The History of Horticulture Therapy in the US

I recently had the distinct pleasure of representing Melwood at the International Conference on Horticulture Therapy at Feng Chia University in Taichung, Taiwan. The conference was a wonderful representation of the various cooperations among disciplines for a healing enviornment. It was an amazing experience to particpate in an event with presenters who share the same philosophy on the many benefits of horticulture therapy and its rehabilitative qualities. I was one of eight presenters at the conference. My subject matter focussed on the history of horticulture in the United States and Melwood's influence on horticulture therapy, specifically with the formation of the American Horticultural Therapy Association.

Many people, both internationally and right here in the United States, are unaware of the heavy influence that horticulture played in the founding of the United States. It is impossible to understand the history of America without also acknowledging the fact that our founding fathers were also farmers and gardeners. In my research the visionaries of note were George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Agriculture, in their eyes, was the building block of a new nation.

Gardening was more than a profitable and enjoyable occupation: it was also a means to freedom and independence. Not only that, these extraordinary men were humble. Some may say it could be their connection to nature. Once their time was finished in service to our country they rejoiced because they could return home and work their land.

There are many outstanding advancements in horticulture therapy of note throughout our history. One that I highlighted in my presentation was the founding of the American Horticulture Society. Founded in 1922 it combined three horticulture groups in the interest of improving horticulture in America as both a science and an art form. The headquarters were located at River Farm adjacent to George Washington’s home in Mt. Vernon, Virginia. It's mission was to open the eyes of all Americans to the vital connection between plants and people, to inspire all Americans to become responsible caretakers of the earth, to celebrate America’s diversity through the art and science of horticulture and to lead this effort by sharing the Society’s unique national resources with all Americans.

Another interesting fact is that one of the largest organizations in horticulture therapy, the American Horticultural Therapy Association, was founded at Melwood by a group of about 20 people including Earl Copus, who was the organization's first president. Many have described the AHTA as an invaluable offspring of the Melwood vision. Since its founding the AHTA has made an extraordinary impact on the advancement of rehabilitation through horticulture on a national and international platform.

I discussed many other attributes that nature has had on American society and my philosophy as a horticulture therapist. It was truly an amazing experience! The people of Taiwan and the culture were so enriching. I truly felt that I was an ambassador for the United States, horticulture therapy and for Melwood. For that, I will always be very grateful.

For more information on the history of horticulture and its connection to our founding fathers check out: “The Founding Gardeners” by Andrea Wulf.

Melwood's Horticulture Therapy program was established in 1963. Sheila Gallagher, the Manager of Horticulture Programs and Melwood's Garden Center is a Certified Professional Horticulturalist (CPH) and Registered Horticultural Therapist (HTR). Visit Melwood's Garden Center to purchase your next seasonal plant! Proceeds from plant sales go towards supporting Melwood programs including horticulture therapy for individuals with differing abilities. Melwood's Garden Center is open to the public Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30am-4:00pm. Please call to schedule an appointment at: 301.599.4570