Horticultural Therapists

There are a number of ways you can explore your interest in this field. No matter where you live, become involved in gardening. This may mean gardening in your own backyard, creating a window box garden, or working at a community garden. To increase your gardening knowledge, join gardening groups and read about gardening on Web sites such as those by the National Gardening Association and the Garden Club of America. Such sites usually provide tips for gardeners as well as information on gardening events. Volunteer at a local public facility, such as a museum with a garden, a botanic garden, or a nature center, to meet others interested in and knowledgeable about gardening. Keep up-to-date by reading gardening magazines and talking to professionals, such as greenhouse managers. You can also get a part-time or summer job at a gardening supply store, greenhouse, or even the floral section of a grocery store.

The American Horticultural Therapy Association offers a wealth of information about horticulture therapy and education and careers in the field on its Web site, https://www.ahta.org/horticultural-therapy.

It is equally important to explore your interest in working with people who need some type of assistance. Therefore, get paid part-time or summer work at a nursing home, hospital, assisted-care facility, or even a daycare center. If you are unable to find paid work, get experience by volunteering at one of these places.