lansing, MI. Thesis: Michigan State University.
Gentin, S., Pitkänen, K., Chondromatidou, A.M., Præstholm, S., Dolling, A. & Palsdottir, A.M. (2019). Nature-based integration of immigrants in Europe: A review. Urban Forestry Urban Greening, 43, 126379. doi: 10.1016/j.ufug.2019.126379
Gentin, S., Chondromatidou, A. M., Pitkänen, K., Dolling, A., Præstholm, S., & Pálsdóttir, A. M. (2018). Defining nature-based integration – perspectives and practices from the Nordic countries. Reports of the Finnish Environment Institute, 16. http://hdl.handle.net/10138/236244
Gerber, M.M., Callahan, J.L., Moyer, D.N., Connally, M.L., Holtz, P.M., & Janis, B.M. (2017). Nepali Bhutanese refugees reap support through community gardening. International Perspectives in Psychology: Research, Practice, Consultation, 6(1), 17.
Giacco, D., Laxhman, N. & Priebe, S. (2018). Prevalence of and risk factors for mental disorders in refugees. Semin Cell Dev Biol., 77, 144-152. doi: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.11.030
Gingell, T., Murray, K., Correa-Velez, I. & Gallegos, D. (2022). Determinants of food security among
people from refugee backgrounds resettled in high-income countries: A systematic review and thematic synthesis. PLoS One, 17(6), e0268830. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268830
Harris, N., Minniss, FR. & Somerset, S. (2014). Connecting with a new country through community food gardening. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 11(9), 9202-16. doi: 10.3390/ijerph110909202
Hartwig, K.A., & Mason, M. (2016). Community gardens for refugee and immigrant communities as a means of health promotion. Journal of Community Health, 41(6), 1153-1159.
Heilmayr, D., Reiss, N. & Buskirk, M. (2020). Community gardens cultivate positive experiences for refugees. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 30(1), 25-35.
Kartal D., Alkemade N., Eisenbruch M. & Kissane D. (2018). Traumatic exposure, acculturative stress and cultural orientation: The influence on PTSD, depressive and anxiety symptoms among refugees. Soc. Psychiatry Psychiatr. Epidemiol., 53, 931-941. doi: 10.1007/s00127-018-1532-z
Mai, A.T. (2019). Responding to the emotional needs of resettled refugees in the context of
community gardens. Thesis: University of Texas. https://rc.library.uta.edu/uta-ir/handle/10106/28118
Mejia, A., Bhattacharya, M. & Miraglia, J. (2020). Village Community Garden & Learning Center.
Community gardening as a way to build cross-cultural community resilience in intersectionally diverse gardeners: Community-based participatory research and campus-community-partnered proposal. JMIR Res Protoc., 9(10), e21218. doi: 10.2196/21218
Millican, J., Perkins, C. & Adam-Bradford, A. (2019). Gardening in displacement: The benefits of
cultivating in crisis, Journal of Refugee Studies, 32(3), 351-371. https://doi.org/10.1093/jrs/fey033
Mmako, N.J., Capetola, T. & Henderson-Wilson, C. (2019). Sowing social inclusion for marginalized
residents of a social housing development through a community garden. Health Promotions Journal Australia, 30(3), 350-358. doi: 10.1002/hpja.225
Nadeau, M. (2019). The role of horticultural therapy in the treatment of refugees with post-traumatic stress disorder. Senior Thesis. Liberty University. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1903&context=honors
Nisbet, C., Lestrat, K.E. & Vatanparast, H. (2022). Food security interventions among refugees around
the globe: A scoping review. Nutrients, 14(3), 522. doi: 10.3390/nu14030522
Nur, H.A., Atoloye, A.T., Wengreen, H., Archuleta, M., Savoie-Roskos, M.R., Wille, C. & Jewkes, M.A.
(2021). Scoping review and assessing the evidence for nutrition education delivery strategies for refugees in high-income countries. Adv Nutr., 12(6), 2508-2524. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmab080
Ogolla, E. & John, C. (2020). Innovative ‘keyhole’ gardens help refugees improve their nutrition. UNHCR. https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/news/stories/2020/10/5f8979ca4/innovative-keyhole-gardens-help-refugees-improve-nutrition.html
Pálsdóttir, A., Persson, D., Persson, B. & Grahn, P. (2014). The journey of recovery and empowerment
embraced by nature—Clients’ perspectives on nature-based rehabilitation in relation to the role of the natural environment. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health., 11, 7094–7115. doi: 10.3390/ijerph110707094
Pálsdóttir, A.M., Grahn, P. & Persson, D. (2014). Changes in experienced value of everyday occupations after nature-based vocational rehabilitation. Scand. J. Occup. Ther., 21, 58-68. doi: 10.3109/11038128.2013.832794
Palsdottier, AM., Shahard, A. & Ekstam, L. (2018). Natural establishment: Nature-based vocational rehabilitation for migrants participating in the National Scheme of Integration. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(2), 57-70.
Palsdottier, AM., O’Brien, L., Varning Poulsen, D. & Dolling, A. (2021). Exploring a migrant’s sense of belonging through participation in a horticultural vocational training program in Sweden. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1), 10-24.
Perkinis, C., Adam-Bradford, A. & Tomkins, M. (2017). Thriving spaces: Greening refugee settlements.
Forced Migration Review, 55, 46-48.
Poulsen, D.V., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Christensn, S.I., Wilson, L., & Uldall, S.W. (2020). Therapeutic nature activities: A step toward the labor market for traumatized refugees. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(20), 7542. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17207542
Rodriguez, C., Venegas de la Torrem, U., Hecker, M.D.L.P., V., Laing, V., & Larouche, R.(2022).
The relationship between nature and immigrants' integration, wellbeing and physical activity: A scoping review. J Immigr Minor Health. doi: 10.1007/s10903-022-01339-3
Sanchez, E., Gorgo-Gouravitch, M. & Stivers, L. (2019). Creating a sense of belonging for Hispanic
farmers and farmworkers in agricultural programming. HortTechnology, 29(4).
Sahyoun, NR., Jamaluddine, Z., Choufani, J., Mesmar,. S, Reese-Masterson, A. & Ghattas, H. (2019). A mixed-methods evaluation of community-based healthy kitchens as social enterprises for refugee women. BMC Public Health, 19(1), 1590. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-7950-3
Sangalang, C.C., Becerra, D., Mitchell, F.M., Lechuga-Peña, S., Lopez, K., & Kim, I. (2019). Trauma, post-migration stress, and mental health: A comparative analysis of refugees and immigrants in the United States. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 21(5), 909–919. doi:10.100710903-018- 0826-2 PMID:30244330
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IL. (2013). Acculturation and nutritional health of immigrants to Canada: A scoping review. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 16(1), 24-36.
Shan, H. & Walter, P. (2015). Growing everyday multiculturalism: Practice-based learning of Chinese immigrants through community gardens in Canada. Adult Education Quarterly, 65(1), 19-34.
Stodolska, M., Peters, K. & Horolets, A. (2017). Immigrants ‘adaptation and interracial/interethnic interactions in natural environments. Leisure Science, 39(6), 475-491. https://doi.org/10.1080/01490400.2016.1213676
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in the Midwest, USA. Social & Cultural Geography, 20(6), 826-848.
Tenney, S. (2021). Youth farm helps refugees grow food, community. Marion Polk Food Share.
https://marionpolkfoodshare.org/refugees-grow-food-community/
Trauth, J. (2018). A counseling model for refugees rooted in ecological theory. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 28(2), 15-22.
Trauth, J.N. (2016). An evaluation of the St. Leo Burundi Refugee Ministry Program (Unpublished Doctoral dissertation). University of Cincinnati.
Tsu, C. (2021). Refugee community gardens and the politics of self-help. Amerasia Journal, 47(1), 96-
111. https://doi.org/10.1080/00447471.2021.1973943
Turner, B. (n.d.). 3 ways community gardens often exclude migrants and refugees—and how to turn this around. The Conversation., https://theconversation.com/3-ways-community-gardens-often-exclude-migrants-and-refugees-and-how-to-turn-this-around-164547
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Examples of MIGRANT & REFUGEE POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Community garden allows refugees to grow native produce. Louisville, with one of the largest refugee populations in the US, has Common Earth Gardens which offers agricultural program, garden plots, and food donations to food insecure.
Denver Urban Gardens Yu Meh Community Farmer Training Program & Project Worthmore provide sustainable farming education with a focus on community food security.
Folkuniveritetet Vaxjo garden in Sweden is used as a rehabilitation site, language center, social setting, & safe location for multicultural exchange.
Freedom from Torture community garden, started in 1992 in Scotland, is part of the Natural Growth Project combining horticulture with psychotherapy.
Galilee Lutheran Church garden for refugees in Roseville, MN helps people grow food, and be proud of their own work, changing the pattern of always receiving help.
Govan Community project, Scotland supports refugee & asylum seekers locally, hosting a woman’s group, gardening & other garden-based activities.
Hillside Paradise Parking Plots led by World Relief Seattle, an immigrant & refugee resettlement organization, created this place to grow food, socialize for people from 18 different countries.
Lemon Tree Trust transforms refugee camps one garden at a time and supports agricultural businesses.
Neighbor’s Field in rural Georgia helps refugees heal from their experiences and plant a garden, grow food and use this as a therapeutic activity.
New Lands Farm in New England works with newly resettled refugees, many of whom have significant agricultural experience & who are able to plant crops in this setting, supported by Lutheran Social Services.
New Roots for Refugees program at Cultivate Kansas City 4 year farm training program with many graduates going on to own farm-based businesses.
Socially aware gardens at Jerusalem Botanical Gardens uses their public garden as part of social programming, including Plants Grow People, with its rehabilitation focus for holocaust survivors, war veterans and immigrants.
Tapestry Farms nonprofit empowers refugees with urban gardening and support services in Iowa.
Transplanting Traditions community farm provides agricultural & entrepreneurial education to refugee farmers at this incubator site in Chapel Hill, NC.
Denver Urban Gardens Yu Meh Community Farmer Training Program & Project Worthmore provide sustainable farming education with a focus on community food security.
Folkuniveritetet Vaxjo garden in Sweden is used as a rehabilitation site, language center, social setting, & safe location for multicultural exchange.
Freedom from Torture community garden, started in 1992 in Scotland, is part of the Natural Growth Project combining horticulture with psychotherapy.
Galilee Lutheran Church garden for refugees in Roseville, MN helps people grow food, and be proud of their own work, changing the pattern of always receiving help.
Govan Community project, Scotland supports refugee & asylum seekers locally, hosting a woman’s group, gardening & other garden-based activities.
Hillside Paradise Parking Plots led by World Relief Seattle, an immigrant & refugee resettlement organization, created this place to grow food, socialize for people from 18 different countries.
Lemon Tree Trust transforms refugee camps one garden at a time and supports agricultural businesses.
Neighbor’s Field in rural Georgia helps refugees heal from their experiences and plant a garden, grow food and use this as a therapeutic activity.
New Lands Farm in New England works with newly resettled refugees, many of whom have significant agricultural experience & who are able to plant crops in this setting, supported by Lutheran Social Services.
New Roots for Refugees program at Cultivate Kansas City 4 year farm training program with many graduates going on to own farm-based businesses.
Socially aware gardens at Jerusalem Botanical Gardens uses their public garden as part of social programming, including Plants Grow People, with its rehabilitation focus for holocaust survivors, war veterans and immigrants.
Tapestry Farms nonprofit empowers refugees with urban gardening and support services in Iowa.
Transplanting Traditions community farm provides agricultural & entrepreneurial education to refugee farmers at this incubator site in Chapel Hill, NC.
Videos & webinars oN MIGRANT & REFUGEE POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
The Syracuse Refugee Agricultural Partnership Program is a 3 year educational farm-based model for growing, selling and producing vegetables, with an eye to promoting farm businesses.
Global garden reminds Bhutanese refugees of home with urban farm activity in Chicago, with support from Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services.
New Roots for Refugees is a 4 year farming program in Kansas City, Missouri with intent for participants to earn extra money, purchase land and begin farm based businesses.
Plant it Forward Farms in Houston, Tx has a network of urban farms teaching refugees who were farmers, how to farm in their new climate - training program, financial incentives & more.
Planting Seeds organization nurtures multi-cultural and multi-faith nature sites, supporting biodiversity, community gardens in Australia.
Refugee Garden in Denver Co. through Project Worthmore uses private property to grow food as a model for this population.
St. Leo the Great Parish and their community garden for Burundi immigrants includes comments from young people & Burundi adults.
The Plants that Make Refugee Camps Feel More Like Home article & photos sheds light on life in these camps, and strategies for surviving including gardening.
Urban Gardens for the social integration of migrants (UGAIN) ebook, cofounded by Erasums & Programme of the European Union partnered with 7 European countries to promote community/urban gardens as an effective strategy for migrants & refuges.
Global garden reminds Bhutanese refugees of home with urban farm activity in Chicago, with support from Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services.
New Roots for Refugees is a 4 year farming program in Kansas City, Missouri with intent for participants to earn extra money, purchase land and begin farm based businesses.
Plant it Forward Farms in Houston, Tx has a network of urban farms teaching refugees who were farmers, how to farm in their new climate - training program, financial incentives & more.
Planting Seeds organization nurtures multi-cultural and multi-faith nature sites, supporting biodiversity, community gardens in Australia.
Refugee Garden in Denver Co. through Project Worthmore uses private property to grow food as a model for this population.
St. Leo the Great Parish and their community garden for Burundi immigrants includes comments from young people & Burundi adults.
The Plants that Make Refugee Camps Feel More Like Home article & photos sheds light on life in these camps, and strategies for surviving including gardening.
Urban Gardens for the social integration of migrants (UGAIN) ebook, cofounded by Erasums & Programme of the European Union partnered with 7 European countries to promote community/urban gardens as an effective strategy for migrants & refuges.
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming, Jonathan Trauth & Siang Yu Tham Jan 2022; revised Nov 2022 by Lesley Fleming, Bree Stark
CANCER POPULATIONS & PLANT-BASED PROGRAMS
People being treated or recovering from cancer have specific health challenges including need for privacy, sense of place, greater need for shade due to medication, and possible compromised immunity. Family and friends’ involvement in the cancer journey is an important aspect as well. Plant-based programs and gardens offer all involved in a cancer journey some respite from sterile hospital environments, distraction from pain, and settings that can be restorative and beautiful. A range of programs and places for people dealing with cancer demonstrate the variety of health strategies, the breadth of cancers, and the impact plants can have on physical, emotional, and spiritual health of patients, care partners, and staff. Studies undertaken in 2021-2022 have expanded the horticulture-health connections relating to cancer populations, cancer prevention and treatment including those on plant based diets and specific plants (mistletoe, black berries, chickpeas, bananas, cruciferous vegetables, orange peel) (Gupta et al., 2022; Rostock, 2020; Heydarirad et al., 2019; Mondale et al., 2021;, Tajaldini et al., 2020).
Related resources may be found in category Food, Nutrition subset and category Horticultural Therapy & Health Services.
People being treated or recovering from cancer have specific health challenges including need for privacy, sense of place, greater need for shade due to medication, and possible compromised immunity. Family and friends’ involvement in the cancer journey is an important aspect as well. Plant-based programs and gardens offer all involved in a cancer journey some respite from sterile hospital environments, distraction from pain, and settings that can be restorative and beautiful. A range of programs and places for people dealing with cancer demonstrate the variety of health strategies, the breadth of cancers, and the impact plants can have on physical, emotional, and spiritual health of patients, care partners, and staff. Studies undertaken in 2021-2022 have expanded the horticulture-health connections relating to cancer populations, cancer prevention and treatment including those on plant based diets and specific plants (mistletoe, black berries, chickpeas, bananas, cruciferous vegetables, orange peel) (Gupta et al., 2022; Rostock, 2020; Heydarirad et al., 2019; Mondale et al., 2021;, Tajaldini et al., 2020).
Related resources may be found in category Food, Nutrition subset and category Horticultural Therapy & Health Services.
Key organizations
Books, journals & epublications ON CANCER POPULATIONS & PLANT-BASED PROGRAMS
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N. (2013). Chapter 8 Gardens for cancer patients. Therapeutic landscapes:
An evidence-based approach to designing healing gardens and restorative outdoor spaces. Wiley.
Fleming, L. (2016). Therapeutic Horticulture A Practitioner’s Perspective. Smashwords.
Haller, R., Kennedy, K. & Capra, C. (2019). The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC
Press.
An evidence-based approach to designing healing gardens and restorative outdoor spaces. Wiley.
Fleming, L. (2016). Therapeutic Horticulture A Practitioner’s Perspective. Smashwords.
Haller, R., Kennedy, K. & Capra, C. (2019). The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC
Press.
Research & articles on CANCER POPULATIONS & PLANT-BASED PROGRAMS
Recently published selected research & articles:
Alexander, G.K., Bashore, L. & Brooks, V. (2022). Improving food literacy and access among young
adult cancer survivors: A cross-sectional descriptive study. Cancer Nurs., 45(2), 161-166. doi: 10.1097/NCC.0000000000000992
Bail, J.R., Blair, C.K., Smith, K.P., Oster, R.A., Kaur, H., Locher, J.L., Frugé, A.D., Rocque, G., Pisu, M.,
Cohen, H.J. & Demark-Wahnefried, W. (2022). Harvest for Health, a randomized controlled
trial testing a home-based, vegetable gardening intervention among older cancer survivors across Alabama: An analysis of accrual and modifications made in intervention delivery and assessment during COVID-19. J Acad Nutr Diet., 122(9), 1629-1643. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2022.05.005
Beyliklioğlu, A. & Arslan, S. (2019). Effect of lavender oil on the anxiety of patients before breast
surgery. J Perianesth Nurs., 34(3), 587-593. doi: 10.1016/j.jopan.2018.10.002
Blaschke, S. (2017). The role of nature in cancer patient’s lives: A systematic review and qualitative
meta-synthesis. BMC Cancer, 1, 370. doi: 10.1186/s12885-017-3366-6
Buentzel, S.K., Huebner, J., Buentzel, J. & Micke, O. (2022). Medicinal plants used for abdominal
discomfort - Information from cancer patients and medical students. In Vivo, 36(5), 2422-2433. doi: 10.21873/invivo.12976
Chae, Y., Lee, S., Jo, Y., Kang, S., Park, S. & Kang, H. (2021). The effects of forest therapy on immune
function. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 18(16), 8440. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18168440
Chang, Y.C., Tseng, T.A. & Chiu, S.C. (2018). The effect of nature therapy for stress, anxiety,
depression and demoralization on breast cancer patients. GSTF J. Nurs. Health Care, 5.
Chen, HM. & Tu, HM. (2014). Effects of horticultural therapy on cancer patients’ psychological well-
being in different therapeutic environments. Conference Paper ASHS Annual Conference.
Choi, Y.H., Lee, S.M., Gim, G.M., Jeong, S.H. & Lee, S. (2017). The effect of horticulture therapy
program for behavior problems and subjective mood and energy of childhood cancer patients. 인간식물환경학회지, 20(6), 615-627.
Cimprich, B. (1993). Development of an intervention to restore attention in cancer patients. Cancer
Nursing, 16, 18-32.
Cimprich, B. & Ronis, D.L. (2003). An environmental intervention to restore attention in women with
newly diagnosed breast cancer. Cancer Nurs,. 26(4), 284–292. doi: 10.1097/00002820-200308000-00005
Cutillo, A., Rathore, N., Reynolds, L., Hilliard, H., Haines, K., Whelan, A. & Madan-Swain, A. (2015). A
literature review of nature-based therapy and its application in cancer care. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 25(1).
