Have you ever thought about the healing power of plants beyond just their aesthetic appeal? As plant parents, we know how much fun it is to take care of our plants, but did you know that therapeutic horticulture is a practice being used in hospitals, retirement homes, and even correctional facilities? Today, we're exploring the concept of therapeutic horticulture with the guidance of expert teacher Hilda Krus, who has been a horticultural therapist for over two decades, working with inmates at Rikers Island, New York's largest jail. Let’s dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

• [08:16] How Hilda Krus became a therapeutic horticulture expert
• [17:06] What is AHDA?
• [21:07] Is horticultural therapy the same as therapeutic horticulture?
• [24:34] Need a plant-based meal delivery system that eases bloat and boosts energy?
• [27:41] How creating a comfortable and easy space in a garden requires intentional work
• [31:53] What lessons did Hilda learn after working at Rikers Island for 20 years?
• [42:15] How can horticultural therapy programs get government funding?
• [49:09] Hilda describes her routine and a student's typical day at Rikers
• [51:21] What is the layout of the garden at Rikers Island?
• [53:46] How is the food they grow on-site at Rikers Island being used?
• [56:26] Did any of Hilda's students choose to work in horticulture after finishing her class?
• [59:14] Are you looking to create a spa-like ambiance in your home with beautiful chimes? 
• [01:01:37] Inspiring stories in Rikers' therapeutic horticultural program
• [01:03:56] What is the Horticultural Society of New York?
• [01:11:03] What classes does Hilda teach at NYBG?
• [01:12:13] Hilda’s recommended horticultural books!

Check out the Therapeutic Horticulture Summer Intensive at the NYBG!

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Soil Science I
• Introduction to Plant Science
• The Science of Tree Communication
• Introduction to Horticultural Therapy
• Therapeutic Horticulture Certificate Program
• Growing Joy Episode 37: Horticultural Therapy
• American Horticultural Therapy Association
• Horticultural Society of New York
• Book by Sue Stuart-Smith The Well-Gardened Mind
• Book by Rebecca L. Haller, Christine L. Capra Horticultural Therapy Methods

For more insights on therapeutic horticulture,

check out the full show notes and blog here!

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