There are four elements that are essential for an activity to qualify as horticultural therapy if it is to be considered a profession eligible for the same status as other caring professions.
a defined treatment procedure that focuses on horticultural or
gardening activities
a client with a diagnosed problem who is in treatment for that
problem
a treatment goal that can be measured and evaluated
a qualified professional to deliver the treatment
Associations with Programs for Special Populations
American Horticultural Society, 7931 East Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, VA 22308-1300. AHS '93 Children's Gardening Symposium Proceedings, "Children, Plants, and Gardens: Educational Opportunities," July 1994 American Horticulturist. AHS '95 National Youth Gardening Symposium, "Gardens for Youth: Nourishing Mind, Body, and Heart" June 27-30, 1995, in Pasadena, California.