Demark-Wahnefried, W., Cases, M.G., Cantor, A.B., Frugé, A.D., Smith, K.P., Locher, J., Cohen, H.J.,
Tsuruta, Y., Daniel, M., Kala, R. & De Los Santos, J.F. (2018). Pilot randomized controlled trial of a home vegetable gardening intervention among older cancer survivors shows feasibility, satisfaction, and promise in improving vegetable and fruit consumption, reassurance of worth, and the trajectory of central adiposity. J Acad Nutr Diet., 118(4), 689-704. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2017.11.001
Fillon, M. (2014). Home gardening: An effective cancer therapy. JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer
Institute, 106(11). https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/dju391
Fleming, L. & Morrison, J. (2021). Superfood garlic: Applications for people-plant programming.
Digging In, 7(3), 1-4.
Fleming, L. (2015). Horticultural therapy programs that excite, excel and engage. Guelph Enabling
Garden. http://www.enablinggarden.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Lesley-Flemming-Guelph-Enabling-Garden-Article.pdf
Fleming, L. & Figueirdo, M. (2016). Healing gardens for cancer populations. Therapeutic Horticulture
A Practitioner’s Perspective. Smashwords.
Franco, L., Blanck, T.J., Dugan, K., Kline, R., Shanmugam, G., Galotti, A., von Bergen Granell, A. &
Wajda, M. (2016). Both lavender fleur oil and unscented oil aromatherapy reduce preoperative anxiety in breast surgery patients: A randomized trial. J Clin Anesth., 33, 243-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jclinane.2016.02.032.
Fried, G.G. & Wichrowski, M.J. (2008). Horticultural therapy: A psychosocial treatment option at the
Stephen D. Hassenfeld Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Primary Psychiatry, 15(7), 73–77.
Gany, F., Lee, T., Loeb, R., Ramirez, J., Moran, A., Crist, M., McNish, T. & Leng, J.C.F. (2015). Use of
hospital-based food pantries among low-income urban cancer patients. Journal Community Health, 40(6), 1193- 1200. doi:10.1007/s10900-015-0048-7
Gupta, N., Patel, H.D., Taylor, J., Borin, J.F., Jacobsohn, K., Kenfield, S.A., Eggener, S.E., Price, C.,
Davuluri, M., Byrne, N., Bivalacqua, T.J. & Loeb, S. (2022). Systematic review of the impact of a plant-based diet on prostate cancer incidence and outcomes. Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis., 25(3), 444-452. doi: 10.1038/s41391-022-00553-2
Heydarirad, G., Choopani, R., Pasalar, M., Parvizi, M.M., Hajian, P. & Mirzaei, H.R. (2019). The effect of
a chickpea-based Persian diet on cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer patients: A semi-experimental study. Complement Med Res., 26(6), 390-397. doi: 10.1159/000500017
Huang, Y.W., Lin, C.W., Pan, P., Shan, T., Echeveste, C.E., Mo, Y.Y., Wang, H.T., Aldakkak M, Tsai S,
Oshima K, Yearsley, M., Xiao, J., Cao, H., Sun, C., Du, M., Bai, W., Yu, J. & Wang, L.S. (2020). Black raspberries suppress colorectal cancer by enhancing Smad4 expression in colonic epithelium and natural killer cells. Front Immunol., 11, 570683. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.570683
Keaver, L., Houlihan, C., O'Callaghan, N., LaVertu, A.E., Ding, X. & Zhang, F.F. (2022). Evidence-based
nutrition guidelines for cancer survivors in Europe: A call for action. Eur J Clin Nutr., 76(6), 819-826. doi: 10.1038/s41430-021-01036-8
Kennedy, K. (2019). Program example: Meeting the needs of people touched by cancer. In R. Haller,
K. Kennedy & C. Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Kim, E., Mattson, R.H., Park, S., Lunday, L., Knligge, A. & Taft, S. (2008). Horticultural therapy
program for cancer survivors: Current status in the United States and a pilot research program. Acta Horticulturae. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2008.790.17
Lai, C.K.Y., Lau, C.K.Y., Kan, W.Y., Lam, W.M. & Fung, C.Y.Y. (2017). The effect of horticultural therapy on the
quality of life of palliative care patients. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, 35(3), 278-291.
Lee, S.M., Gim, G.M., Jeong, S.H. & Choi, Y.H. (2016). Integration of biological and psychological
factors in horticultural therapy for cancer patients: Focused on making grass dolls,
transplanting, and making tea with herb plants. XIII International People Plant Symposium: Plants, Cultures and Healthy Communities 1246, 23-26.
Lehto, R., Wyatt, G., Sender, J. & Miller, S.E. (2021). An evaluation of natural environment
interventions for informal cancer caregivers in the community. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(21), 11124. doi: 10.3390/ijerph182111124
Lettieri-Barbato, D. & Aquilano, K. (2018). Pushing the limits of cancer therapy: The nutrient game.
Front Oncol., 8, 148. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00148
Li, X., Qin, Y., Liu, W., Zhou, X.Y., Li, Y.N. & Wang, L.Y. (2018). Efficacy of ginger in ameliorating acute
and delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting among patients with lung cancer receiving Cisplatin-Based regimens: A randomized controlled trial. Integr Cancer Ther., 17(3), 747-754. doi: 10.1177/1534735417753541
Mann DO, S., Sidhu DO, M. & Gowin, DO, K. (2020). Understanding the mechanisms of diet and
outcomes in colon, prostate, and breast cancer; Malignant gliomas; and cancer patients on immunotherapy. Nutrients, 12(8), 2226. doi: 10.3390/nu12082226
Masel, E.K., Trinczek, H., Adamidis, F., Schur, S., Unseld, M., Kitta, A., Kirchheiner, K., Steininger, B,
Meixner-Katzmann, K. & Watzke, H.H. (2018). Vitamin "G"arden: A qualitative study exploring
perception/s of horticultural therapy on a palliative care ward. Support Care Cancer, 26(6),
1799-1805. doi: 10.1007/s00520-017-3978-z
Mondal, A., Banerjee, S., Bose, S., Das, P.P., Sandberg, E.N., Atanasov, A.G. & Bishayee, A. (2021).
Cancer preventive and therapeutic potential of banana and its bioactive constituents: A systematic, comprehensive, and mechanistic review. Front Oncol., 11, 697143. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2021.697143
Mori, Y., Kugel, J., Krpalek, D., Javaherian-Dysinger, H. & Gharibvand, L. (2021). Occupational therapy
and therapeutic horticulture for women with cancer and chronic pain: A pilot study. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 9(2), 1-14.
Morris, S.L., Newhouse, I., Larocque, T., Gillis, K. J., Smith, L. & Nisbet, E.K. (2021). Becoming one with
nature: A nature intervention for individuals living with cancer participating in a ten-week group exercise and wellness program. International Journal of Exercise Science, 14(3), 498.
Morrison, M.E.W., Joseph, J.M., McCann, S.E., Tang, L., Almohanna, H.M. & Moysich, K.B. (2020).
Cruciferous vegetable consumption and stomach cancer: A case-control study. Nutr Cancer., 72(1), 52-61. doi: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1615100
Nakau, M., Imanishi, J., Imanishi, J., Watanabe, S., Imanishi, A., Baba, T., Hirai, K., Ito, T., Chiba, W. &
Morimoto, Y. (2013). Spiritual care of cancer patients by integrated medicine in urban green space: A pilot study. Explore (NY), 9(2), 87-90. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2012.12.002
Nandini, D.B., Rao, R.S., Deepak, B.S. & Reddy, P.B. (2020). Sulforaphane in broccoli: The green
chemoprevention!! Role in cancer prevention and therapy. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol.,
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Novak, T. (2021). Horticultural healing. Cancer Wellness.
Ozkaraman, A., Dügüm, Ö., Özen Yılmaz, H. & Usta Yesilbalkan, Ö. (2018). Aromatherapy: The effect
of lavender on anxiety and sleep quality in patients treated with chemotherapy. Clin J Oncol Nurs., 22(2), 203-210. doi: 10.1188/18.CJON.203-210
Ra, E.H., Yun, S.Y. & Choi, B.J. (2018). The effects of horticultural therapy using lavandula stoechas on
vital signs, pain, and sleep satisfaction of hospice patients. Journal of People, Plants, and Environment, 21(4), 271-277.
Rostock, M. (2020). Die Misteltherapie in der Behandlung von Patienten mit einer Krebserkrankung
[Mistletoe in the treatment of cancer patients]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz, 63(5), 535-540. German. doi: 10.1007/s00103-020-03122-x
Santana-Gálvez, J., Villela-Castrejón, J., Serna-Saldívar, S.O., Cisneros-Zevallos, L. & Jacobo-Velázquez,
D.A. (2020). Synergistic combinations of curcumin, sulforaphane, and dihydrocaffeic acid against human colon cancer cells. Int J Mol Sci., 21(9), 3108. doi: 10.3390/ijms21093108
Sharma, H., Pankratz, V.S., Demark-Wahnefried, W., Pestak, C.R. & Blair, C.K. (2022). Association
between quality of life and physical functioning in a gardening intervention for cancer survivors. Healthcare, 10(8), 1421. doi: 10.3390/healthcare10081421
Spees, C.K., Hill, E.B., Grainger, E.M. et al. (2016). Feasibility, preliminary efficacy, and lessons learned
from a garden-based lifestyle intervention for cancer survivors. Cancer Control, 2(3), 302-310.
Tham, S.Y. (2022). Therapeutic horticulture for people affected by cancer. Horticultural Therapy
Institute.
Verzwyvelt, A., McNamara. L., Xu X, A. & Stubbins, R. (2021). Effects of virtual reality v. biophilic
environments on pain and distress in oncology patients: A case-crossover pilot study. Sci Rep., 11(1), 20196. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-99763-2
Wu, T.N., Chen, H.M. & Shyur, L.F. (2021). Current advancements of plant-derived agents for triple-
negative breast cancer therapy through deregulating cancer cell functions and reprogramming tumor microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci., 22(24), 13571. doi: 10.3390/ijms222413571
Yeung, K.S., Hernandez, M., Mao, J.J., Haviland, I. & Gubili, J. (2018). Herbal medicine for depression
and anxiety: A systematic review with assessment of potential psycho-oncologic relevance. Phytother Res., 32(5), 865-891. doi: 10.1002/ptr.6033
Zanatta, A.A., José, R., Perini, C.C. & Fischer, M.L. (2019). Biophilia: Production of active life in
palliative care. Saúde em Debate, 43, 949-965.
Alexander, G.K., Bashore, L. & Brooks, V. (2022). Improving food literacy and access among young
adult cancer survivors: A cross-sectional descriptive study. Cancer Nurs., 45(2), 161-166. doi: 10.1097/NCC.0000000000000992
Bail, J.R., Blair, C.K., Smith, K.P., Oster, R.A., Kaur, H., Locher, J.L., Frugé, A.D., Rocque, G., Pisu, M.,
Cohen, H.J. & Demark-Wahnefried, W. (2022). Harvest for Health, a randomized controlled
trial testing a home-based, vegetable gardening intervention among older cancer survivors across Alabama: An analysis of accrual and modifications made in intervention delivery and assessment during COVID-19. J Acad Nutr Diet., 122(9), 1629-1643. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2022.05.005
Beyliklioğlu, A. & Arslan, S. (2019). Effect of lavender oil on the anxiety of patients before breast
surgery. J Perianesth Nurs., 34(3), 587-593. doi: 10.1016/j.jopan.2018.10.002
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and delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting among patients with lung cancer receiving Cisplatin-Based regimens: A randomized controlled trial. Integr Cancer Ther., 17(3), 747-754. doi: 10.1177/1534735417753541
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nature: A nature intervention for individuals living with cancer participating in a ten-week group exercise and wellness program. International Journal of Exercise Science, 14(3), 498.
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Cruciferous vegetable consumption and stomach cancer: A case-control study. Nutr Cancer., 72(1), 52-61. doi: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1615100
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Ra, E.H., Yun, S.Y. & Choi, B.J. (2018). The effects of horticultural therapy using lavandula stoechas on
vital signs, pain, and sleep satisfaction of hospice patients. Journal of People, Plants, and Environment, 21(4), 271-277.
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Examples of CANCER POPULATIONS & PLANT-BASED PROGRAMS
Camp Dream Street Kaplen Jewish Community Center’s summer camp is specifically for children with cancer & other blood disorders. Therapeutic horticulture & other programs address needs of this population.
Cancer Lifeline’s O’Brien Cancer Gardens in Seattle, WA. has 4 rooftop gardens used for therapeutic sessions & ceremonies, with a range of garden themes.
Cancer Treatment Centers of America (Arizona location) has a 25 acre working farm integrating nutrition, gardening, physical activity, & emotional support for people in cancer treatment; posted on CNN.
Cancer Treatment Centers of America looks at plant-based and organic meals for cancer patients with dietician & cookbook author Ellie Krieger, sharing nutrition insights like eating the rainbow.
Cape Breton Regional Cancer Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia has a healing garden adjacent to the treatment room along with plant-based programs for people with cancer.
Contra Costa County Regional Medical Center in Martinez, CA is an example of patient-friendly garden and building space, profiled by Healthcare Design magazine.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Thea & James Stoneman Healing Garden & the Morse Conservatory in Boston, MA offer patients, visitors & staff green space for healing including space with strict infection control standards for use by those who are immune compromised.
Healing garden in Hawaii welcomes cancer patients to restore emotional health & engage with cancer survivors in a plant-dense outdoor sanctuary. KITV.com report on ABC
Hope in Bloom non-profit installs gardens for patients in their own homes recognizing cancer patient’s preference for healing at home, & challenges related to mobility & stamina.
Seidman Cancer Center’s therapeutic space at University Hospital includes a labyrinth, circular garden, zen sculptures and restorative areas.
The Mustard Tree Macmillan Cancer Support Center at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth UK delivers Blooming Well community-based therapeutic horticulture program for patients with a cancer diagnosis.
The Gathering Place Norma’s Garden, Cleveland, Ohio is a facility with multiple gardens designed to support the cancer journey, offering activities, yoga, support groups in this green setting.
The Healing Gardens at Cone Health Center, Greensboro NC. offers a variety of programs in its woodland setting.
University of Alabama Birmingham’s Harvest for Health program & research paired cancer survivors with master gardeners to grow food in their home gardens, with improvements in physical exercise, nutrition, self-confidence & sense of control.
Virginia Thurston Healing Garden, Harvard Mass, is an 8 acre woodland setting with cancer facility.
Cancer Lifeline’s O’Brien Cancer Gardens in Seattle, WA. has 4 rooftop gardens used for therapeutic sessions & ceremonies, with a range of garden themes.
Cancer Treatment Centers of America (Arizona location) has a 25 acre working farm integrating nutrition, gardening, physical activity, & emotional support for people in cancer treatment; posted on CNN.
Cancer Treatment Centers of America looks at plant-based and organic meals for cancer patients with dietician & cookbook author Ellie Krieger, sharing nutrition insights like eating the rainbow.
Cape Breton Regional Cancer Centre in Sydney, Nova Scotia has a healing garden adjacent to the treatment room along with plant-based programs for people with cancer.
Contra Costa County Regional Medical Center in Martinez, CA is an example of patient-friendly garden and building space, profiled by Healthcare Design magazine.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Thea & James Stoneman Healing Garden & the Morse Conservatory in Boston, MA offer patients, visitors & staff green space for healing including space with strict infection control standards for use by those who are immune compromised.
Healing garden in Hawaii welcomes cancer patients to restore emotional health & engage with cancer survivors in a plant-dense outdoor sanctuary. KITV.com report on ABC
Hope in Bloom non-profit installs gardens for patients in their own homes recognizing cancer patient’s preference for healing at home, & challenges related to mobility & stamina.
Seidman Cancer Center’s therapeutic space at University Hospital includes a labyrinth, circular garden, zen sculptures and restorative areas.
The Mustard Tree Macmillan Cancer Support Center at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth UK delivers Blooming Well community-based therapeutic horticulture program for patients with a cancer diagnosis.
The Gathering Place Norma’s Garden, Cleveland, Ohio is a facility with multiple gardens designed to support the cancer journey, offering activities, yoga, support groups in this green setting.
The Healing Gardens at Cone Health Center, Greensboro NC. offers a variety of programs in its woodland setting.
University of Alabama Birmingham’s Harvest for Health program & research paired cancer survivors with master gardeners to grow food in their home gardens, with improvements in physical exercise, nutrition, self-confidence & sense of control.
Virginia Thurston Healing Garden, Harvard Mass, is an 8 acre woodland setting with cancer facility.
Videos, webinars & websites on cancer populations & plant-based program
Carle Cancer Institute has 3 healing gardens including a butterfly garden, a labyrinth & terrace garden.
Gardens in healthcare and related facilities are identified on Therapeutic Landscapes Network’s website and directory including those at cancer care facilities.
John Sykes Curtis Harvey Center lists healing gardens including Blackstone River Healing Garden for cancer patients, Dana Farber/Brigham & Women’s Cancer Center in Weymouth, Howard Ulfelder Healing Garden at Yawkey Center, Mass General, Mary Eagan Garden at Children’s Hospital Waltham MA. & others throughout the U.S.
Siteman Cancer Center has partnered with Missouri Botanical Garden to bring Journey to Well Being walking tours in a virtual format, using their Japanese Garden in support for those in cancer treatment.
Wilmot Gardens therapeutic horticulture program includes people with gynecologic cancer.
Gardens in healthcare and related facilities are identified on Therapeutic Landscapes Network’s website and directory including those at cancer care facilities.
John Sykes Curtis Harvey Center lists healing gardens including Blackstone River Healing Garden for cancer patients, Dana Farber/Brigham & Women’s Cancer Center in Weymouth, Howard Ulfelder Healing Garden at Yawkey Center, Mass General, Mary Eagan Garden at Children’s Hospital Waltham MA. & others throughout the U.S.
Siteman Cancer Center has partnered with Missouri Botanical Garden to bring Journey to Well Being walking tours in a virtual format, using their Japanese Garden in support for those in cancer treatment.
Wilmot Gardens therapeutic horticulture program includes people with gynecologic cancer.
Related organizations
Breast Cancer Foundation
National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health (U.S.)
Specific cancer types & related organizations (Ovarian Cancer Organizations, Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network etc)
National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health (U.S.)
Specific cancer types & related organizations (Ovarian Cancer Organizations, Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network etc)
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming Feb 22; revised Nov 22 by Lesley Fleming, Bree Stark
Acknowledgement of content derived from Fleming & Figueiredo article Healing Gardens for Cancer Populations.
Acknowledgement of content derived from Fleming & Figueiredo article Healing Gardens for Cancer Populations.
Feeding and Eating Disorders Populations & Programs
Feeding and eating disorders are now understood to include a range of disruptive behaviors including
anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), binge-eating disorder (BED), avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), purging disorder and other specified feeding or eating disorders according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5) and the 11th revision of the World Health Organization's International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (2019). Feeding and eating disorders (FEDs) affect children, adolescents and adults. Researcher Hay suggests that “eating disorders [are] characterised by the internalisation of the thin ideal and extreme weight‐control behaviors. In both, overvaluation of weight and shape – where such body image concern is of major or paramount importance to self‐view – is a mandatory criterion” (2020). Current thought and understanding places greater emphasis on behavioral rather than physical and cognitive criteria. Eating disorders can be potentially life-threatening, impactful on every organ system, with prognosis varying widely, with adolescents having greater success in recovery than adults (Hornberger & Lane, 2021).
Treatment principles across eating disorders seek to attain full healthy weight and growth trajectory through nourishment and healthy relationships with food and eating behaviors, body weight, shape and size. Limited research is available on pathology and psychobiology of eating disorders but some previously understood characteristics and incidences have been revised, now recognizing eating disorders exist in all racial and ethnic groups, lower socioeconomic classes, preadolescent children, males and females (Hornberger & Lane, 2021).
