Gardening For Good Health

How helping your garden can actually help you.

- Madison Moulton

In a fast-paced world dictated by technology we have a tendency to turn to the natural world for solace. The calming character of nature has been known to humans for centuries and has recently developed into a new area of study – therapeutic horticulture. Although horticulture was used as far back as 2000BC to promote calmness, official studies into the mental benefits of gardening began in the 19th century. Since then, greater research has begun to suggest gardens are not just good-looking, they can be beneficial to our physical and mental wellbeing.

What is therapeutic horticulture?

The Canadian Horticultural Therapy Association (CHTA) defines Horticultural Therapy as ‘a formal practice that uses plants, horticultural activities and the garden landscape to promote well-being for its participants.’ Some studies – such as one by Ingrid Soderback, Marianne Soderstrom and Elisabeth Schalander published in Paediatric Rehabilitation – suggest that mental health and well-being can be greatly improved through the use of horticultural therapy as ‘views of nature have positive, psychological responses, physiological impacts (lower blood pressure, reduced muscle tension), and a reduced need for medical treatment occurs.’ Even garden soil alone has been shown to be beneficial to well-being just by breathing in, playing in or digging in dirt. A study by Christopher Lowry suggested that a bacterium found in soil, Mycobacterium vaccae, had the potential to improve the immune system, lower stress and improve brain activity. While therapeutic horticulture largely aims to assist those with cognitive or physical challenges through a connection to nature, the skills and benefits gained from the practices of horticultural therapy apply to all ages and abilities.