Horticulture is no longer just an ornamental art.
Studies conducted over the last fifty years confirm that the relationships between people, plants, and their habitats are critically important to the health of the individual, the community, and the environment. In other words, the interior landscapes of the human psyche are inextricably connected to the exterior landscapes that we live in. A specific example of this strategy is the field of horticulture therapy. Credentials, registration, minors, and full degrees are now offered in the field of horticulture therapy at universities throughout the United States. Additionally, a preponderance of research and data supporting the benefits and effectiveness of horticulture therapy is made available through the People Plant Council, a national clearinghouse of academic research being conducted in this area.