Treatment of eating disorders focus on recovery and occur in day facilities-outpatient settings, residential and hospital-based stabilization programs. A small number of treatment programs integrate horticultural therapy or therapeutic horticulture into eating disorder interventions. Program goals involve growing and eating healthy food, adapting disruptive unhealthy eating patterns, nutrition counseling, emotional regulation, and positive leisure activities using plant-based activities.
Feeding and eating disorders are now understood to include a range of disruptive behaviors including
anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), binge-eating disorder (BED), avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), purging disorder and other specified feeding or eating disorders according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition (DSM-5) and the 11th revision of the World Health Organization's International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (2019). Feeding and eating disorders (FEDs) affect children, adolescents and adults. Researcher Hay suggests that “eating disorders [are] characterised by the internalisation of the thin ideal and extreme weight‐control behaviors. In both, overvaluation of weight and shape – where such body image concern is of major or paramount importance to self‐view – is a mandatory criterion” (2020). Current thought and understanding places greater emphasis on behavioral rather than physical and cognitive criteria. Eating disorders can be potentially life-threatening, impactful on every organ system, with prognosis varying widely, with adolescents having greater success in recovery than adults (Hornberger & Lane, 2021).
Treatment principles across eating disorders seek to attain full healthy weight and growth trajectory through nourishment and healthy relationships with food and eating behaviors, body weight, shape and size. Limited research is available on pathology and psychobiology of eating disorders but some previously understood characteristics and incidences have been revised, now recognizing eating disorders exist in all racial and ethnic groups, lower socioeconomic classes, preadolescent children, males and females (Hornberger & Lane, 2021).
Treatment of eating disorders focus on recovery and occur in day facilities-outpatient settings, residential and hospital-based stabilization programs. A small number of treatment programs integrate horticultural therapy or therapeutic horticulture into eating disorder interventions. Program goals involve growing and eating healthy food, adapting disruptive unhealthy eating patterns, nutrition counseling, emotional regulation, and positive leisure activities using plant-based activities.
Key organizations
Books, journals & epublications ON Feeding and Eating Disorders Populations & ProgramS
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th
ed. American Psychiatric Association Publishing.
National Eating Disorder Association (2022). Statistics and Research on Eating Disorders.
ed. American Psychiatric Association Publishing.
National Eating Disorder Association (2022). Statistics and Research on Eating Disorders.
Research & articles on FEEDING AND EATING DISORDERS POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Recently published selected research & articles:
Allen, K.L. Byrne, S.M., Hii, H., van Eekelen, A., Mattes, E. & Foster, J.K. (2013). Neurocognitive
functioning in adolescents with eating disorders: A population-based study. Cogn Neuropsychiatry, 18(5), 355-375. doi: 10.1080/13546805.2012.698592
Blackwell, D., Becker, C., Bermudez, O., Berrett, M.E., Brooks, G.E., Bunnell, D.W, Cabrera, D., Costin,
C., Hemendinger, N., Johnson, C., Klump, K.L., Levinson, C.A., Lutter, M., Maine, M., McAdams, C.J., McGilley, B.H., Murray, S.B., Myers, E., Ouellette, J.D., Peat, C.M., Saffran, K. & Setliff, S. (2021). The Legacy of Hope Summit: A consensus-based initiative and report on eating disorders in the U.S. and recommendations for the path forward. J Eat Disord., 9(1), 145. doi: 10.1186/s40337-021-00501-w
Butterfly Foundation. (2022). Submission to the Select Committee Inquiry into social media and
online safety.
Calzo, J.P., Horton, N.J., Sonneville, K.R., Swanson, S., Crosby, R.D., Micali, N., Eddy, K.T. & Field, A.E.
(2016). Male eating disorder symptom patterns and health correlates from 13 to 26 years of age. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry, 55(8), 693-700. doi: 10.1016/j.jaac.2016.05.011
Cipriani, J., Benz, A., Holmgren, A., Kinter, D., McGarry, J. & Rufino, G. (2017). A systematic review of
the effects of horticultural therapy on persons with mental health conditions. Occup. Ther. Ment. Health, 33, 47–69. doi: 10.1080/0164212X.2016.1231602
Corazon, S.S., Sidenius, U., Vammen, K.S., Klinker, S.E., Stigsdotter, U.K. & Poulsen, D.V. (2018). The
Tree Is My Anchor: A pilot study on the treatment of BED through nature-based therapy. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 15(11), 2486. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15112486
Fleming, L. (2015). Horticultural therapy programs that excite, excel and engage. Guelph Enabling
Garden.
Fleming, L. (2012). Interview with Dr. Cheryl Aubie, Psychologist, Capital Health Eating Disorder Program. Digging In 2(1): 1-3.
Fleming, L. & Sampson, K. (2022). Feeding and eating disorders and horticultural therapy. Cultivate,
2(4), 1-5.
Golden, N.H., Katzman, D.K., Sawyer, S.M., Ornstein, R.M., Rome, E.S., Garber, A.K., Kohn, M. &
Kreipe, R.C. (2015). Position paper of the Society of Adolescent Health and Medicine: Medical management of restrictive eating disorders in adolescents and young adults. J Adolesc Health, 56(1), 121-125. doi: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2014.10.259
Guglielmetti Mugion, R. & Menicucci, E. (2021). Understanding the benefits of horticultural therapy
on paediatric patient's well-being during hospitalization. The TQM Journal, 33(4), 856-881. https://doi.org/10.1108/TQM-04-2020-0078
Haith, J. & Trenoweth, S. (2015). Horticulture and ecotherpies: Improving health and wellbeing.
British Journal of Mental Health Nursing, 4(5). https://doi.org/10.12968/bjmh.2015.4.6.283
Haldeman, E. (2020). Mental health movement – horticulture as therapy. Baltimoreoutloud.com.
Hay, P. (2020). Current approach to eating disorders: A clinical update. Intern Med J., 50(1), 24-29. doi:
10.1111/imj.14691
Harter, R. (2015). Horticulture as therapy in university settings: A manual for university mental health
allies. Thesis: University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Hogan, M. & Delaney, M.E. (201). Ecotherapy interventions. In Delaney Nature is Nurture: Counseling
and the Natural World. Tantor and Blackstone Publishing, 181.
Hornberger, L.L. & Lane, M.A., Committee on Adolescence. (2021). Identification and management of
eating disorders in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 147(1), e2020040279. doi: 10.1542/peds.2020-040279
Irish, J. (2019). Program example: Psychiatric, Rogers Memorial Hospital, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.
In Haller, Kramer & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Jowik, K., Tyszkiewicz-Nwafor, M. & Słopień, A. (2021). Anorexia nervosa-What has changed in the
state of knowledge about nutritional rehabilitation for patients over the past 10 years? A review of literature. Nutrients, 13(11), 3819. doi: 10.3390/nu13113819
Palvras, M.A., Hay, P., Filho, C.A.S. & Claudino, A. (2017). The efficacy of psychological therapies in
reducing weight and binge eating in people with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder who are overweight or obese—A critical synthesis and meta-analyses. Nutrients, 299. doi: 10.3390/nu9030299
Robinson-O’Brien, R., Perry, C.L., Wall, M.M., Story, M. & Neumark-Sztainer, D. (2009). Adolescent
and young adult vegetarianism: Better dietary intake and weight outcomes but increased risk of disordered eating behaviors. J Am Diet Assoc., 109(4), 648-655. doi: 10.1016/j.jada.2008.12.014
Smith, B.E.R. (2022). Implementing horticultural therapy in eating disorder recovery. National Eating
Disorders Association.
Starling, LA. (2016). Horticultural therapy with special populations. In Waliczek & Zajicek (Eds.) Urban
Horticulture. Routledge, 205.
Allen, K.L. Byrne, S.M., Hii, H., van Eekelen, A., Mattes, E. & Foster, J.K. (2013). Neurocognitive
functioning in adolescents with eating disorders: A population-based study. Cogn Neuropsychiatry, 18(5), 355-375. doi: 10.1080/13546805.2012.698592
Blackwell, D., Becker, C., Bermudez, O., Berrett, M.E., Brooks, G.E., Bunnell, D.W, Cabrera, D., Costin,
C., Hemendinger, N., Johnson, C., Klump, K.L., Levinson, C.A., Lutter, M., Maine, M., McAdams, C.J., McGilley, B.H., Murray, S.B., Myers, E., Ouellette, J.D., Peat, C.M., Saffran, K. & Setliff, S. (2021). The Legacy of Hope Summit: A consensus-based initiative and report on eating disorders in the U.S. and recommendations for the path forward. J Eat Disord., 9(1), 145. doi: 10.1186/s40337-021-00501-w
Butterfly Foundation. (2022). Submission to the Select Committee Inquiry into social media and
online safety.
Calzo, J.P., Horton, N.J., Sonneville, K.R., Swanson, S., Crosby, R.D., Micali, N., Eddy, K.T. & Field, A.E.
(2016). Male eating disorder symptom patterns and health correlates from 13 to 26 years of age. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry, 55(8), 693-700. doi: 10.1016/j.jaac.2016.05.011
Cipriani, J., Benz, A., Holmgren, A., Kinter, D., McGarry, J. & Rufino, G. (2017). A systematic review of
the effects of horticultural therapy on persons with mental health conditions. Occup. Ther. Ment. Health, 33, 47–69. doi: 10.1080/0164212X.2016.1231602
Corazon, S.S., Sidenius, U., Vammen, K.S., Klinker, S.E., Stigsdotter, U.K. & Poulsen, D.V. (2018). The
Tree Is My Anchor: A pilot study on the treatment of BED through nature-based therapy. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 15(11), 2486. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15112486
Fleming, L. (2015). Horticultural therapy programs that excite, excel and engage. Guelph Enabling
Garden.
Fleming, L. (2012). Interview with Dr. Cheryl Aubie, Psychologist, Capital Health Eating Disorder Program. Digging In 2(1): 1-3.
Fleming, L. & Sampson, K. (2022). Feeding and eating disorders and horticultural therapy. Cultivate,
2(4), 1-5.
Golden, N.H., Katzman, D.K., Sawyer, S.M., Ornstein, R.M., Rome, E.S., Garber, A.K., Kohn, M. &
Kreipe, R.C. (2015). Position paper of the Society of Adolescent Health and Medicine: Medical management of restrictive eating disorders in adolescents and young adults. J Adolesc Health, 56(1), 121-125. doi: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2014.10.259
Guglielmetti Mugion, R. & Menicucci, E. (2021). Understanding the benefits of horticultural therapy
on paediatric patient's well-being during hospitalization. The TQM Journal, 33(4), 856-881. https://doi.org/10.1108/TQM-04-2020-0078
Haith, J. & Trenoweth, S. (2015). Horticulture and ecotherpies: Improving health and wellbeing.
British Journal of Mental Health Nursing, 4(5). https://doi.org/10.12968/bjmh.2015.4.6.283
Haldeman, E. (2020). Mental health movement – horticulture as therapy. Baltimoreoutloud.com.
Hay, P. (2020). Current approach to eating disorders: A clinical update. Intern Med J., 50(1), 24-29. doi:
10.1111/imj.14691
Harter, R. (2015). Horticulture as therapy in university settings: A manual for university mental health
allies. Thesis: University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Hogan, M. & Delaney, M.E. (201). Ecotherapy interventions. In Delaney Nature is Nurture: Counseling
and the Natural World. Tantor and Blackstone Publishing, 181.
Hornberger, L.L. & Lane, M.A., Committee on Adolescence. (2021). Identification and management of
eating disorders in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 147(1), e2020040279. doi: 10.1542/peds.2020-040279
Irish, J. (2019). Program example: Psychiatric, Rogers Memorial Hospital, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.
In Haller, Kramer & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Jowik, K., Tyszkiewicz-Nwafor, M. & Słopień, A. (2021). Anorexia nervosa-What has changed in the
state of knowledge about nutritional rehabilitation for patients over the past 10 years? A review of literature. Nutrients, 13(11), 3819. doi: 10.3390/nu13113819
Palvras, M.A., Hay, P., Filho, C.A.S. & Claudino, A. (2017). The efficacy of psychological therapies in
reducing weight and binge eating in people with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder who are overweight or obese—A critical synthesis and meta-analyses. Nutrients, 299. doi: 10.3390/nu9030299
Robinson-O’Brien, R., Perry, C.L., Wall, M.M., Story, M. & Neumark-Sztainer, D. (2009). Adolescent
and young adult vegetarianism: Better dietary intake and weight outcomes but increased risk of disordered eating behaviors. J Am Diet Assoc., 109(4), 648-655. doi: 10.1016/j.jada.2008.12.014
Smith, B.E.R. (2022). Implementing horticultural therapy in eating disorder recovery. National Eating
Disorders Association.
Starling, LA. (2016). Horticultural therapy with special populations. In Waliczek & Zajicek (Eds.) Urban
Horticulture. Routledge, 205.
Examples of FEEDING AND EATING DISORDERS POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Homewood Health Centre, Guelph Ontario offers specialized programs for mental health challenges including eating disorders. “In planting fruits and vegetables, patients with eating disorders learn about nutrition and also the importance of nurturing their bodies and soul.” Three registered horticultural therapists deliver the Homewood programs. (Hospital News, n.d.).
Rogers Behavioral Health, a multi-location health organization, uses horticultural therapy in eating disorder recovery. Dr. Brad Smith comments “horticultural therapy is a natural exposure that can be used to reduce anxiety and fear. If someone has challenges with contamination, they might avoid getting dirty or exposing themselves to germs, bugs, and plants. We use horticultural therapy as part of their exposure hierarchy to have an activity that will continue to challenge them, resulting in fewer obsessions and compulsions.” (2022).
Sheppard Pratt Harry Stack Sullivan Day Hospital uses a therapeutic garden and horticultural therapy in treatment of people with eating disorders at its Center for Eating Disorders.
The Eating Disorder program, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia helps people overcome anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorders. The clinic offers a variety of treatment options through individual therapy, consultation with a dietician, and a series of groups that address concerns associated with eating disorders and delivers a multi-disciplined approach at its out-patient clinic in a hospital setting, focused on improving relationships with food, and adapting behavior through growing and preparing nutritious food, hands-on gardening as positive social and leisure activities, supported by nutritional and psychological guidance from trained mental health professionals. (Eating Disorder Program | Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions, n.d.)
Rogers Behavioral Health, a multi-location health organization, uses horticultural therapy in eating disorder recovery. Dr. Brad Smith comments “horticultural therapy is a natural exposure that can be used to reduce anxiety and fear. If someone has challenges with contamination, they might avoid getting dirty or exposing themselves to germs, bugs, and plants. We use horticultural therapy as part of their exposure hierarchy to have an activity that will continue to challenge them, resulting in fewer obsessions and compulsions.” (2022).
Sheppard Pratt Harry Stack Sullivan Day Hospital uses a therapeutic garden and horticultural therapy in treatment of people with eating disorders at its Center for Eating Disorders.
The Eating Disorder program, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia helps people overcome anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorders. The clinic offers a variety of treatment options through individual therapy, consultation with a dietician, and a series of groups that address concerns associated with eating disorders and delivers a multi-disciplined approach at its out-patient clinic in a hospital setting, focused on improving relationships with food, and adapting behavior through growing and preparing nutritious food, hands-on gardening as positive social and leisure activities, supported by nutritional and psychological guidance from trained mental health professionals. (Eating Disorder Program | Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions, n.d.)
Videos & webinars ON FEEDING AND EATING DISORDERS POPULATIONS & PROGRAMS
Fact Sheets in multiple languages on eating disorders from Australia’s Butterfly organization
Family-based treatment (FBT) for eating disorders e-article describes FBT & family therapy and the pros and cons of each.
Horticultural therapy at Rogers Behavioral Health explains how it is integrated into mental health services, fostering new relationships with food.
Project Heal focuses on resources that support financial and insurance challenges for treatment of eating disorders.
Sensory Processing, Eating Disorders and Feeding Disorders video by 3 occupational therapists from Star Institute discuss connections with sensory processing, process of working with eating challenges, body awareness issues, and physiological inputs related to eating.
Family-based treatment (FBT) for eating disorders e-article describes FBT & family therapy and the pros and cons of each.
Horticultural therapy at Rogers Behavioral Health explains how it is integrated into mental health services, fostering new relationships with food.
Project Heal focuses on resources that support financial and insurance challenges for treatment of eating disorders.
Sensory Processing, Eating Disorders and Feeding Disorders video by 3 occupational therapists from Star Institute discuss connections with sensory processing, process of working with eating challenges, body awareness issues, and physiological inputs related to eating.
Related organizations
Alliance for Eating Disorder Awareness
Beating Eating Disorders (UK)
Butterfly Foundation (Australia)
National Association for Males with Eating Disorders (NAMED)
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders
The Academy for Eating Disorders professional association
Beating Eating Disorders (UK)
Butterfly Foundation (Australia)
National Association for Males with Eating Disorders (NAMED)
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders
The Academy for Eating Disorders professional association
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming, Kate Sampson & Bree Stark Nov 2022
Autism Spectrum Disorder Populations & Programs
“Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with repetitive behavior, social skills, verbal and non-verbal communication and how the brain processes environmental information (Autismspeaks, n.d.). Research has determined that there are subtypes influenced by genetic and environmental factors. ‘Each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges….[impacting how they] learn, think and problem-solve’. ‘In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association merged four distinct autism diagnoses into one umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They included autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome’” (Fleming, 2022).
Some people with autism may feel, understand or process senses (touch, taste, smell, see and hear) more or less than other people. Their responses may be different from others.
Recent research on autism spectrum disorder has been investigating connections between mutations in genes (Laviv, 2021), altered gut microbiota-changes in bacterial composition & fungal community (Krajmalnik-Brown, 2021), cerebellar differences in the brain (Brandenburg, 2021), immune dysfunction & inflammation as contributors to neurodevelopmental deficits observed in people with ASD (Bozzi, 2021), along with atypical visual attention/eye morphology/ocular function of people with ASD (Troiani & Dicriscio, 2020), & the role of environmental factors in ASD (Chauhan, 2020).
Exposure to nature, gardens, gardening, horticultural therapy and other plant-based interventions can address behavior, sensory integration, socialization & lower physical activity levels for people with autism spectrum disorder (Jachyra et al., 2020; Potvin et al., 2013; Polfuss et al., 2016). These types of programs are able to manage safety issues (elopement, risky behavior, appropriate staff: participant ratio, safe physical settings) while providing individualized, meaningful activities across functioning levels for this population. Sensory gardens continue to be important for individuals with autism, providing appropriate sensory stimulation, access to green space, and the broader community. Garden & nature access including design specifications to make access better for people with neuro-devlopment & intellectual disabilities continue to improve and be part of the conversation (ASLA, 2022). “Specifically designed playgrounds with a mix of spaces that provide opportunity for physical challenge, structured and imaginative play, and solitary observation can help facilitate positive peer interactions in autistic children” (ASLA, 2022a).
For related resources refer to category: Populations/Horticulture Programs in Specific Settings – Mental Health.
“Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with repetitive behavior, social skills, verbal and non-verbal communication and how the brain processes environmental information (Autismspeaks, n.d.). Research has determined that there are subtypes influenced by genetic and environmental factors. ‘Each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges….[impacting how they] learn, think and problem-solve’. ‘In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association merged four distinct autism diagnoses into one umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They included autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome’” (Fleming, 2022).
Some people with autism may feel, understand or process senses (touch, taste, smell, see and hear) more or less than other people. Their responses may be different from others.
