Horticultural Therapy (HT), as defined by the American Horticultural Therapy Association, is “the engagement of a person in gardening-related activities, facilitated by a trained therapist, to achieve specific treatment goals.” In other words, HT utilizes gardens and the practice of gardening as a modality suitable for a diverse population that may include persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities, physical limitations, mental or emotional impairment, and people of all ages. 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.

Clients receive guidance as they propagate and maintain plants, enjoy flower crafts, and visit other areas of The Gardens. Activities take place in The Gardens' Enabling Garden, which is wheelchair accessible, with beds and tools designed to accommodate our clients where a covered pavilion provides seating and shade. Susan Grimes, Horticultural Therapy Coordinator, works with several different groups such as Children’s Hospital, Exceptional Students at Hewitt-Trussville High School, Birmingham Independent Living, and the retirement communities at Kirkwood and The Oaks.

“We love our partnership with the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Each month our patients look forward to the horticultural therapy sessions,” said Laura Caudell, Community Action Coordinator at Children’s Hospital. “Many of our patients with both emotional and physical disabilities have benefited from this wonderful form of therapy. Working with plants and learning gardening techniques has improved our patients’ spirits and quality of life.”

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