Therapeutic Horticulture Activity Database

Therapeutic horticulture is supported by a wide range of structured activity databases, creative nature-based craft resources, and research-informed practice tools. While structured systems like the Therapeutic Horticulture Activities Database (THAD) provide organized, goal-based interventions, many practitioners also draw from nature art, seasonal crafts, and community-shared resources to expand programming and support accessibility across different settings.

Together, these resources help bridge structured therapeutic intent with creative, sensory-rich engagement with plants and natural materials.

Structured Therapeutic Horticulture Activity Databases

Therapeutic Horticulture Activities Database (THAD)

A comprehensive, searchable database of therapeutic horticulture activities with materials, step-by-step instructions, and therapeutic considerations for different populations.

NC State Extension – Therapeutic Horticulture Activities

A curated collection of adaptable activity ideas including planting tasks, sensory experiences, and guided horticulture-based learning.

Michigan Horticultural Therapy Association – Activity Ideas

Seasonal and practical horticultural therapy activity ideas that can be adapted for community, care, and educational settings.

Nature Art and Creative Activity Resources

Nature-based art and craft activities are often used alongside therapeutic horticulture programming to support sensory engagement, fine motor skills, emotional expression, and mindfulness.

National Wildlife Federation – Nature Arts & Crafts
A wide range of nature-based craft ideas using leaves, seeds, and natural materials.

The Craft Train – Nature Crafts for Kids
Simple, accessible craft projects using sticks, stones, flowers, and leaves.

Red Ted Art – Nature Crafts Collection
A large collection of seasonal and creative nature-based craft ideas.

Resources Common Nature Art and Therapeutic Craft Activities

These activities are frequently used in therapeutic horticulture settings to support engagement, creativity, and sensory exploration:

• Pressed flower and leaf art
• Nature mandalas and seasonal arrangements
• Seed mosaics and tactile collages
• Herb sachets and sensory bags
• Pinecone bird feeders
• Bark, leaf, and flower rubbings
• Flower pounding (Hapa Zome technique)
• Nature journaling and sketching
• Clay impressions of natural materials
• Seasonal wreaths using natural elements

These activities can be adapted for a wide range of abilities and settings and often emphasize process, presence, and sensory experience over outcome.

 Bringing It Together

Therapeutic horticulture practice is strengthened through a combination of:

• Structured activity databases for intentional planning
• Research resources to support evidence-informed practice
• Nature art and craft activities for creativity and accessibility

Together, these resources support flexible, responsive programming that meets participants where they are while staying grounded in therapeutic intention.