Recent research on autism spectrum disorder has been investigating connections between mutations in genes (Laviv, 2021), altered gut microbiota-changes in bacterial composition & fungal community (Krajmalnik-Brown, 2021), cerebellar differences in the brain (Brandenburg, 2021), immune dysfunction & inflammation as contributors to neurodevelopmental deficits observed in people with ASD (Bozzi, 2021), along with atypical visual attention/eye morphology/ocular function of people with ASD (Troiani & Dicriscio, 2020), & the role of environmental factors in ASD (Chauhan, 2020).
Exposure to nature, gardens, gardening, horticultural therapy and other plant-based interventions can address behavior, sensory integration, socialization & lower physical activity levels for people with autism spectrum disorder (Jachyra et al., 2020; Potvin et al., 2013; Polfuss et al., 2016). These types of programs are able to manage safety issues (elopement, risky behavior, appropriate staff: participant ratio, safe physical settings) while providing individualized, meaningful activities across functioning levels for this population. Sensory gardens continue to be important for individuals with autism, providing appropriate sensory stimulation, access to green space, and the broader community. Garden & nature access including design specifications to make access better for people with neuro-devlopment & intellectual disabilities continue to improve and be part of the conversation (ASLA, 2022). “Specifically designed playgrounds with a mix of spaces that provide opportunity for physical challenge, structured and imaginative play, and solitary observation can help facilitate positive peer interactions in autistic children” (ASLA, 2022a).
For related resources refer to category: Populations/Horticulture Programs in Specific Settings – Mental Health.
Key organizations
Most of these national organizations have local chapters.
Asperger/Autism Network
Association for Science in Autism Treatment
Autism Research Institute
Autism Self Advocacy Network
Autismspeaks
Autism Society of America
Dan Marino Foundation (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
National Autism Association (NAA)
Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI)
Asperger/Autism Network
Association for Science in Autism Treatment
Autism Research Institute
Autism Self Advocacy Network
Autismspeaks
Autism Society of America
Dan Marino Foundation (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
National Autism Association (NAA)
Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI)
Books, journals & epublications ON Autism Spectrum Disorder Populations & Programs
Autism.org. (2022). ARI-Funded Research Studies 2021.
Autismspeaks. (2022). 100 Day Kit for Young Children.
Etherington, N. (2016). Gardening for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Special Educational
Needs: Engaging with Nature to Combat Anxiety, Promote Sensory Integration and build Social Skills. Jessica Kingsley Publisher.
ELEMY. (2021). 8 autism organizations worth joining or supporting (with references listing autism
organizations). ELEMY.
Gaines, K, Bourne, A., Pearson, M. & Kleibrink, M. (2016). Designing for Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Routledge. (Ch. Connections to the Outdoors).
Junior Master Gardener curricula
S.843 - Combatting Autism Act of 2006
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5).
Autismspeaks. (2022). 100 Day Kit for Young Children.
Etherington, N. (2016). Gardening for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Special Educational
Needs: Engaging with Nature to Combat Anxiety, Promote Sensory Integration and build Social Skills. Jessica Kingsley Publisher.
ELEMY. (2021). 8 autism organizations worth joining or supporting (with references listing autism
organizations). ELEMY.
Gaines, K, Bourne, A., Pearson, M. & Kleibrink, M. (2016). Designing for Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Routledge. (Ch. Connections to the Outdoors).
Junior Master Gardener curricula
S.843 - Combatting Autism Act of 2006
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5).
Research & articles on Autism Spectrum Disorder Populations & Programs
Recently published selected research & articles:
American Society of Landscape Architects. (2022a). Professional practice Children: Autism spectrum
disorders.
American Society of Landscape Architects. (2022b). Professional practice universal design.
Autism Nova Scotia. (2022). What is autism?
Battista, N. (2021). Cross-talk between food-borne Lactiplantibacillus (Lpb.) plantarum and the
endocannabinoid system towards autism spectrum disorder. Autism Research Institute.
Beela, GK. & Thankappan, H. (2021). Horticultural therapy program in Kerala improves the
emotional intelligence of school going children with autism spectrum disorder. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and ll International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1330.2
Chang, YY. & Chang, CY. (2010). The benefits of outdoor activities for children with autism. 16th
International Symposium on Society and Resource Management.
Coury, DL., Murray, DS., Fedele, A., Hess, T., Kelly, A. & Kuhlthau, K.A. (2020). The Autism Treatment
Network: Bringing best practices to all children with autism. American Academy of Pediatrics, 145(Supplement 1).
Fernelius, CL. (2017). Evidence-based practices for the design of inclusive playgrounds that
support peer interactions among children with all abilities. Master’s thesis, Utah State University. All Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 6809.
Fields, J. (2019). Autism spectrum disorder case study: Parker picks produce. In Haller, Kennedy and
Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press, 222-223.
Fleming, L. (2022). Autism tool kits. Digging In, 8(3), 12.
Flick, KM. (2012). The application of a horticultural therapy program for preschool children with
autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 22(1), 38-45.
Ford, A. (2018). Opening the door outside for students with autism spectrum disorder through
inclusive experiential education. https://doi.org/10.17615/0y4a-fn46
Gabaldo, M. (2019). Exhibit 7.1 Perspective and technique: Sensory processing. In Haller, Kennedy and
Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press, 148-149.
Gregor, S., Bruni, N., Grkinic, P., Schwartz, L., McDonald, A., Thille, P....Jachyra, P. (2018).
Parents’ perspectives of physical activity participation among Canadian adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 48(1), 53-62. doi: 10.1016/j.rasd.2018.01.007
Herbert, BB. (2003). Design guidelines of a therapeutic garden for autistic children. Louisiana State
University Digital Commons: Master’s Thesis.
Hickey, MA. (2016). Horticultural therapy intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder:
Creation and delivery of a manual for group treatment. Dissertation Alliant International University.
Jachyra, P., Renwick, R., Gladstone, B., Anagnostou, E. & Gibson, BE. (2020). Physical activity
participation among adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Autism, 25(3), 1-14. doi: 10.1177/1362361320949344
Khosravi, A., Khalili, A., Nayyeri Fallah, S. (2021). Spatial qualities supporting treatment process of
children with autism disorder. Armanshahr Architecture & Urban Development, 14(34), 101-114. doi: 10.22034/aaud.2020.182955.1858
Lee, GS., Yun, SY., Choi, HS. & Choi, BJ. (2018). Effects of color stimuli application in horticultural
therapy on the changes in challenging behaviors of the developmentally disabled. J. People Plant Environ., 21(4), 263-269. doi.org/10.11628/ksppe.2018.21.4.263 (this article includes autism)
Li, D., Larsen, L., Yang, Y., Wang, L., Zhai, Y., Sullivan, WC. (2019). Exposure to nature for children with
autism spectrum disorder: Benefits, caveats, and barriers. Health & Place, 55, 71-79. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.11.005
Minich, N. (2019). Program example: Biophilic design—A healing garden for adults with a range of
intellectual disabilities and autism. In Haller, Kennedy and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press, 284.
Priya, SV. (2022). Gardening therapy for children with autism. Autispark.
Ramshini, M., Hasanzadeh, S., Ali Afroz, G. & Razini, HH. (2018). The effect of family-centered nature
therapy on children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Rehabilitation, 19(2), 150-159.
Scartazzi, A., Mancini, ML., Proietti, S., Moscatello, S., Mattioni, C., Costantini, F., Di Baccio, C., Villani,
F. & Massacci, A. (2021). Caring for local biodiversity in a healing garden: Therapeutic benefits in young subjects with autism. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 47. doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2019.126511
Schofield, J., Scott, C., Spikins, P., & Wright, B. (2020). Autism spectrum condition and the built
environment: New perspectives on place attachment and cultural heritage. The Historic Environment: Policy & Practice, 1-28. https://doi.org/10.1080/17567505.2020.1699638
Seo, JH., Sungkajun, A. & Suh, J. (2015). Touchology: Towards interactive plant design for children
with autism and older adults in senior housing. CHI EA '15: Proceedings of the 33rd Annual ACM Conference Extended Abstracts on Human Factors in Computing Systems, 893–898. https://doi.org/10.1145/2702613.2732883.
Shannon, CA., Olsen, LL., Hole, R. & Rush, KL. (2021). “There’s nothing here”: Perspectives from rural
parents promoting safe active recreation for children living with autism spectrum disorders. Research in Developmental Disabilitie,s 115. doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2021.103998
Wagenfeld, A. (2021). The remarkable ways sensory gardens can help people with autism. Autism
Parenting Magazine.
Yuill, N., Strieth, S., Roake, C., Aspden, R. & Todd, B. (2007). Brief report: Designing a playground for
children with autistic spectrum disorders--effects on playful peer interactions. J Autism Dev Disord., 37(6), 1192-6. doi: 10.1007/s10803-006-0241-8
American Society of Landscape Architects. (2022a). Professional practice Children: Autism spectrum
disorders.
American Society of Landscape Architects. (2022b). Professional practice universal design.
Autism Nova Scotia. (2022). What is autism?
Battista, N. (2021). Cross-talk between food-borne Lactiplantibacillus (Lpb.) plantarum and the
endocannabinoid system towards autism spectrum disorder. Autism Research Institute.
Beela, GK. & Thankappan, H. (2021). Horticultural therapy program in Kerala improves the
emotional intelligence of school going children with autism spectrum disorder. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and ll International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development. doi: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1330.2
Chang, YY. & Chang, CY. (2010). The benefits of outdoor activities for children with autism. 16th
International Symposium on Society and Resource Management.
Coury, DL., Murray, DS., Fedele, A., Hess, T., Kelly, A. & Kuhlthau, K.A. (2020). The Autism Treatment
Network: Bringing best practices to all children with autism. American Academy of Pediatrics, 145(Supplement 1).
Fernelius, CL. (2017). Evidence-based practices for the design of inclusive playgrounds that
support peer interactions among children with all abilities. Master’s thesis, Utah State University. All Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 6809.
Fields, J. (2019). Autism spectrum disorder case study: Parker picks produce. In Haller, Kennedy and
Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press, 222-223.
Fleming, L. (2022). Autism tool kits. Digging In, 8(3), 12.
Flick, KM. (2012). The application of a horticultural therapy program for preschool children with
autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 22(1), 38-45.
Ford, A. (2018). Opening the door outside for students with autism spectrum disorder through
inclusive experiential education. https://doi.org/10.17615/0y4a-fn46
Gabaldo, M. (2019). Exhibit 7.1 Perspective and technique: Sensory processing. In Haller, Kennedy and
Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press, 148-149.
Gregor, S., Bruni, N., Grkinic, P., Schwartz, L., McDonald, A., Thille, P....Jachyra, P. (2018).
Parents’ perspectives of physical activity participation among Canadian adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 48(1), 53-62. doi: 10.1016/j.rasd.2018.01.007
Herbert, BB. (2003). Design guidelines of a therapeutic garden for autistic children. Louisiana State
University Digital Commons: Master’s Thesis.
Hickey, MA. (2016). Horticultural therapy intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder:
Creation and delivery of a manual for group treatment. Dissertation Alliant International University.
Jachyra, P., Renwick, R., Gladstone, B., Anagnostou, E. & Gibson, BE. (2020). Physical activity
participation among adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Autism, 25(3), 1-14. doi: 10.1177/1362361320949344
Khosravi, A., Khalili, A., Nayyeri Fallah, S. (2021). Spatial qualities supporting treatment process of
children with autism disorder. Armanshahr Architecture & Urban Development, 14(34), 101-114. doi: 10.22034/aaud.2020.182955.1858
Lee, GS., Yun, SY., Choi, HS. & Choi, BJ. (2018). Effects of color stimuli application in horticultural
therapy on the changes in challenging behaviors of the developmentally disabled. J. People Plant Environ., 21(4), 263-269. doi.org/10.11628/ksppe.2018.21.4.263 (this article includes autism)
Li, D., Larsen, L., Yang, Y., Wang, L., Zhai, Y., Sullivan, WC. (2019). Exposure to nature for children with
autism spectrum disorder: Benefits, caveats, and barriers. Health & Place, 55, 71-79. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2018.11.005
Minich, N. (2019). Program example: Biophilic design—A healing garden for adults with a range of
intellectual disabilities and autism. In Haller, Kennedy and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press, 284.
Priya, SV. (2022). Gardening therapy for children with autism. Autispark.
Ramshini, M., Hasanzadeh, S., Ali Afroz, G. & Razini, HH. (2018). The effect of family-centered nature
therapy on children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Rehabilitation, 19(2), 150-159.
Scartazzi, A., Mancini, ML., Proietti, S., Moscatello, S., Mattioni, C., Costantini, F., Di Baccio, C., Villani,
F. & Massacci, A. (2021). Caring for local biodiversity in a healing garden: Therapeutic benefits in young subjects with autism. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 47. doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2019.126511
Schofield, J., Scott, C., Spikins, P., & Wright, B. (2020). Autism spectrum condition and the built
environment: New perspectives on place attachment and cultural heritage. The Historic Environment: Policy & Practice, 1-28. https://doi.org/10.1080/17567505.2020.1699638
Seo, JH., Sungkajun, A. & Suh, J. (2015). Touchology: Towards interactive plant design for children
with autism and older adults in senior housing. CHI EA '15: Proceedings of the 33rd Annual ACM Conference Extended Abstracts on Human Factors in Computing Systems, 893–898. https://doi.org/10.1145/2702613.2732883.
Shannon, CA., Olsen, LL., Hole, R. & Rush, KL. (2021). “There’s nothing here”: Perspectives from rural
parents promoting safe active recreation for children living with autism spectrum disorders. Research in Developmental Disabilitie,s 115. doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2021.103998
Wagenfeld, A. (2021). The remarkable ways sensory gardens can help people with autism. Autism
Parenting Magazine.
Yuill, N., Strieth, S., Roake, C., Aspden, R. & Todd, B. (2007). Brief report: Designing a playground for
children with autistic spectrum disorders--effects on playful peer interactions. J Autism Dev Disord., 37(6), 1192-6. doi: 10.1007/s10803-006-0241-8
Examples of Autism Spectrum Disorder Populations & Programs
Adult Autism Center’s agriculture program teaches new skills, caring for plants outdoors & in greenhouse while promoting involvement in the Utah community.
Bittersweet Farms in Whitehouse, OH is a farm-based program for adults with autism.
Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow’s healing garden was specifically designed to support the needs of adults with autism & intellectual disabilities, to be used by clients of nearby Peaceful Living facility.
Denver Botanic Gardens hosts therapeutic horticulture sessions with a sensory processing focus including Sensory Adventures, Summer Low Sensory Mornings, & Sensory Processing & Autism Resource Kits.
Deveraux Advanced Behavioral Health New Jersey offers a vocational program teaching plant skills for adults with autism & developmental disabilities.
Dominion School for Autism participates in the vocational program at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond VA, where students volunteering at the garden supplementing their career and work experiences.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Miami FL offers Plants and People Horticultural Therapy Program for children with autism spectrum disorder & their families.
Legacy Farms offers individuals on the autism spectrum opportunities to garden.
Naples Botanical Garden hosts free Sensory-Friendly Saturdays throughout the year, certified as an Autism –Friendly venue through the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of South Florida.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, & Botanical Gardens takes autism awareness seriously by recognizing sensory stimulation & providing experiences in the Children’s Garden, knowing quiet places are important.
The Sensory Garden at the Els Center for Excellence (school) in Jupiter, FL is a 13,000 sq. ft. garden designed specifically for children with autism to play, socialize, & learn, with nooks called Places Away for calming spaces and more.
UK program in Oxford works with people with autism through it’s Into the Garden program teaching plant skills, while being aware of sensory inputs, and consideration for doing real tasks.
Bittersweet Farms in Whitehouse, OH is a farm-based program for adults with autism.
Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow’s healing garden was specifically designed to support the needs of adults with autism & intellectual disabilities, to be used by clients of nearby Peaceful Living facility.
Denver Botanic Gardens hosts therapeutic horticulture sessions with a sensory processing focus including Sensory Adventures, Summer Low Sensory Mornings, & Sensory Processing & Autism Resource Kits.
Deveraux Advanced Behavioral Health New Jersey offers a vocational program teaching plant skills for adults with autism & developmental disabilities.
Dominion School for Autism participates in the vocational program at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond VA, where students volunteering at the garden supplementing their career and work experiences.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Miami FL offers Plants and People Horticultural Therapy Program for children with autism spectrum disorder & their families.
Legacy Farms offers individuals on the autism spectrum opportunities to garden.
Naples Botanical Garden hosts free Sensory-Friendly Saturdays throughout the year, certified as an Autism –Friendly venue through the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of South Florida.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, & Botanical Gardens takes autism awareness seriously by recognizing sensory stimulation & providing experiences in the Children’s Garden, knowing quiet places are important.
The Sensory Garden at the Els Center for Excellence (school) in Jupiter, FL is a 13,000 sq. ft. garden designed specifically for children with autism to play, socialize, & learn, with nooks called Places Away for calming spaces and more.
UK program in Oxford works with people with autism through it’s Into the Garden program teaching plant skills, while being aware of sensory inputs, and consideration for doing real tasks.
Videos & webinars ON Autism Spectrum Disorder Populations & Programs
Denver Botanic Gardens’ sensory processing and autism resource kits available to visitors.
Evidence-based Practices for Autism website from the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder identifies best practices, models & resources.
Garden Therapy/Autism Awareness/Spring Vegetable Harvest video shows kids, some with autism, gardening & connecting with food.
Horticultural Therapy for Autism short video identifies benefits of this therapeutic modality.
The National Autistic Society – Gardens and Health video shows importance of their public garden, which supports volunteering, plantings & connecting with nature by people with autism.
Top 10 Studies of 2020 on Autism Research, identified by Autism Speaks, lists important research in areas of diagnosis, health disparities, outcomes for autistic adults, & genetic & biology.
Treatment and Intervention Services for Autism Spectrum Disorder website from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides an overview of types of treatments, and behavioral, developmental, educational, & social-relational approaches.
US Botanical Garden offers sensory bags for individuals with autism spectrum disorders to borrow, using its website- accessibility page to identify these services.
Wilmot Gardens Therapeutic Horticulture Program for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
Evidence-based Practices for Autism website from the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder identifies best practices, models & resources.
Garden Therapy/Autism Awareness/Spring Vegetable Harvest video shows kids, some with autism, gardening & connecting with food.
Horticultural Therapy for Autism short video identifies benefits of this therapeutic modality.
The National Autistic Society – Gardens and Health video shows importance of their public garden, which supports volunteering, plantings & connecting with nature by people with autism.
Top 10 Studies of 2020 on Autism Research, identified by Autism Speaks, lists important research in areas of diagnosis, health disparities, outcomes for autistic adults, & genetic & biology.
Treatment and Intervention Services for Autism Spectrum Disorder website from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides an overview of types of treatments, and behavioral, developmental, educational, & social-relational approaches.
US Botanical Garden offers sensory bags for individuals with autism spectrum disorders to borrow, using its website- accessibility page to identify these services.
Wilmot Gardens Therapeutic Horticulture Program for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming & Bree Stark, March 2023
Trauma Recovery & Plant-based Programs
Trauma is experienced by individuals and as collective communities and populations spanning a wide range of areas, types of trauma and with complex physical, emotional and cognitive health challenges. These include for example, post-traumatic stress for veterans, women veterans, military sexual trauma, and PTSD among ethnic minority veterans, psychological trauma for American Indians, Native Hawaiians & Americans of Japanese ancestry who served in Vietnam, and peacekeepers. Trauma can be experienced by people impacted by disaster, weather and climate extremes, and mass violence events, along with terrorist attacks, intimate partner violence, child abuse (sexual, physical), and human trafficking.
