Seniors planting in a raised bed gardenHorticultural Therapy is the engagement of a person in gardening related activities, facilitated by a trained horticultural therapist, to achieve specific treatment goals.

A Missouri Botanical Garden horticultural therapist will collaborate with program administrators to define therapeutic goals, and then develop a multi-session program using plants and plant-related activities to help participants achieve these goals.

Some possible activities include:

  • Fresh flower arranging
  • Plant propagation
  • Maintaining a garden
  • Vegetable gardening

Programs may be facilitated at the Garden or an offsite location. Overall program length will vary depending upon participants’ goals and program selection. For some examples of our programs, refer to our Menu of Services.

Current and past clients include:

  • Adults with autism
  • Children with autism
  • Seniors in senior living facilities
  • Adults who are blind or visually impaired
  • Support groups
  • Children in rehabilitation hospitals
  • Adults struggling with addiction 

For more information and pricing options call the Supervisor of Therapeutic Horticulture at (314) 577-9473 x 76526.


Therapeutic Horticultural Programs at the Garden are made possible
through contributions by:

Friends and family of Dr. Samuel D. Soule
Dr. Oscar and Barbara Soule
Edward Chase Garvey Memorial Foundation
E. Reuben and Gladys Flora Grant Charitable Trust
Mary Anne Lucas Fund
Van Evera Foundation
Maritz Corporation