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Find quick answers to common questions about our workshops, services, and experiences. Our FAQ section makes it easy to get the info you need — or reach out to us anytime.
how do I get involved?
What is social and therapeutic horticulture?
Social and therapeutic horticulture (STH) refers to the use of plants and nature-based materials to enhance well-being! STH is distinct from general-purpose gardening because the programme is designed and facilitated by a qualified practitioner to reach pre-defined therapeutic goals, such as sensory stimulation, enhancing fine or gross motor skills, and reducing social isolation, among others.
Who is social and therapeutic horticulture for?
Therapeutic horticulture is suitable for everyone. Hortherapeutics has worked with a wide range of clients from preschoolers to seniors, people who have experienced trauma, youth-at-risk, people with dementia and people with special needs. Healthy individuals can also reap the benefits of connecting with nature through mindfulness and nature immersion.
Where can social and therapeutic horticulture be practised?
There are no restrictions on where social and therapeutic horticulture can be practised. Hortherapeutics has run programmes in both indoor and outdoor settings, including active ageing centres, community centres, hospices, classrooms, public parks, therapeutic gardens, and community gardens. The list is non-exhaustive!
What does the research on social and therapeutic horticulture say?
The biophilia hypothesis posits that human beings innately gravitate towards nature, while the attention restoration theory (ART) proposes that spending time in nature and nature-like environments restore cognitive resources depleted by directed attention fatigue.
In Singapore, research backs the benefits of therapeutic horticulture on senior well-being. A 2018 study on 59 seniors aged between 60 and 85 found that participants experienced significantly “improved relations with others” after undergoing a 15-week long therapeutic horticulture programme1. In another study, 47 seniors underwent a 24-week therapeutic horticulture intervention programme. Results showed improved cognitive function and reduced anxiety, with effects sustained for 6 months after the intervention ended.
How can I get involved?
We welcome interns and volunteers. Drop us a note to tell us who you are, your interests, and skill set! If you are a foundation a corporate looking to do good, we offer bespoke programmes tailored to your objectives. Write to us!
How are we different from other providers?
Formerly from the National Parks Board (NPARKS), Junxiang was part of the pioneering team that was trained in and introduced therapeutic horticulture and therapeutic gardens to Singapore. Kexin holds a Masters in Gerontology from NTU. Our team combines the necessary knowledge and experience both in plant and human science. Engaging us means you will be tapping on our intimate knowledge of green spaces in Singapore, our connections across the community landscape as well as our experience in working with clients across a spectrum of needs.