Trauma, defined by physician Gábor Maté is “a psychic injury, lodged in [the] nervous system, mind, and body, lasting long past the originating incident(s), triggerable at any moment…. trauma is what happens inside the individual not what happens to the individual” (Maté & Maté, 2022). This excerpt from Polacova et al. 2023 paper (publication pending in Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture) touches on related and important elements of trauma—trauma-informed care (TIC), core principles of TIC, and health interventions including horticultural therapy, therapeutic horticulture, and nature-based therapies. The literature on trauma identifies resiliency as a significant aspect of addressing trauma of all kinds, which is the capacity to make adaptations that result in positive outcomes in spite of serious experiences or adverse circumstances. Factors that support resiliency include supportive community, feeling of belonging, sense of worth, & caring adults (for children) (Vawnet.org, 2021).
Related topics of mental health & veterans populations and programs have related information, listed under category Populations/Horticulture Programs in Specific Settings.
Trauma is experienced by individuals and as collective communities and populations spanning a wide range of areas, types of trauma and with complex physical, emotional and cognitive health challenges. These include for example, post-traumatic stress for veterans, women veterans, military sexual trauma, and PTSD among ethnic minority veterans, psychological trauma for American Indians, Native Hawaiians & Americans of Japanese ancestry who served in Vietnam, and peacekeepers. Trauma can be experienced by people impacted by disaster, weather and climate extremes, and mass violence events, along with terrorist attacks, intimate partner violence, child abuse (sexual, physical), and human trafficking.
Trauma, defined by physician Gábor Maté is “a psychic injury, lodged in [the] nervous system, mind, and body, lasting long past the originating incident(s), triggerable at any moment…. trauma is what happens inside the individual not what happens to the individual” (Maté & Maté, 2022). This excerpt from Polacova et al. 2023 paper (publication pending in Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture) touches on related and important elements of trauma—trauma-informed care (TIC), core principles of TIC, and health interventions including horticultural therapy, therapeutic horticulture, and nature-based therapies. The literature on trauma identifies resiliency as a significant aspect of addressing trauma of all kinds, which is the capacity to make adaptations that result in positive outcomes in spite of serious experiences or adverse circumstances. Factors that support resiliency include supportive community, feeling of belonging, sense of worth, & caring adults (for children) (Vawnet.org, 2021).
Related topics of mental health & veterans populations and programs have related information, listed under category Populations/Horticulture Programs in Specific Settings.
Key organizations
Alliance to End Trafficking (ATEST)
American Trauma Society
Freedom from Torture
National Center for Trauma-informed Care (NCTIC)
National Center for PTSD
National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health
National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
Society of Trauma Nurses
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
The Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons (ICAT)
Trauma Healing Institute
Wounded Warriors in Action
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: PTSD: National Center for PTSD
American Trauma Society
Freedom from Torture
National Center for Trauma-informed Care (NCTIC)
National Center for PTSD
National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health
National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
Society of Trauma Nurses
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
The Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons (ICAT)
Trauma Healing Institute
Wounded Warriors in Action
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: PTSD: National Center for PTSD
BOOKS, JOURNALS & EPUBLICATIONS ON Trauma Recovery & Plant-based Programs
Coverdale, J.H., Gordon, M.R. & Nguyen, P.T. (2020). Human Trafficking - A Treatment Guide for Mental Health Professionals. American Psychiatric Association Publishing.
Fisher, J. (2021). Transforming the Living Legacy of Trauma: A Workbook for Survivors and Therapists. PESI Publishing & Media.
Grut, J. & Linden, S. (2002). The Healing Fields: Working with Psychotherapy and Nature to Rebuild Shattered Lives. Franklin Lincoln.
Journal of Trauma Nursing
Journal of Traumatic Stress
Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy (journal)
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014). Trauma-Informed
Care in Behavioral Health Services. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 57. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 13-4801., 63.
Trauma Care (journal)
Wise, J. (2015). Digging for Victory - Horticultural Therapy with Veterans for Post-Traumatic Growth. Routledge.
Fisher, J. (2021). Transforming the Living Legacy of Trauma: A Workbook for Survivors and Therapists. PESI Publishing & Media.
Grut, J. & Linden, S. (2002). The Healing Fields: Working with Psychotherapy and Nature to Rebuild Shattered Lives. Franklin Lincoln.
Journal of Trauma Nursing
Journal of Traumatic Stress
Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy (journal)
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014). Trauma-Informed
Care in Behavioral Health Services. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 57. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 13-4801., 63.
Trauma Care (journal)
Wise, J. (2015). Digging for Victory - Horticultural Therapy with Veterans for Post-Traumatic Growth. Routledge.
RESEARCH & ARTICLES ON Trauma Recovery & Plant-based Programs
Recently published selected research & articles:
Adams, S., Houston-Kolnik, J. & Reichert, J. (2017). Trauma-informed and evidence-based practices and programs to address trauma in correctional settings. Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.
Ades, V., Wu, SX., Rabinowitz, E., Chemouni Bach, S., Goddard, B., Pearson Ayala, S. & Greene, J. (2019 April). An integrated, trauma-informed care model for female survivors of sexual violence: The Engage, Motivate, Protect, Organize, Self-Worth, Educate, Respect (EMPOWER) Clinic. Obstet Gynecol., 133(4), 803-809. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000003186
American Hospital Association. (2019). What is trauma-informed care?
Bahamonde, A. (2019). Mental health through the art of gardening. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(2).
Branco, P. (2018). How can therapeutic horticulture help meet the complex needs of domestic violence survivors and their children? VAWnet – A project of the National Resource Centre on Domestic Violence.
Cacciatore, J., Gorman, R. & Thieleman, K. (2020, Mar). Evaluating care farming as a means to care for those in trauma and grief. Health Place, 62, 102281. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2019.102281
Casassa, K., Knight, L. & Mengo, C. (2021). Trauma bonding perspectives from service providers and survivors of sex trafficking: A scoping review. SAGE Journals, Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 23(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838020985542
Center for Health Care Strategies. (2021). What is trauma-informed care?
Chaudhury P. & Banerjee, D. (2020). Recovering with nature: A review of ecotherapy and implications for the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health., 8, 604440. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.604440
Chen, E.Y., Robichaux, K., Gordon M.R., Coverdale, J.H., Shah, A., Davis, M.P. & Nguyen, P.T. (2023). A pilot program’s healthcare response to human trafficking in Houston, Texas. Journal of Human Trafficking, 9(1), 119-129. doi: 10.1080/23322705.2020.1865095
Cipriani, J., Benz, A., Holmgren, A. et al. (2022). A systematic review of the effects of horticultural therapy on persons with mental health conditions. Occupational Therapy Mental Health, 33(1), 47-69.
Corrigan, F.M., Fisher, I.I. & Nutt, D.J. (2010). Autonomic dysregulation and the Window of Tolerance model of the effects of complex emotional trauma. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(1). https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881109354930
Department of Health & Human Service USA (DHHS) (nd.). Resources: Common health issues seen in victims of human trafficking.
Detweiler, M.B., Self, J.A., Lane, S., Spencer, L., Lutgens, B., Kim, D.Y., Halling, M.H., Rudder, T.C. & Lehmann, L.P. (2015). Horticultural therapy: A pilot study on modulating cortisol levels and indices of substance craving, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and quality of life in veterans. Altern Ther Health Med., 21(4), 36-41.
Duquesne University. (2020). What are the 6 principles of trauma-informed care?
Fleming, L., Bethel, M. & Roberts, T. (2023). Self-Regulation, its neuroscience foundations and horticultural therapy: Growing the connections. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 33(1).
Fleming, L. & Wilson, C. (2021). Compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue. Digging In, 7(4), 1-3.
Gilgoff, R., Singh, L., Koita, K., Gentile, B. & Marques, S.S. (2020, April). Adverse childhood experiences, outcomes, and interventions. Pediatr Clin North Am., 67(2), 259-273. doi:10.1016/j.pcl.2019.12.001
Grahn, P., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Ottosson, J. & Jonsdottir, I.H. (2017). Longer nature-based rehabilitation may contribute to a faster return to work in patients with reactions to severe stress and/or depression. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(11), 131.
Hart, B. & Zanskas, S. (2021). Cultivating care: Trauma, homeless veterans, and nature-based therapy. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1).
Hastings, T. (2016). Combining trauma-focused treatments with horticultural therapy. Pacific Quest.
LaRocque, C. (2019). Program example: The interface between horticultural therapy, trauma treatment and somatic-oriented mental health therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.), The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Laverdure, J.L. (2022). Project HOME: A novel nature-based therapy approach for the treatment of veterans with trauma. Psychology Doctoral Specialization Projects. 19.
Lorber, H.Z. (2011). The use of horticulture in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in a private practice setting. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 21(1).
McCord, C. (2017). Landscape architecture and neuroplasticity: A role for design in addressing theimpact of early childhood trauma. CELA Conference Proceedings 2017.
Melton, H., Meader, N., Dale, H., Wright, K., Jones-Diette, J., Temple, M., Shah, I., Lovell, K., McMillan, D., Churchill, R., Barbui, C., Gilbody, S. & Coventry, P. (2020). Interventions for adults with a history of complex traumatic events: The INCiTE mixed-methods systematic review. Health Technol Assess., 24(43), 1-312. doi: 10.3310/hta24430
Mottershead, R. & Ghisoni, M. (2021). Horticultural therapy, nutrition and post-traumatic stress disorder in post-military veterans: Developing non-pharmaceutical interventions to complement existing therapeutic approaches. F1000Research 10, 885. https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.70643.1
Munson, J. (2023). Therapeutic horticulture: A trauma-informed approach to mental well-being within a psychiatric hospital. Cultivate, 3(2), 9-11.
Nadeau, M. (2019). The role of horticultural therapy in the treatment of refugees with post-traumatic stress disorder. Digital Commons.liberty.edu
Olszewska-Guizzo, A., Fogel, A., Escoffier, N., Sia, A., Nakazawa, K., Kumagai, A., Dan, I. & Ho, R. (2022). Therapeutic garden with contemplative features induces desirable changes in mood and brain activity in depressed adults. Front Psychiatry., 13, 757056. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.757056
Phillips, S.B. (2021). 5 reasons gardening can help to heal trauma. Psychology Today.
Poláčková, Z. (2023). Horticultural therapy with female survivors of human trafficking. Cultivate, 3(4), 1-6.
Poláčková, Z., Fleming, L., Brown, J. & Kelejian, H. (20xx). Horticultural therapy health intervention with female survivors of human trafficking: Program models. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture (publication pending).
Poulsen, D.V., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Christensen, S.I., Wilson, L. & Uldall, S.W. (2020). Therapeutic nature activities: A step toward the labor market for traumatized refugees. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(20), 7542.
Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K. & Refshage, A.D. (2015). Whatever happened to the soldiers? Nature-assisted therapies for veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder: A literature review. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 14(2), 438-445. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2015.03.009
Ramaj, K., (2021). The aftermath of human trafficking: Exploring the Albanian victims’ return, rehabilitation, and reintegration challenges. Journal of Human Trafficking. doi: 10.1080/23322705.2021.1920823
Renzetti, C. M. & Follingstad, D. (2015). From blue to green: The development and implementation of a therapeutic horticulture program for residents of a battered women’s shelter. Violence and Victims, 30(4).
Renzetti, C.M., Follingstad, D. & Fleet, D. (2017). Nine Innovative Programs to Economically Empower Women and Prevent Intimate Partner Violence Revictimization. In Renzetti, Follingstad & Coker (Eds), Preventing Intimate Partner Violence: Interdisciplinary Perspectives (Bristol, 2017; online ed., Policy Press Scholarship Online, 18 Jan. 2018), https://doi.org/10.1332/policypress/9781447333050.003.0009
Rousseau, D. (2021). Horticultural therapy: Plant care as a means of dealing with stress and trauma? Boston University.
Shao, Y., Elsadek, M. & Liu, B. (2020). Horticultural activity: Its contribution to stress recovery and wellbeing for children. International Journal Environ Res Public Health., 17(4), 1229. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17041229
Silva-Rodriguez Bonazzi, D. & Febles, A. (2022). Horticultural therapy program for trauma survivors. Horticultural Therapy Institute (htinstitute.org)
Sperry, M. (2020). Thyme for kids in Kansas City, MO. AHTA Magazine, 48(1), 10.
Stone Rice, J. (2019). Chapter 6 Brain, mind, and relationship implications for horticultural therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.), The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (2012). TF-CBT: Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Trauth, J.N., Harris, K. & Jackson, N. (2023). Using trauma-informed care and horticulture therapy with college students: A counseling approach modeled after a refugee resettlement community. In Alexander-Ashley (Ed.), Practical Strategies to Reduce Childhood Trauma and Mitigate Exposure to the School-to-Prison Pipeline, 66-82. IGI Global.
University of Washington. (2018). Healing & therapy [Crisis recovery & resilience]. Green Cities: Good Health.
Vawnet. (2021). Research on resiliency. National Resource Center on Domestic Violence.
Watkins, M.S., Teh, L.A. & Fernandez, K.T.G. (2019). Exploring the use of therapeutic horticulture to enhance the psychological well-being of female survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(1).
Wise, J. (2019). Perspective: Using horticultural therapy to recover from trauma. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.), The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Adams, S., Houston-Kolnik, J. & Reichert, J. (2017). Trauma-informed and evidence-based practices and programs to address trauma in correctional settings. Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.
Ades, V., Wu, SX., Rabinowitz, E., Chemouni Bach, S., Goddard, B., Pearson Ayala, S. & Greene, J. (2019 April). An integrated, trauma-informed care model for female survivors of sexual violence: The Engage, Motivate, Protect, Organize, Self-Worth, Educate, Respect (EMPOWER) Clinic. Obstet Gynecol., 133(4), 803-809. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000003186
American Hospital Association. (2019). What is trauma-informed care?
Bahamonde, A. (2019). Mental health through the art of gardening. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(2).
Branco, P. (2018). How can therapeutic horticulture help meet the complex needs of domestic violence survivors and their children? VAWnet – A project of the National Resource Centre on Domestic Violence.
Cacciatore, J., Gorman, R. & Thieleman, K. (2020, Mar). Evaluating care farming as a means to care for those in trauma and grief. Health Place, 62, 102281. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2019.102281
Casassa, K., Knight, L. & Mengo, C. (2021). Trauma bonding perspectives from service providers and survivors of sex trafficking: A scoping review. SAGE Journals, Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 23(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/1524838020985542
Center for Health Care Strategies. (2021). What is trauma-informed care?
Chaudhury P. & Banerjee, D. (2020). Recovering with nature: A review of ecotherapy and implications for the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health., 8, 604440. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.604440
Chen, E.Y., Robichaux, K., Gordon M.R., Coverdale, J.H., Shah, A., Davis, M.P. & Nguyen, P.T. (2023). A pilot program’s healthcare response to human trafficking in Houston, Texas. Journal of Human Trafficking, 9(1), 119-129. doi: 10.1080/23322705.2020.1865095
Cipriani, J., Benz, A., Holmgren, A. et al. (2022). A systematic review of the effects of horticultural therapy on persons with mental health conditions. Occupational Therapy Mental Health, 33(1), 47-69.
Corrigan, F.M., Fisher, I.I. & Nutt, D.J. (2010). Autonomic dysregulation and the Window of Tolerance model of the effects of complex emotional trauma. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25(1). https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881109354930
Department of Health & Human Service USA (DHHS) (nd.). Resources: Common health issues seen in victims of human trafficking.
Detweiler, M.B., Self, J.A., Lane, S., Spencer, L., Lutgens, B., Kim, D.Y., Halling, M.H., Rudder, T.C. & Lehmann, L.P. (2015). Horticultural therapy: A pilot study on modulating cortisol levels and indices of substance craving, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and quality of life in veterans. Altern Ther Health Med., 21(4), 36-41.
Duquesne University. (2020). What are the 6 principles of trauma-informed care?
Fleming, L., Bethel, M. & Roberts, T. (2023). Self-Regulation, its neuroscience foundations and horticultural therapy: Growing the connections. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 33(1).
Fleming, L. & Wilson, C. (2021). Compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue. Digging In, 7(4), 1-3.
Gilgoff, R., Singh, L., Koita, K., Gentile, B. & Marques, S.S. (2020, April). Adverse childhood experiences, outcomes, and interventions. Pediatr Clin North Am., 67(2), 259-273. doi:10.1016/j.pcl.2019.12.001
Grahn, P., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Ottosson, J. & Jonsdottir, I.H. (2017). Longer nature-based rehabilitation may contribute to a faster return to work in patients with reactions to severe stress and/or depression. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(11), 131.
Hart, B. & Zanskas, S. (2021). Cultivating care: Trauma, homeless veterans, and nature-based therapy. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1).
Hastings, T. (2016). Combining trauma-focused treatments with horticultural therapy. Pacific Quest.
LaRocque, C. (2019). Program example: The interface between horticultural therapy, trauma treatment and somatic-oriented mental health therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.), The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Laverdure, J.L. (2022). Project HOME: A novel nature-based therapy approach for the treatment of veterans with trauma. Psychology Doctoral Specialization Projects. 19.
Lorber, H.Z. (2011). The use of horticulture in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in a private practice setting. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 21(1).
McCord, C. (2017). Landscape architecture and neuroplasticity: A role for design in addressing theimpact of early childhood trauma. CELA Conference Proceedings 2017.
Melton, H., Meader, N., Dale, H., Wright, K., Jones-Diette, J., Temple, M., Shah, I., Lovell, K., McMillan, D., Churchill, R., Barbui, C., Gilbody, S. & Coventry, P. (2020). Interventions for adults with a history of complex traumatic events: The INCiTE mixed-methods systematic review. Health Technol Assess., 24(43), 1-312. doi: 10.3310/hta24430
Mottershead, R. & Ghisoni, M. (2021). Horticultural therapy, nutrition and post-traumatic stress disorder in post-military veterans: Developing non-pharmaceutical interventions to complement existing therapeutic approaches. F1000Research 10, 885. https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.70643.1
Munson, J. (2023). Therapeutic horticulture: A trauma-informed approach to mental well-being within a psychiatric hospital. Cultivate, 3(2), 9-11.
Nadeau, M. (2019). The role of horticultural therapy in the treatment of refugees with post-traumatic stress disorder. Digital Commons.liberty.edu
Olszewska-Guizzo, A., Fogel, A., Escoffier, N., Sia, A., Nakazawa, K., Kumagai, A., Dan, I. & Ho, R. (2022). Therapeutic garden with contemplative features induces desirable changes in mood and brain activity in depressed adults. Front Psychiatry., 13, 757056. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.757056
Phillips, S.B. (2021). 5 reasons gardening can help to heal trauma. Psychology Today.
Poláčková, Z. (2023). Horticultural therapy with female survivors of human trafficking. Cultivate, 3(4), 1-6.
Poláčková, Z., Fleming, L., Brown, J. & Kelejian, H. (20xx). Horticultural therapy health intervention with female survivors of human trafficking: Program models. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture (publication pending).
Poulsen, D.V., Pálsdóttir, A.M., Christensen, S.I., Wilson, L. & Uldall, S.W. (2020). Therapeutic nature activities: A step toward the labor market for traumatized refugees. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(20), 7542.
Poulsen, D.V., Stigsdotter, U.K. & Refshage, A.D. (2015). Whatever happened to the soldiers? Nature-assisted therapies for veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder: A literature review. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 14(2), 438-445. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2015.03.009
Ramaj, K., (2021). The aftermath of human trafficking: Exploring the Albanian victims’ return, rehabilitation, and reintegration challenges. Journal of Human Trafficking. doi: 10.1080/23322705.2021.1920823
Renzetti, C. M. & Follingstad, D. (2015). From blue to green: The development and implementation of a therapeutic horticulture program for residents of a battered women’s shelter. Violence and Victims, 30(4).
