California Horticultural Therapy Network

Catalyzing collaborations to advance the profession of Horticultural Therapy in California

Books, Articles, and Research on Horticultural Therapy

A collection of books that support learning, practice, and inspiration in horticultural therapy, nature-based healing, and related fields.

Horticultural Therapy Methods and Practice

Horticultural Therapy Methods, Second Edition
Rebecca L. Haller & Christine L. Capra (2017)

A foundational guide outlining core horticultural therapy practices, program development, and therapeutic outcomes. Widely used by students and professionals in the field.

The Profession and Practice of Horticultural Therapy
Rebecca L. Haller, Karen Kennedy, & Christine L. Capra (2019)

An in depth reference explores the theory, models, and profession of horticultural therapy.

Horticulture as Therapy: Principles and Practice
Sharon P Simson & Martha C. Straus (1998)

A review of horticultural therapy practice in a variety of settings and populations providing information about treatment strategies and foundational practice methods

Horticultural Therapy and the Older Population
Suzanne E Wells (1997)

This book contains garden design ideas, descriptions of existing programs, and new research on the effectiveness of practicing horticultural therapy with an older population.

Digging for Victory: Horticultural Therapy with Veterans for Post-Traumatic Growth
Joanna Wise (2018)

This book explores the use of horticultural therapy as an evidence-based treatment for veterans with PTSD and other challenges.

Gardening for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Special Education Needs
Jessica Kingsly (2012)

Practical strategies for using gardening to support sensory, learning, and emotional development in children. Ideal for educators, therapists, and caregivers working with youth.

Therapeutic Design

Therapeutic Landscapes: An Evidenced-based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces
Clare C. Marcus & Naomi Sachs (2013)

Explains how garden design influences well-being, with guidance for creating spaces that facilitate relaxation, recovery, and engagement. Useful for designers and HT program planners.

With People in Mind: Design and Management of Everyday Nature
Rachel Kaplan, Stephen Kaplan & Robert L. Ryan (1998)

Provides a framework for designing and managing natural spaces to therapeutic benefit those who access these spaces (parks, gardens, corporate spaces).

Activities

Garden to Table: Simple Recipes with Herbs and Edible FlowersRohini Y. Deshpande (2024)

A celebration of the stages of planting seeds to transforming harvest in the home into creative recipes curated by CHTN's very own Rohini Deshpande, HTR.

Journals and Magazines