Horticultural Therapy

Horticultural Therapy (HT) uses the cultivation of plants and the growing environment to heal and rehabilitate those with mental, physical, emotional and/or social disabilities. Such gardening programs are now becoming more common in nursing homes, psychiatric facilities, hospitals, and botanical gardens because of their positive results.

The HT program at Birmingham Botanical Gardens is especially designed to promote the well-being of our special needs population. Activities take place in the BBG Enabling Garden, which is wheelchair accessible, with beds and tools designed to accommodate our clients. Our HT instructor guides each participant in planting and tending a variety of interesting plants in both raised beds and container gardens. A covered pavilion provides seating and shade.

"In a healing garden, there is a lovely exchange between gardener and nature. As the gardener exerts him or herself to create a nurturing environment for the plants, nature responds with pleasant sights, smells, and even sounds and touches that renew the human spirit," explains Marcia Mancill, Coordinator of Horticultural Therapy and Enabling Garden at Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Birmingham Home and Garden, September, 2005). Our instructor guides clients through this experience as they propagate and maintain their plants, enjoy flower crafts, and visit other areas of The Gardens as a means of reaching social, emotional, cognitive or physical therapy goals.

To schedule a visit or for more information, please call The Gardens' Education Department at 205.414.3951 or email sgrimes@bbgardens.org.