Renzetti, C.M., Follingstad, D. & Fleet, D. (2017). Nine Innovative Programs to Economically Empower Women and Prevent Intimate Partner Violence Revictimization. In Renzetti, Follingstad & Coker (Eds), Preventing Intimate Partner Violence: Interdisciplinary Perspectives (Bristol, 2017; online ed., Policy Press Scholarship Online, 18 Jan. 2018), https://doi.org/10.1332/policypress/9781447333050.003.0009
Rousseau, D. (2021). Horticultural therapy: Plant care as a means of dealing with stress and trauma? Boston University.
Shao, Y., Elsadek, M. & Liu, B. (2020). Horticultural activity: Its contribution to stress recovery and wellbeing for children. International Journal Environ Res Public Health., 17(4), 1229. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17041229
Silva-Rodriguez Bonazzi, D. & Febles, A. (2022). Horticultural therapy program for trauma survivors. Horticultural Therapy Institute (htinstitute.org)
Sperry, M. (2020). Thyme for kids in Kansas City, MO. AHTA Magazine, 48(1), 10.
Stone Rice, J. (2019). Chapter 6 Brain, mind, and relationship implications for horticultural therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.), The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (2012). TF-CBT: Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Trauth, J.N., Harris, K. & Jackson, N. (2023). Using trauma-informed care and horticulture therapy with college students: A counseling approach modeled after a refugee resettlement community. In Alexander-Ashley (Ed.), Practical Strategies to Reduce Childhood Trauma and Mitigate Exposure to the School-to-Prison Pipeline, 66-82. IGI Global.
University of Washington. (2018). Healing & therapy [Crisis recovery & resilience]. Green Cities: Good Health.
Vawnet. (2021). Research on resiliency. National Resource Center on Domestic Violence.
Watkins, M.S., Teh, L.A. & Fernandez, K.T.G. (2019). Exploring the use of therapeutic horticulture to enhance the psychological well-being of female survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 29(1).
Wise, J. (2019). Perspective: Using horticultural therapy to recover from trauma. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.), The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
EXAMPLES OF Trauma Recovery & Plant-based Programs
Building a Personal Connection with Nature program for female survivors of human trafficking is delivered by A Safe Place community agency, North Carolina Master Gardeners and the NHC Arboretum In North Carolina with goals of helping women feel safe in a public space, in this case, a public garden, and to foster a sense of resiliency through nature-based activities.
Cornerstones of Care, Kansas City, MO, provides residential inpatient treatment & a therapeutic school for youth with emotional & behavioral challenges due to childhood trauma, with plant-based programs.
Healing Garden at Chamchamal, Iraq, run by the Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights provides care for Yezidi & other traumatized individuals, with an international team of HTs providing training to psychotherapists to become registered in HT in the German model.
Mensajeros de la Paz in Lima, Peru, Spanish non-profit runs programs including therapeutic horticulture, promoting resilience in children impacted by poverty, domestic violence & other early childhood traumas.
Refugee Trauma and Resilience Center at Boston Children’s Hospital offers resources for promoting healthy adjustment of refugee children and adolescents who have resettled in the US including research, programs, partnerships in the community & plant-based programming.
The GreenHouse Program at Rikers Island Correctional Facility, NY, in conjunction with the Horticultural Society of NY, uses a restorative garden environment & HT programming working with incarcerated individuals who have experienced trauma & other health challenges.
Sanctuary Farm in Philadelphia, PA, addresses health inequities from systemic racial oppression & economic injustice by transforming neglected space into urban green spaces; a therapeutic horticulture program for veterans is also offered.
Seraaj Family Homes, Inc. in Waugh, Alabama partners with The Grandma Home House Retreat providing a therapeutic sanctuary to foster interaction & wellness for foster & adopted children & their families.
The Petria’s Place Healing Garden, at the UCAN campus in Chicago, IL, a social service and youth development agency residential youth center addresses unstable living situations, emotional distress or trauma by providing therapeutic support; services include therapeutic horticulture.
University of California Irvine (UCI) CARE Therapeutic Horticulture Program workshop People & Plant Care, was a pilot session for UCI CARE for those who identified as survivors of violence and who were seeking tools for personal growth and restoration.
University of Kentucky Center for Research on Violence Against Women (CRVAW), with funding from Dept of Justice, are studying the benefits of therapeutic horticulture at Greenhouse 17, Central Kentucky’s women’s shelter.
Vogel Alcove childcare center in Dallas, TX, works with children affected by homelessness including related traumatic experiences in The Backyard garden onsite.
Cornerstones of Care, Kansas City, MO, provides residential inpatient treatment & a therapeutic school for youth with emotional & behavioral challenges due to childhood trauma, with plant-based programs.
Healing Garden at Chamchamal, Iraq, run by the Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights provides care for Yezidi & other traumatized individuals, with an international team of HTs providing training to psychotherapists to become registered in HT in the German model.
Mensajeros de la Paz in Lima, Peru, Spanish non-profit runs programs including therapeutic horticulture, promoting resilience in children impacted by poverty, domestic violence & other early childhood traumas.
Refugee Trauma and Resilience Center at Boston Children’s Hospital offers resources for promoting healthy adjustment of refugee children and adolescents who have resettled in the US including research, programs, partnerships in the community & plant-based programming.
The GreenHouse Program at Rikers Island Correctional Facility, NY, in conjunction with the Horticultural Society of NY, uses a restorative garden environment & HT programming working with incarcerated individuals who have experienced trauma & other health challenges.
Sanctuary Farm in Philadelphia, PA, addresses health inequities from systemic racial oppression & economic injustice by transforming neglected space into urban green spaces; a therapeutic horticulture program for veterans is also offered.
Seraaj Family Homes, Inc. in Waugh, Alabama partners with The Grandma Home House Retreat providing a therapeutic sanctuary to foster interaction & wellness for foster & adopted children & their families.
The Petria’s Place Healing Garden, at the UCAN campus in Chicago, IL, a social service and youth development agency residential youth center addresses unstable living situations, emotional distress or trauma by providing therapeutic support; services include therapeutic horticulture.
University of California Irvine (UCI) CARE Therapeutic Horticulture Program workshop People & Plant Care, was a pilot session for UCI CARE for those who identified as survivors of violence and who were seeking tools for personal growth and restoration.
University of Kentucky Center for Research on Violence Against Women (CRVAW), with funding from Dept of Justice, are studying the benefits of therapeutic horticulture at Greenhouse 17, Central Kentucky’s women’s shelter.
Vogel Alcove childcare center in Dallas, TX, works with children affected by homelessness including related traumatic experiences in The Backyard garden onsite.
VIDEOS & WEBINARS ON Trauma Recovery & Plant-based Programs
Course PTSD Overview and Treatment from U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs
Mental Health Center of Denver (MHCD) services incorporate HT for trauma treatment; HT practitioner Carol LaRocque narrates YouTube video on their HT program.
ILGA Database - Mental Health and Human Rights Info from Freedom from Torture – Medical Foundation for the Care of Victims of Torture lists resources on this topic.
PTSD UK website raises awareness of PTSD with resources on causes, triggers, symptoms & treatments including connecting with nature.
Types of Trauma website resources from U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs
Vawnet. (2021). Research on resiliency. National Resource Center on Domestic Violence has digital
resources focused on resiliency.
Mental Health Center of Denver (MHCD) services incorporate HT for trauma treatment; HT practitioner Carol LaRocque narrates YouTube video on their HT program.
ILGA Database - Mental Health and Human Rights Info from Freedom from Torture – Medical Foundation for the Care of Victims of Torture lists resources on this topic.
PTSD UK website raises awareness of PTSD with resources on causes, triggers, symptoms & treatments including connecting with nature.
Types of Trauma website resources from U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs
Vawnet. (2021). Research on resiliency. National Resource Center on Domestic Violence has digital
resources focused on resiliency.
RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
Written & compiled by Lesley Fleming and Zuzana Polackova; posted by Susan Morgan, Sept. 2023
Mental Health
Horticulture for health activities with mental health populations span the broad area of mental health and the diverse scope of horticulture for health. These include programs, gardens, treatment and recreation interventions, nutrition, and social engagement to name a few. The focus of these resources relate to plant-based programs used with mental health populations. These resources are not the definitive list, but will provide an overview of the breadth and range of populations, programs, and gardens.
The approach used for the Florida Horticulture for Health Network’s Resource Hub has been to separate out some mental health areas where research and programming have been robust, providing a separate page of resources. These include (or will include) eating disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, and autism spectrum disorder. Mental health services are very broad and the organizing structure used in this category has been to break the services down by facilities utilizing horticultural therapy with mental health populations, specific treatment areas, and general mental health and wellbeing programs. Cooper Marcus comments on mental and behavioral populations: “due to the breadth of issues associated with mental illness, each and every [garden] design decision must be specific to the population being served” (Cooper Marcus & Sachs, 2014).
Horticulture for health activities with mental health populations span the broad area of mental health and the diverse scope of horticulture for health. These include programs, gardens, treatment and recreation interventions, nutrition, and social engagement to name a few. The focus of these resources relate to plant-based programs used with mental health populations. These resources are not the definitive list, but will provide an overview of the breadth and range of populations, programs, and gardens.
The approach used for the Florida Horticulture for Health Network’s Resource Hub has been to separate out some mental health areas where research and programming have been robust, providing a separate page of resources. These include (or will include) eating disorders, trauma, substance use disorders, and autism spectrum disorder. Mental health services are very broad and the organizing structure used in this category has been to break the services down by facilities utilizing horticultural therapy with mental health populations, specific treatment areas, and general mental health and wellbeing programs. Cooper Marcus comments on mental and behavioral populations: “due to the breadth of issues associated with mental illness, each and every [garden] design decision must be specific to the population being served” (Cooper Marcus & Sachs, 2014).
Key organizations
BOOKS, JOURNALS & EPUBLICATIONS ON MENTAL hEALTH
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). DOI: 10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N. (2014). Therapeutic landscapes: An evidence-based approach to designing healing gardens and restorative outdoor spaces. John Wiley and Sons. Inc.
Etherington, N. (2012). Gardening for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Special Educational
Needs. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) (2019). The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC
Press.
McGreeney. A. (2016). With Nature in Mind: The Ecotherapy Manual for Mental Health Professionals.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N. (2014). Therapeutic landscapes: An evidence-based approach to designing healing gardens and restorative outdoor spaces. John Wiley and Sons. Inc.
Etherington, N. (2012). Gardening for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Special Educational
Needs. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) (2019). The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC
Press.
McGreeney. A. (2016). With Nature in Mind: The Ecotherapy Manual for Mental Health Professionals.
RESEARCH & ARTICLES ON MENTAL hEALTH
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Abbott A. (2021). COVID's mental-health toll: Scientists track surge in depression. Nature 590:194–5. 10.1038/d41586-021-00175-z.
Ainamani, H.E., Gumisiriza, N., Bamwerinde, W.M. & Rukundo, G.Z. (2022). Gardening activity and its
relationship to mental health: Understudied and untapped in low-and middle-income countries. Preventive Medicine Reports, 29, 101946. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101946.
Bahamonde, A. (2019). Mental health through the art of gardening. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 29(2).
Boomfield, D. (2017). What makes nature-based interventions for mental health successful? BJPsych.
International 14(4):82-85. doi: 10.1192/S2056474000002063.
Briggs, R., Morris, P.G. & Rees, K. (2023, Aug.). The effectiveness of group-based gardening interventions for improving wellbeing and reducing symptoms of mental ill-health in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ment Health., 32(4), 787-804. DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2022.2118687.
Buckley, RC. & Brough, P. (2017). Nature, eco, and adventure therapies for mental health and chronic disease. Frontiers in Public Health. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2017.00220.
Chavaly, D. & Naachimuthu, KP. (2020). Human-nature connection and mental health: What do we know so far? Indian Journal of Health and Wellbeing 11(1). doi: 10.15614/IJHW.v11i01/18.
Clatsworthy, J., Hinds, JM. & Camic, P. (2013). Gardening as a mental health intervention: A review. Mental Health Review Journal 18(4):214-25.
Diener, E., Wirtz, D., Tov, W., Kim-Prieto, C., Choi, D., Oishi, S. & Biswas-Diener, R. (2010). New measures of well-being: Flourishing and positive and negative feelings. Social Indicators Research, 39, 247-266.
Fleming, L., Bethel, M. & Roberts, T. (2023). Self-regulation, its neuroscience foundations and horticultural therapy: Growing the connections. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture. (publication pending)
Hart, B. & Zanskas, S. (2021). Cultivating care: Trauma, homeless veterans, and nature-based therapy. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1), 25-38.
Kristjansdottir, H.L., Sigurdardottir, S. & Palsdottir, AM. (2021). The participant’s experience of performing horticulture activities in vocational rehabilitation. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Loftus EI, Lachaud J, Hwang SW, Mejia-Lancheros C. (2021). Food insecurity and mental health outcomes among homeless adults: a scoping review. Public Health Nutr. 24(7):1766-1777. https://doi.org/10.1017/ s1368980020001998.
Mariani, R., Renzi, A., Di Monte, C., Petrovska, E. & Di Trani, M. (2021). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary emotional systems and emotional regulation. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(11), 5742. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18115742.
Meore, A., Sun, S., Byma, L., Alter, S., Vitale, A., Podolak, E., Gibbard, B., Adams, T., Boyer, J., Galfalvy, H., Yehuda, R., Feder, A. & Haghighi F. (2021). Pilot evaluation of horticultural therapy in improving overall wellness in veterans with history of suicidality. Complementary Therapies in Medicine 59:102728. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102728.
Noone, S., Innes, A., Kelly, F. & Mayers, A. (2017). ‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia. Dementia, 16(7), 897-910.
Park, SA. (2020). Indoor green plants are beneficial to mental health. AHTA Magazine 48(3):4-5.
Pourmotabbed A, Moradi S, Babaei A, Ghavami A, Mohammadi H, Jalili C et al. (2020). Food insecurity and mental health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Public Health Nutr. 2020; 23(10):1778-1790. https://doi.org/10.1017/ s136898001900435x.
Spano, G., D’Este, M., Giannico, V., Carrus, G., Elia, M., Lafortezza, R., Panno, A. & Sanesi, G. (2020). Are community gardening and horticultural interventions beneficial for psychosocial well-being? A meta-analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17 (10):3584.
Theodoron, A., Panno, A., Carrus., G., Carobone, G.A., Massulo, C. & Imperatori, C. (2021). Stay home, stay safe, stay green: The role of gardening activities on mental health during the COVID-19 home confinement. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening 61:127091.
Thomson, L.J., Morse, N., Elsden, E., & Chatterjee, H.J. (2020). Art, nature and mental health: assessing the biopsychosocial effects of a ‘creative green prescription’ museum programme involving horticulture, artmaking and collections. Perspectives in Public Health 140(5): 277-285. DOI: 10.1177/1757913920910443.
Tu, H.M. (2022). Effect of horticultural therapy on mental health: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing.
Watkins, M., The, LA., & Fernandez, KTG. (2019). Exploring the use of therapeutic horticulture to enhance the psychological well-being of female survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 29(1).
Zhang, X., Zhang, Y., & Zhai, J. (2021). Home Garden With Eco-Healing Functions Benefiting Mental Health and Biodiversity During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. Frontiers in public health, 9, 740187. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.740187.
Zhong, Y.Q. & Tu, H.M. (2020). Horticultural activity type, psychological well-being, and fruit and vegetable intake. Nutrients 12(11):3296. doi: 10.3390/nu12113296.
Mental Health Challenges and Specific Disorders
Ascencio, J. (2019). Horticultural therapy as an intervention for schizophrenia: A review. Alternative and Complementary Therapies, 25(4), 194-200.
Chan, S. (2015). GPs prescribe gardening to help mental health patients. GP. www.gponline.com/gps-
prescribe-gardening-help-mental-health-patients/mentalhealth/article/1348669.
Chen, H. (2021). The effect of horticultural therapy in depression intervention. Journal of Landscape Research, 13(6), 13-22.
Christie, M., Cole, F. & Miller. P.K. (2020). A piloted think aloud method within an investigation of the impacts of a therapeutic green exercise project for people recovering from mental ill-heath: Reflections on ethnographic utililty. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 30(1).
Christie, M. A., Thomson, M., Miller, P.K. & Cole, F. (2016). Personality disorder and intellectual disability: The impacts of horticultural therapy within a medium-secure unit. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 26(1).
Cipriani, J., Benz, A., Holmgren, A., Kinter, D., McGarry, J. & Rufino, G. (2017). A systematic review of the effects of horticultural therapy on persons with mental health conditions. Occup. Ther. Ment. Health. 33:47–69. doi: 10.1080/0164212X.2016.1231602.
Corazon, S.S., Nyed, P.K., Sidenius, U., Poulsen, D.V. & Stigsdotter, U.K. (2018). A long-term follow-up of the efficacy of nature-based therapy for adults suffering from stress-related illnesses on levels of healthcare consumption and sick-leave absence: A randomized controlled trial. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 15(1), 137. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15010137.
Curzio, O., Billeci, L., Belmonti, V., Colantonio, S., Cotrozzi, L., De Pasquale, CF., Morales, MA., Nali, C., Pascali, MA., Venturi, F., Tonacci, A., Zannoni, N., Maestro, S. (2022, Dec.). Horticultural therapy may reduce psychological and physiological stress in adolescents with anorexia nervosa: A pilot study. Nutrients, 7(24), 5198. doi: 10.3390/nu14245198.
Detweiler, M.B., Self, J.A., Lane, S., Spencer L., Lutgens, B., Kim, D.Y., Halling, M.H., Rudder, T.C. & Lehmann, T L.P. (2015). Horticultural therapy: A pilot study on modulating cortisol levels and indices of substance craving, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and quality of life in veterans. Altern Ther Health Med., 21(4), 36-41.
Eum, E.Y. & Kim, H.S. (2016). Effects of a horticultural therapy program on self-efficacy, stress response, and psychiatric symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Journal of Korean Academy of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 25(1), 48-57.
Flick, KM. (2012). The application of a horticultural therapy program for preschool children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 22:38-45.
Freedle, LR. & Slagle, T. (2018). Applications of the neurosequential model of therapeutics in an integrative outdoor behavioral healthcare program for adolescents and young adults. Proceedings of the Second International Neurosequential Model Symposium. CF Learning Press.
Han, A.R., Park, SA. & Ahn, B.E. (2018). Reduced stress and improved physical functional ability in elderly with mental health problems following a horticultural therapy program. Complement Ther Med. 38:19-23. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.03.011.
He, H., Yu, Y., Li, J., Hu, L. & Zhou, F. (2020). Edible horticultural therapy for the rehabilitation of long-
term hospitalized female schizophrenic patients. HortScience, 55(5), 699-702.
Kenmochi, T., Kenmochi, A. & Hoshiyama, M. (2019). The effects of horticultural therapy on symptoms and future perspective of patients with schizophrenia in the chronic stage. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 29(1).
Kim, H.H., Choi, B.S. & Sung, J.E. (2022). Effects of a horticultural therapy program for patients with mental illness. Journal of Korean Academy of psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 31(2), 219-229.
Kontos, K., Koutsou, S., Sismanidi, A., Theodoropoulou, N. & Nikolopoulou, V. et al., (2021). The effects of horticultural therapy on the functionality of psychotic patients employed in the green unit of the psychiatric hospital of Thessaloniki Greece. European Psychiatry 64(S1):S506-S506. doi: 10.1192/eurpsy.2021.i354.
Korah, T, Morrison, D, Mason, D, Diehl, ER. & Bussing, R. (2021). Therapeutic horticulture as a therapeutic intervention in patients receiving electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment for major depressive disorder. Cureus 13(8):e17363. doi: 10.7759/cureus.17363.
Kusumawaty, I. & Yunike, P. (2020). The complexity of caring for people with mental disorders: Family challenges in contributing to horticultural therapy. Pakistan J Med Heal Sci, 14, 1442-6.
LaRoque, C. (2019). Program example: The interface between horticultural therapy trauma treatment and somatic-oriented mental health therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy (132-133). CRC Press.
Liu, T., LI, M., Ji, Q., Chen, Y., Li, C., Zhou, F., ... & He, H. (2022). Value of edible horticultural therapy for schizophrenic. Food Science and Technology, 42.
Lu, S., Zhao, Y., Liu, J., Xu, F. & Wang, Z. (2021). Effectiveness of horticultural therapy in people with
schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 18(3):964. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18030964.
Martínez-González, M.A. & Sánchez-Villegas, A. (2016). Food patterns and the prevention of depression. Proc Nutr Soc. 75(2):139-46. doi: 10.1017/S0029665116000045.
Masterton, W., Carver, H., Parkes, T. & Park, K. (2020). Greenspace interventions for mental health in clinical and non-clinical populations: What works, for whom, and in what circumstances? Health Place, 64, 102338. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102338.
Mate, G. & Mate, D. (2022). The Myth of Normal, Trauma, Illness and Healing in a Toxic Culture. Alfred A.
Knopf Canada.
Meore, A., Sun, S., Byma, L., Alter, S., Vitale, A., Podolak, E., ... & Haghighi, F. (2021). Pilot evaluation of horticultural therapy in improving overall wellness in veterans with history of suicidality. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 59, 102728.
Millican, J., Perkins, C., Adam-Bradford, A. (2019). Gardening in displacement: The benefits of cultivating in crisis. Journal of Refugee Studies, 32(3), 351–371. https://doi.org/10.1093/jrs/fey033.
Oh, Y.A., Park, SA. & Ahn, BE. (2018). Assessment of the psychopathological effects of a horticultural therapy program in patients with schizophrenia. Complement Ther Med. 36:54-58. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.11.019.
Oliván-Blázquez, B., Aguilar-Latorre, A. et al. (2021). The relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet, intake of specific foods and depression in an adult population (45-75 Years) in primary health care. A cross-sectional descriptive study. Nutrients 13(8):2724. doi: 10.3390/nu13082724.
Picton, C., Fernandez, R., Moxham, L. & Patterson, CF. (2020). Experiences of outdoor nature-based
therapeutic recreation programs for persons with a mental illness: A qualitative systematic review. JBI
Evidence Synthesis 18(9): 1820-1869. doi: 10.11124/JBISRIR-D-19-00263.
Siu, AMH., Kam, M. & Mok, I. (2020). Horticultural therapy program for people with mental illness: A mixed-method evaluation. Int J Environ Res Public Health 17(3):711. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17030711.
Slagle, T. (2019). Program example: Neuro sequential approach to horticultural therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. (136-137). CRC Press.
Thomas, T., Aggar, C., Baker, J., Massey, D., Thomas, M., D'Appio, D. & Brymer, E. (2022). Social prescribing of nature therapy for adults with mental illness living in the community: A scoping review of peer-reviewed international evidence. Front Psychol., 13, 1041675. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1041675.
Triguero-Mas, M., Anguelovski, I., Cirac-Claveras, J., Connolly, J., Vazquez, A., Urgell-Plaza, F., Cardona-Giralt, N., Sanyé-Mengual, E., Alonso, J. & Cole, H. (202o). Quality of life benefits of urban rooftop gardening for people with intellectual disabilities or mental health disorders. Prev Chronic Dis. 17:E126. doi: 10.5888/pcd17.200087.
Whitaker Smith, M. & Lindsay, H. (2022). Addressing mental health challenges using horticulture-
focused programs. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/hxmNL9pPJLk.
Wood, C.J, Polley, M., Barton, J.L., & Wicks, C.L. (2022). Therapeutic community gardening as a green social
prescription for mental ill-health: Impact, barriers, and facilitators from the perspective of multiple stakeholders. Int J Environ Res Public Health, Oct 20: 19(20):13612. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192013612.
Oh, Y.A., Park, S.A. & Ahn, B.E. (2018). Assessment of the psychopathological effects of a horticultural therapy program in patients with schizophrenia. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 36, 54-58.
Zhu, S., Wan, H., Lu, Z., Wu, H., Zhang, Q., Qian, X. & Ye, C. (2016). Treatment effect of antipsychotics
in combination with horticultural therapy on patients with schizophrenia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Shanghai Archives of Psychiatry, 28(4), 195.
Facility
Backus, EW. (2019). Technique: Safety Considerations in a mental health setting. In Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Barnes, M.R., Donahue, M.L., Keeler, B.L., Shorb, C.M., Mohtadi, T.Z. & Shelby, L.J. (2019). Characterizing nature and participant experience in studies of nature exposure for positive mental health: An integrative review. Front. Psychol., 9, 2617. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02617.
Bergeman, J. (2014). Rosencrance Healing Garden, Griffin Williamson Adolescent Treatment Center, Rockford, Illinois (pp.189-194). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N.A. (2014). Chapter 12 Gardens for mental and behavioural health facilities (pp.179-205). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N.A. (2014). Alnarp Rehabilitation Garden, Alnarp, Sweden (pp.194-198). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
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Fleming. L. & Kelijian, H. (2023). Opportunities for therapeutic horticulture at botanical gardens. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/nVvj273_liI.
Howarth, M., Rogers, M., Withnell, N., & McQuarrie, C. (2018). Growing spaces: an evaluation of the mental health recovery programme using mixed methods. J Res Nurs. Sep 23(6):476-489. doi: 10.1177/1744987118766207.
Irish, J. (2019). Program example: Psychiatric, Rogers Memorial Hospital, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
(pp.183-184). In Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Johnson, L., Gutridge, K., Parkes, J., Roy, A. & Plugge, E. (2021). Scoping review of mental health in prisons through the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open. 11(5):e046547. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046547.
Jones, E. (2019). Program example: Vocational training in a therapeutic residential program for adults with addictions (pp.242-243). In Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Lygum, VL. & Stigsdptter. UK. (2014). A garden at a crisis shelter for women and children survivors of
domestic violence: Danner’s Garden, Copenhagen, Denmark (pp.184-189). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Mantler, A. & Logan, AC. (2015). Natural environments and mental health. Adv Integr Med. 2:5–12.
doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2015.03.002.
Maund, PR., Irvine, KN., Reeves, J., Strong, E., Cromie, R., Dallimer, M. & Davies, ZG. (2019). Wetlands
for wellbeing: Piloting a nature-based health intervention for the management of anxiety and depression. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 16(22): 4413. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16224413.
Olszewska-Guizzo, A., Fogel, A., Escoffier, N., Sia, A., Nakazawa, K., Kumagai, A., Dan, I. & Ho, R. (2022). Therapeutic garden with contemplative features induces desirable changes in mood and brain activity in depressed adults. Front Psychiatry., 13, 757056. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.757056.
Pieters, H.C, Ayala, L., Schneider, A., Wicks, N., Levine-Dickman, A. & Clinton, S. (2018). Gardening on
a psychiatric inpatient unit: Cultivating recovery. Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, 33(1), 57-64.
doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2018.10.001.
Sarkar, C., Webster, C., & Gallacher, J. (2018). Residential greenness and prevalence of major depressive disorders: A cross-sectional, observational, associational study of 94 879 adult UK Bio bank participants. Lancet Planet Health 2:E162–73. 10.1016/S2542-5196(18)30051-2.
de Seixas, M., Williamson, D., Barker, G. & Vickerstaff, R. (2017). Horticultural therapy in a psychiatric in-patient setting. BJPsych international., 14(4), 87-89.
Stigsdotter, UK. (2014). Nacadia healing Forest Garden, Hoersholm Arboretum, Copenhagen, Denmark (pp.198-204). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Ulrich, RS., Borgren, L. & Lundin, S. (2012). Toward a design theory for reducing aggression in psychiatric facilities. Paper at ARCH12: Architecture/Research/Care/Health Conference, Sweden.
Wood, C., Wicks, C., & Barton, J. (2023). Green spaces for mental disorders. Curr Opin Psychiatry., 36(1), 41-46. doi: 10.1097/YCO.000000000000083.
Yun, J., Yao, W., Meng, T., & Mu, Z. (2023, Jun). Effects of horticultural therapy on health in the elderly: A review and meta-analysis. Z Gesundh Wiss., 5, 1-27. doi: 10.1007/s10389-023-01938-w.
Abbott A. (2021). COVID's mental-health toll: Scientists track surge in depression. Nature 590:194–5. 10.1038/d41586-021-00175-z.
Ainamani, H.E., Gumisiriza, N., Bamwerinde, W.M. & Rukundo, G.Z. (2022). Gardening activity and its
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Boomfield, D. (2017). What makes nature-based interventions for mental health successful? BJPsych.
International 14(4):82-85. doi: 10.1192/S2056474000002063.
Briggs, R., Morris, P.G. & Rees, K. (2023, Aug.). The effectiveness of group-based gardening interventions for improving wellbeing and reducing symptoms of mental ill-health in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ment Health., 32(4), 787-804. DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2022.2118687.
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Chavaly, D. & Naachimuthu, KP. (2020). Human-nature connection and mental health: What do we know so far? Indian Journal of Health and Wellbeing 11(1). doi: 10.15614/IJHW.v11i01/18.
Clatsworthy, J., Hinds, JM. & Camic, P. (2013). Gardening as a mental health intervention: A review. Mental Health Review Journal 18(4):214-25.
Diener, E., Wirtz, D., Tov, W., Kim-Prieto, C., Choi, D., Oishi, S. & Biswas-Diener, R. (2010). New measures of well-being: Flourishing and positive and negative feelings. Social Indicators Research, 39, 247-266.
Fleming, L., Bethel, M. & Roberts, T. (2023). Self-regulation, its neuroscience foundations and horticultural therapy: Growing the connections. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture. (publication pending)
Hart, B. & Zanskas, S. (2021). Cultivating care: Trauma, homeless veterans, and nature-based therapy. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 31(1), 25-38.
Kristjansdottir, H.L., Sigurdardottir, S. & Palsdottir, AM. (2021). The participant’s experience of performing horticulture activities in vocational rehabilitation. ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1330: XV International People Plant Symposium and II International Symposium on Horticultural Therapies: The Role of Horticulture in Human Well-being and Social Development.
Loftus EI, Lachaud J, Hwang SW, Mejia-Lancheros C. (2021). Food insecurity and mental health outcomes among homeless adults: a scoping review. Public Health Nutr. 24(7):1766-1777. https://doi.org/10.1017/ s1368980020001998.
Mariani, R., Renzi, A., Di Monte, C., Petrovska, E. & Di Trani, M. (2021). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary emotional systems and emotional regulation. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(11), 5742. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18115742.
Meore, A., Sun, S., Byma, L., Alter, S., Vitale, A., Podolak, E., Gibbard, B., Adams, T., Boyer, J., Galfalvy, H., Yehuda, R., Feder, A. & Haghighi F. (2021). Pilot evaluation of horticultural therapy in improving overall wellness in veterans with history of suicidality. Complementary Therapies in Medicine 59:102728. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102728.
Noone, S., Innes, A., Kelly, F. & Mayers, A. (2017). ‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia. Dementia, 16(7), 897-910.
Park, SA. (2020). Indoor green plants are beneficial to mental health. AHTA Magazine 48(3):4-5.
Pourmotabbed A, Moradi S, Babaei A, Ghavami A, Mohammadi H, Jalili C et al. (2020). Food insecurity and mental health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Public Health Nutr. 2020; 23(10):1778-1790. https://doi.org/10.1017/ s136898001900435x.
Spano, G., D’Este, M., Giannico, V., Carrus, G., Elia, M., Lafortezza, R., Panno, A. & Sanesi, G. (2020). Are community gardening and horticultural interventions beneficial for psychosocial well-being? A meta-analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17 (10):3584.
Theodoron, A., Panno, A., Carrus., G., Carobone, G.A., Massulo, C. & Imperatori, C. (2021). Stay home, stay safe, stay green: The role of gardening activities on mental health during the COVID-19 home confinement. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening 61:127091.
Thomson, L.J., Morse, N., Elsden, E., & Chatterjee, H.J. (2020). Art, nature and mental health: assessing the biopsychosocial effects of a ‘creative green prescription’ museum programme involving horticulture, artmaking and collections. Perspectives in Public Health 140(5): 277-285. DOI: 10.1177/1757913920910443.
Tu, H.M. (2022). Effect of horticultural therapy on mental health: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing.
Watkins, M., The, LA., & Fernandez, KTG. (2019). Exploring the use of therapeutic horticulture to enhance the psychological well-being of female survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 29(1).
Zhang, X., Zhang, Y., & Zhai, J. (2021). Home Garden With Eco-Healing Functions Benefiting Mental Health and Biodiversity During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. Frontiers in public health, 9, 740187. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.740187.
Zhong, Y.Q. & Tu, H.M. (2020). Horticultural activity type, psychological well-being, and fruit and vegetable intake. Nutrients 12(11):3296. doi: 10.3390/nu12113296.
Mental Health Challenges and Specific Disorders
Ascencio, J. (2019). Horticultural therapy as an intervention for schizophrenia: A review. Alternative and Complementary Therapies, 25(4), 194-200.
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Chen, H. (2021). The effect of horticultural therapy in depression intervention. Journal of Landscape Research, 13(6), 13-22.
Christie, M., Cole, F. & Miller. P.K. (2020). A piloted think aloud method within an investigation of the impacts of a therapeutic green exercise project for people recovering from mental ill-heath: Reflections on ethnographic utililty. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 30(1).
Christie, M. A., Thomson, M., Miller, P.K. & Cole, F. (2016). Personality disorder and intellectual disability: The impacts of horticultural therapy within a medium-secure unit. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 26(1).
Cipriani, J., Benz, A., Holmgren, A., Kinter, D., McGarry, J. & Rufino, G. (2017). A systematic review of the effects of horticultural therapy on persons with mental health conditions. Occup. Ther. Ment. Health. 33:47–69. doi: 10.1080/0164212X.2016.1231602.
Corazon, S.S., Nyed, P.K., Sidenius, U., Poulsen, D.V. & Stigsdotter, U.K. (2018). A long-term follow-up of the efficacy of nature-based therapy for adults suffering from stress-related illnesses on levels of healthcare consumption and sick-leave absence: A randomized controlled trial. Int J Environ Res Public Health., 15(1), 137. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15010137.
Curzio, O., Billeci, L., Belmonti, V., Colantonio, S., Cotrozzi, L., De Pasquale, CF., Morales, MA., Nali, C., Pascali, MA., Venturi, F., Tonacci, A., Zannoni, N., Maestro, S. (2022, Dec.). Horticultural therapy may reduce psychological and physiological stress in adolescents with anorexia nervosa: A pilot study. Nutrients, 7(24), 5198. doi: 10.3390/nu14245198.
Detweiler, M.B., Self, J.A., Lane, S., Spencer L., Lutgens, B., Kim, D.Y., Halling, M.H., Rudder, T.C. & Lehmann, T L.P. (2015). Horticultural therapy: A pilot study on modulating cortisol levels and indices of substance craving, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and quality of life in veterans. Altern Ther Health Med., 21(4), 36-41.
Eum, E.Y. & Kim, H.S. (2016). Effects of a horticultural therapy program on self-efficacy, stress response, and psychiatric symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Journal of Korean Academy of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 25(1), 48-57.
Flick, KM. (2012). The application of a horticultural therapy program for preschool children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 22:38-45.
Freedle, LR. & Slagle, T. (2018). Applications of the neurosequential model of therapeutics in an integrative outdoor behavioral healthcare program for adolescents and young adults. Proceedings of the Second International Neurosequential Model Symposium. CF Learning Press.
Han, A.R., Park, SA. & Ahn, B.E. (2018). Reduced stress and improved physical functional ability in elderly with mental health problems following a horticultural therapy program. Complement Ther Med. 38:19-23. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2018.03.011.
He, H., Yu, Y., Li, J., Hu, L. & Zhou, F. (2020). Edible horticultural therapy for the rehabilitation of long-
term hospitalized female schizophrenic patients. HortScience, 55(5), 699-702.
Kenmochi, T., Kenmochi, A. & Hoshiyama, M. (2019). The effects of horticultural therapy on symptoms and future perspective of patients with schizophrenia in the chronic stage. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture 29(1).
Kim, H.H., Choi, B.S. & Sung, J.E. (2022). Effects of a horticultural therapy program for patients with mental illness. Journal of Korean Academy of psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 31(2), 219-229.
Kontos, K., Koutsou, S., Sismanidi, A., Theodoropoulou, N. & Nikolopoulou, V. et al., (2021). The effects of horticultural therapy on the functionality of psychotic patients employed in the green unit of the psychiatric hospital of Thessaloniki Greece. European Psychiatry 64(S1):S506-S506. doi: 10.1192/eurpsy.2021.i354.
Korah, T, Morrison, D, Mason, D, Diehl, ER. & Bussing, R. (2021). Therapeutic horticulture as a therapeutic intervention in patients receiving electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment for major depressive disorder. Cureus 13(8):e17363. doi: 10.7759/cureus.17363.
Kusumawaty, I. & Yunike, P. (2020). The complexity of caring for people with mental disorders: Family challenges in contributing to horticultural therapy. Pakistan J Med Heal Sci, 14, 1442-6.
LaRoque, C. (2019). Program example: The interface between horticultural therapy trauma treatment and somatic-oriented mental health therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy (132-133). CRC Press.
Liu, T., LI, M., Ji, Q., Chen, Y., Li, C., Zhou, F., ... & He, H. (2022). Value of edible horticultural therapy for schizophrenic. Food Science and Technology, 42.
Lu, S., Zhao, Y., Liu, J., Xu, F. & Wang, Z. (2021). Effectiveness of horticultural therapy in people with
schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 18(3):964. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18030964.
Martínez-González, M.A. & Sánchez-Villegas, A. (2016). Food patterns and the prevention of depression. Proc Nutr Soc. 75(2):139-46. doi: 10.1017/S0029665116000045.
Masterton, W., Carver, H., Parkes, T. & Park, K. (2020). Greenspace interventions for mental health in clinical and non-clinical populations: What works, for whom, and in what circumstances? Health Place, 64, 102338. doi: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102338.
Mate, G. & Mate, D. (2022). The Myth of Normal, Trauma, Illness and Healing in a Toxic Culture. Alfred A.
Knopf Canada.
Meore, A., Sun, S., Byma, L., Alter, S., Vitale, A., Podolak, E., ... & Haghighi, F. (2021). Pilot evaluation of horticultural therapy in improving overall wellness in veterans with history of suicidality. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 59, 102728.
Millican, J., Perkins, C., Adam-Bradford, A. (2019). Gardening in displacement: The benefits of cultivating in crisis. Journal of Refugee Studies, 32(3), 351–371. https://doi.org/10.1093/jrs/fey033.
Oh, Y.A., Park, SA. & Ahn, BE. (2018). Assessment of the psychopathological effects of a horticultural therapy program in patients with schizophrenia. Complement Ther Med. 36:54-58. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.11.019.
Oliván-Blázquez, B., Aguilar-Latorre, A. et al. (2021). The relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet, intake of specific foods and depression in an adult population (45-75 Years) in primary health care. A cross-sectional descriptive study. Nutrients 13(8):2724. doi: 10.3390/nu13082724.
Picton, C., Fernandez, R., Moxham, L. & Patterson, CF. (2020). Experiences of outdoor nature-based
therapeutic recreation programs for persons with a mental illness: A qualitative systematic review. JBI
Evidence Synthesis 18(9): 1820-1869. doi: 10.11124/JBISRIR-D-19-00263.
Siu, AMH., Kam, M. & Mok, I. (2020). Horticultural therapy program for people with mental illness: A mixed-method evaluation. Int J Environ Res Public Health 17(3):711. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17030711.
Slagle, T. (2019). Program example: Neuro sequential approach to horticultural therapy. In Haller, Kennedy & Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. (136-137). CRC Press.
Thomas, T., Aggar, C., Baker, J., Massey, D., Thomas, M., D'Appio, D. & Brymer, E. (2022). Social prescribing of nature therapy for adults with mental illness living in the community: A scoping review of peer-reviewed international evidence. Front Psychol., 13, 1041675. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1041675.
Triguero-Mas, M., Anguelovski, I., Cirac-Claveras, J., Connolly, J., Vazquez, A., Urgell-Plaza, F., Cardona-Giralt, N., Sanyé-Mengual, E., Alonso, J. & Cole, H. (202o). Quality of life benefits of urban rooftop gardening for people with intellectual disabilities or mental health disorders. Prev Chronic Dis. 17:E126. doi: 10.5888/pcd17.200087.
Whitaker Smith, M. & Lindsay, H. (2022). Addressing mental health challenges using horticulture-
focused programs. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/hxmNL9pPJLk.
Wood, C.J, Polley, M., Barton, J.L., & Wicks, C.L. (2022). Therapeutic community gardening as a green social
prescription for mental ill-health: Impact, barriers, and facilitators from the perspective of multiple stakeholders. Int J Environ Res Public Health, Oct 20: 19(20):13612. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192013612.
Oh, Y.A., Park, S.A. & Ahn, B.E. (2018). Assessment of the psychopathological effects of a horticultural therapy program in patients with schizophrenia. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 36, 54-58.
Zhu, S., Wan, H., Lu, Z., Wu, H., Zhang, Q., Qian, X. & Ye, C. (2016). Treatment effect of antipsychotics
in combination with horticultural therapy on patients with schizophrenia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Shanghai Archives of Psychiatry, 28(4), 195.
Facility
Backus, EW. (2019). Technique: Safety Considerations in a mental health setting. In Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Barnes, M.R., Donahue, M.L., Keeler, B.L., Shorb, C.M., Mohtadi, T.Z. & Shelby, L.J. (2019). Characterizing nature and participant experience in studies of nature exposure for positive mental health: An integrative review. Front. Psychol., 9, 2617. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02617.
Bergeman, J. (2014). Rosencrance Healing Garden, Griffin Williamson Adolescent Treatment Center, Rockford, Illinois (pp.189-194). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N.A. (2014). Chapter 12 Gardens for mental and behavioural health facilities (pp.179-205). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Cooper Marcus, C. & Sachs, N.A. (2014). Alnarp Rehabilitation Garden, Alnarp, Sweden (pp.194-198). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
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Howarth, M., Rogers, M., Withnell, N., & McQuarrie, C. (2018). Growing spaces: an evaluation of the mental health recovery programme using mixed methods. J Res Nurs. Sep 23(6):476-489. doi: 10.1177/1744987118766207.
Irish, J. (2019). Program example: Psychiatric, Rogers Memorial Hospital, Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
(pp.183-184). In Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Johnson, L., Gutridge, K., Parkes, J., Roy, A. & Plugge, E. (2021). Scoping review of mental health in prisons through the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open. 11(5):e046547. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046547.
Jones, E. (2019). Program example: Vocational training in a therapeutic residential program for adults with addictions (pp.242-243). In Haller, Kramer and Capra (Eds.) The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy. CRC Press.
Lygum, VL. & Stigsdptter. UK. (2014). A garden at a crisis shelter for women and children survivors of
domestic violence: Danner’s Garden, Copenhagen, Denmark (pp.184-189). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Mantler, A. & Logan, AC. (2015). Natural environments and mental health. Adv Integr Med. 2:5–12.
doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2015.03.002.
Maund, PR., Irvine, KN., Reeves, J., Strong, E., Cromie, R., Dallimer, M. & Davies, ZG. (2019). Wetlands
for wellbeing: Piloting a nature-based health intervention for the management of anxiety and depression. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 16(22): 4413. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16224413.
Olszewska-Guizzo, A., Fogel, A., Escoffier, N., Sia, A., Nakazawa, K., Kumagai, A., Dan, I. & Ho, R. (2022). Therapeutic garden with contemplative features induces desirable changes in mood and brain activity in depressed adults. Front Psychiatry., 13, 757056. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.757056.
Pieters, H.C, Ayala, L., Schneider, A., Wicks, N., Levine-Dickman, A. & Clinton, S. (2018). Gardening on
a psychiatric inpatient unit: Cultivating recovery. Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, 33(1), 57-64.
doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2018.10.001.
Sarkar, C., Webster, C., & Gallacher, J. (2018). Residential greenness and prevalence of major depressive disorders: A cross-sectional, observational, associational study of 94 879 adult UK Bio bank participants. Lancet Planet Health 2:E162–73. 10.1016/S2542-5196(18)30051-2.
de Seixas, M., Williamson, D., Barker, G. & Vickerstaff, R. (2017). Horticultural therapy in a psychiatric in-patient setting. BJPsych international., 14(4), 87-89.
Stigsdotter, UK. (2014). Nacadia healing Forest Garden, Hoersholm Arboretum, Copenhagen, Denmark (pp.198-204). In Cooper Marcus & Sachs (Eds.) Therapeutic Landscapes An Evidence-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Wiley.
Ulrich, RS., Borgren, L. & Lundin, S. (2012). Toward a design theory for reducing aggression in psychiatric facilities. Paper at ARCH12: Architecture/Research/Care/Health Conference, Sweden.
Wood, C., Wicks, C., & Barton, J. (2023). Green spaces for mental disorders. Curr Opin Psychiatry., 36(1), 41-46. doi: 10.1097/YCO.000000000000083.
Yun, J., Yao, W., Meng, T., & Mu, Z. (2023, Jun). Effects of horticultural therapy on health in the elderly: A review and meta-analysis. Z Gesundh Wiss., 5, 1-27. doi: 10.1007/s10389-023-01938-w.
EXAMPLES OF MENTAL hEALTH
Abe’s Place is an Alzheimer’s and memory care center that offers residential, day, community programs in Nashville, TN. https://www.abesgarden.org/
Anne and Robert Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago uses a program called Garden Play to address pediatric mental health challenges like separation anxiety, loss of control & autonomy, among others where registered horticultural therapist delivers inpatient and family sessions. https://hursthouse.com/4-ways-gardening-helps-kids/
Banfield Pavilion with rooftop garden offers long term care for seniors with views of nature, access to outdoors, programs.
Blair’s Sanctuary Garden is a therapeutic garden for women veterans, including those experiencing PTSD, military sexual trauma (MST), and more in Tacoma, Washington. The program uses sustainable cropping and “farm to table” methods to grow organic food for those in need through MADF’s Eloise’s Cooking Pot Food Bank. https://themadf.org/programs/
https://www.dvnf.org/blairs-sanctuary-garden-helps-women-veterans-heal/
Common Roots Woodside Urban Farm uses gardening as a way to improve mental wellbeing and build community through volunteer programming, skill building, and events at two locations in Nova Scotia, one on the site of Nova Scotia Psychiatric Hospital. https://commonrootsurbanfarm.ca/
Freedom from Torture community garden, started in 1992 in Scotland, is part of the Natural Growth Project combining horticulture with psychotherapy.
http://resettlement.eu/good-practice/natural-growth-project-freedom-torture-formerly-medical-foundation-care-victims
Gould Farm is a 700-acre residential therapeutic farm assisting adults with mental health challenges in Monterey, Massachusetts. https://gouldfarm.org/
Growing Opportunities Gardening Program at Girls Rehabilitation Facility minimum security detention center, San Diego, CA, for girls 13-17 years old is a plant-based program delivered by master gardeners, county probation staff & public health dept. recognizing the mental health and developmental challenges of this population.
Insight Garden Program partners with inmates across California to provide a curriculum in vocational gardening and landscape training. https://insightgardenprogram.org/
Mental Health Center of Denver horticultural therapy program for children diagnosed with a range of mental health diagnoses. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AA-7oWBZU6Y
Mount Saint Vincent, Denver, CO uses garden space and horticultural therapy in its neurosequential model of therapeutics for children who have experienced developmental trauma or neglect.
https://www.htinstitute.org/blog/horticultural-therapy-connects-with-youth-at-the-mental-health-center-of-denver/
Pacific Quest outdoor behavioural health care program for treatment of adolescents and young adults struggling with emotional and behavioural difficulties using wildnerness therapy, HT & neurodevelopmental approach to treatment. https://pacificquest.org/horticultural-therapy/
Recovery Ventures Corp. offers a 2 year residential therapeutic community that combines job training & counseling for adults addicted to drugs or alcohol. Using its 15 acre farm, interventions & activities include horticultural therapy, vocational training, gardening, hydroponic greenhouse, operating a business Farm Fresh Ventures for financial sustainability. https://recoveryventures.org/services/horticulture-therapy/
Skyland Trail nonprofit mental health organization in Atlanta GA has residential and day treatment programs for adults with bipolar, schizophrenia, major depression, anxiety disorder and other diagnoses using adjunctive therapies including horticultural therapy, art and music.
https://www.skylandtrail.org/our-programs/why-skyland-trail/holistic-mental-health-care/expressive-therapies/
Stella’s Circle in St. John’s, NL, Canada, provides services including plant-based activity to adults experiencing mental health challenges, addictions, trauma, poverty, homelessness, and more. https://stellascircle.ca/
The Garden’s Healing Force’s family counselor Morgan Myers suggests ways to cope with mental health challenges like burnout, stress and depression using nature-based activities including one collecting plant material representing burdens. https://eastdallastherapy.com/the-gardens-healing-force/
The Horticultural Society of New York is partnered with the Department of Corrections to provide a horticultural therapy program called The GreenHouse for inmates on Riker’s Island.
https://www.thehort.org/programs/greenhouse/
The Phoenix Garden Project at Her Majesty’s Penitentiary (HMP) in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, offers inmates an arts-based and nature-based curriculum through mindfulness, gardening, and landscape training.
http://www.hmppgp.ca/
The Pottle Centre is a social center for adults living with mental health issues, illnesses, and addictions using plant programming in St. John’s, NL, Canada. https://pottlecentre.org/
Thrive, based in the UK, use a personal journey approach to treating people with mental health challenges, where horticulture-focused interventions support better health & wellbeing.
https://www.thrive.org.uk/how-we-help/what-we-do/social-therapeutic-horticulture
Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture in Atlanta, GA, uses food production to bring communities together through agriculture training, nutrition, and education.
https://www.trulylivingwell.com/
Unity Center for Behavioral Health, Oregon uses interdisciplinary teams for inpatient hospital patients with a range of mental health issues including trauma, PTSD, childhood trauma where plant-based strategies, HT interventions & its behavioral health garden address issues.
https://naturesacred.org/sacred_place/unity-behavioral-health-garden/
Veterans’ Growth charity in Tennessee helps ex-service personnel suffering from mental health issues using horticultural therapy and support. https://veteransgrowth.org/
Vogel Alcove childcare center in Dallas, Tx works with homeless children experiencing mental health challenges where Look & Listen Sensory garden, Share & Care Vegetable garden, Bloom & Grow Wildlife garden support strategies addressing hypervigilance, altered sensory integration, chaos, trauma.
https://certified.natureexplore.org/vogel-alcove/
Anne and Robert Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago uses a program called Garden Play to address pediatric mental health challenges like separation anxiety, loss of control & autonomy, among others where registered horticultural therapist delivers inpatient and family sessions. https://hursthouse.com/4-ways-gardening-helps-kids/
Banfield Pavilion with rooftop garden offers long term care for seniors with views of nature, access to outdoors, programs.
Blair’s Sanctuary Garden is a therapeutic garden for women veterans, including those experiencing PTSD, military sexual trauma (MST), and more in Tacoma, Washington. The program uses sustainable cropping and “farm to table” methods to grow organic food for those in need through MADF’s Eloise’s Cooking Pot Food Bank. https://themadf.org/programs/
https://www.dvnf.org/blairs-sanctuary-garden-helps-women-veterans-heal/
Common Roots Woodside Urban Farm uses gardening as a way to improve mental wellbeing and build community through volunteer programming, skill building, and events at two locations in Nova Scotia, one on the site of Nova Scotia Psychiatric Hospital. https://commonrootsurbanfarm.ca/
Freedom from Torture community garden, started in 1992 in Scotland, is part of the Natural Growth Project combining horticulture with psychotherapy.
http://resettlement.eu/good-practice/natural-growth-project-freedom-torture-formerly-medical-foundation-care-victims
Gould Farm is a 700-acre residential therapeutic farm assisting adults with mental health challenges in Monterey, Massachusetts. https://gouldfarm.org/
Growing Opportunities Gardening Program at Girls Rehabilitation Facility minimum security detention center, San Diego, CA, for girls 13-17 years old is a plant-based program delivered by master gardeners, county probation staff & public health dept. recognizing the mental health and developmental challenges of this population.
Insight Garden Program partners with inmates across California to provide a curriculum in vocational gardening and landscape training. https://insightgardenprogram.org/
Mental Health Center of Denver horticultural therapy program for children diagnosed with a range of mental health diagnoses. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AA-7oWBZU6Y
Mount Saint Vincent, Denver, CO uses garden space and horticultural therapy in its neurosequential model of therapeutics for children who have experienced developmental trauma or neglect.
https://www.htinstitute.org/blog/horticultural-therapy-connects-with-youth-at-the-mental-health-center-of-denver/
Pacific Quest outdoor behavioural health care program for treatment of adolescents and young adults struggling with emotional and behavioural difficulties using wildnerness therapy, HT & neurodevelopmental approach to treatment. https://pacificquest.org/horticultural-therapy/
Recovery Ventures Corp. offers a 2 year residential therapeutic community that combines job training & counseling for adults addicted to drugs or alcohol. Using its 15 acre farm, interventions & activities include horticultural therapy, vocational training, gardening, hydroponic greenhouse, operating a business Farm Fresh Ventures for financial sustainability. https://recoveryventures.org/services/horticulture-therapy/
Skyland Trail nonprofit mental health organization in Atlanta GA has residential and day treatment programs for adults with bipolar, schizophrenia, major depression, anxiety disorder and other diagnoses using adjunctive therapies including horticultural therapy, art and music.
https://www.skylandtrail.org/our-programs/why-skyland-trail/holistic-mental-health-care/expressive-therapies/
Stella’s Circle in St. John’s, NL, Canada, provides services including plant-based activity to adults experiencing mental health challenges, addictions, trauma, poverty, homelessness, and more. https://stellascircle.ca/
The Garden’s Healing Force’s family counselor Morgan Myers suggests ways to cope with mental health challenges like burnout, stress and depression using nature-based activities including one collecting plant material representing burdens. https://eastdallastherapy.com/the-gardens-healing-force/
The Horticultural Society of New York is partnered with the Department of Corrections to provide a horticultural therapy program called The GreenHouse for inmates on Riker’s Island.
https://www.thehort.org/programs/greenhouse/
The Phoenix Garden Project at Her Majesty’s Penitentiary (HMP) in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, offers inmates an arts-based and nature-based curriculum through mindfulness, gardening, and landscape training.
http://www.hmppgp.ca/
The Pottle Centre is a social center for adults living with mental health issues, illnesses, and addictions using plant programming in St. John’s, NL, Canada. https://pottlecentre.org/
Thrive, based in the UK, use a personal journey approach to treating people with mental health challenges, where horticulture-focused interventions support better health & wellbeing.
https://www.thrive.org.uk/how-we-help/what-we-do/social-therapeutic-horticulture
Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture in Atlanta, GA, uses food production to bring communities together through agriculture training, nutrition, and education.
https://www.trulylivingwell.com/
Unity Center for Behavioral Health, Oregon uses interdisciplinary teams for inpatient hospital patients with a range of mental health issues including trauma, PTSD, childhood trauma where plant-based strategies, HT interventions & its behavioral health garden address issues.
https://naturesacred.org/sacred_place/unity-behavioral-health-garden/
Veterans’ Growth charity in Tennessee helps ex-service personnel suffering from mental health issues using horticultural therapy and support. https://veteransgrowth.org/
Vogel Alcove childcare center in Dallas, Tx works with homeless children experiencing mental health challenges where Look & Listen Sensory garden, Share & Care Vegetable garden, Bloom & Grow Wildlife garden support strategies addressing hypervigilance, altered sensory integration, chaos, trauma.
https://certified.natureexplore.org/vogel-alcove/
VIDEOS & WEBINARS ON MENTAL hEALTH
Can Horticultural Therapy Really Help in the Treatment of Mental Illness? Explains the therapeutic gardens and this treatment modality beginning with early and current history. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQ4JNonmW4k
Horticultural Therapy at Rogers Behavioral Health uses greenhouse, gardens & horticultural therapy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9tmUDZ9odc
Horticultural Therapy for Mental and Physical Health | Ask an Expert video provides info on stress and using plant-based & nature-based strategies for coping, building resiliency and promoting well-being.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MvpENZ92M4
Mental Health Center of Denver – Horticultural Adolescent Therapy video shows its program, explaining why this modality works with this age group. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zes_tmc9f1M.
Plants, the microbiome, and mental health Tedx video provides info on the relationship between plants, diet, mental health in this ongoing field of study. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJG3zYqNgnE
Prince William County Horticultural Therapy Program (video) at a psychosocial rehabilitation program supports adults with psychiatric and cognitive disabilities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=En-UCpnUFLU
Rodiek, S. (2009). Access to nature for older adults [3 DVDs – 93 minutes]. Center for Health Systems & Design.
The Role of Therapeutic Horticulture in Wellness and Recovery webinar by Gwenn Fried, NYU Langone medical center NYC shares history, definitions on therapeutic horticulture. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_M_8Y--9XA
Horticultural Therapy at Rogers Behavioral Health uses greenhouse, gardens & horticultural therapy.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9tmUDZ9odc
Horticultural Therapy for Mental and Physical Health | Ask an Expert video provides info on stress and using plant-based & nature-based strategies for coping, building resiliency and promoting well-being.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MvpENZ92M4
Mental Health Center of Denver – Horticultural Adolescent Therapy video shows its program, explaining why this modality works with this age group. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zes_tmc9f1M.
Plants, the microbiome, and mental health Tedx video provides info on the relationship between plants, diet, mental health in this ongoing field of study. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJG3zYqNgnE
Prince William County Horticultural Therapy Program (video) at a psychosocial rehabilitation program supports adults with psychiatric and cognitive disabilities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=En-UCpnUFLU
Rodiek, S. (2009). Access to nature for older adults [3 DVDs – 93 minutes]. Center for Health Systems & Design.
The Role of Therapeutic Horticulture in Wellness and Recovery webinar by Gwenn Fried, NYU Langone medical center NYC shares history, definitions on therapeutic horticulture. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_M_8Y--9XA
RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
Acknowledging contributions from participants of Florida Horticulture for Health Network’s 2022 webinar Addressing Mental Health Challenges Using Horticulture Programming who identified programs for mental health populations.
Written and compiled by Lesley Fleming, HTR, & Morgan Whitaker Smith, LMHC