Horticultural Therapy in Preston, Lancashire: How Gardening Supports Mental Wellbeing

Spending time outdoors, getting your hands into the soil, and watching something grow can feel grounding in a way that’s hard to explain. For many people, gardening isn’t just enjoyable, it’s therapeutic.

Across the UK, horticultural therapy is increasingly recognised as a powerful way to support mental health and wellbeing. At Let’s Grow Preston, we see its impact every day. People arrive feeling anxious, isolated, or overwhelmed, and over time begin to feel calmer, more confident, and more connected — to themselves, to others, and to their community.

What Is Horticultural Therapy?

Horticultural therapy uses gardening and plant-based activities to support mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. It can be delivered in formal healthcare settings or informally through community gardens and volunteer-led projects.

At its heart, horticultural therapy is not about productivity or gardening expertise. It’s about participation, purpose, and connection. Activities can include:

• Sowing seeds and caring for plants

• Gentle outdoor movement and routine

• Working independently or alongside others

• Observing nature and seasonal change

  
  

There are no targets, no pressure, and no judgement — just the opportunity to take part in a meaningful way.

How Gardening Supports Mental Wellbeing

A growing body of research shows that gardening can have a positive impact on mental health. Time spent working with plants and being outdoors has been shown to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Improve mood and emotional regulation

• Increase physical activity and routine

• Support concentration and attention

• Reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation

  
  

Working with nature offers something uniquely therapeutic. Growth happens slowly and predictably. Mistakes are allowed. Progress isn’t measured day-to-day, but season by season. For people living with anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiversity, or long-term health conditions, this gentle pace can be life-changing.

Real Experiences from Let’s Grow Preston

Volunteer E

Volunteer E was referred to Let’s Grow Preston by an occupational therapist after years of high anxiety and low self-esteem. He had not left the house for anything other than medical appointments since leaving school.

Through regular attendance at our gardens, E gradually began to feel a sense of belonging. He became more physically active, more comfortable speaking to others, and calmer in himself. Working with plants provided focus and relief from anxious thoughts, while access to accredited training helped him begin to see a future again.

E credits Let’s Grow Preston with saving his life and says that working with nature has helped him feel hopeful, capable, and valued.

Volunteer H

Volunteer H joined Let’s Grow Preston in his 70s after experiencing depression and loneliness. Over time, his GP observed such a significant improvement in his mental wellbeing that antidepressants were no longer required.

Although declining physical health now limits how often he can attend, H still visits whenever he can. He helps by cleaning plant labels and tea towels and enjoys staying connected with the garden and the people in it. He describes Let’s Grow Preston as a place where he belongs and where his contribution matters.

Read more real stories from our volunteers here.

Why Community Gardens Are So Important

Community gardens offer far more than green spaces. They create safe, welcoming environments where people can take part at their own pace, without pressure or expectations.

At Let’s Grow Preston, participants are treated as volunteers rather than service users. This simple distinction makes a powerful difference. People are recognised for what they bring, not defined by what they are struggling with.

Volunteers can see the impact of their efforts — plants grown in our gardens go on to support community spaces, allotments, and food hubs across Preston. This connection between personal wellbeing and community benefit builds confidence, purpose, and pride.

Creating Your Own Mini Therapy Garden

You don’t need a large garden to experience the benefits of horticultural therapy. Even small spaces can support wellbeing.

Simple ways to get started:

• Grow herbs on a windowsill or balcony

• Use pots, containers, or raised beds

• Choose easy-care plants

• Focus on sensory experiences such as scent, texture, and colour

• Spend a few minutes each day observing rather than “doing”

  
  

Gardening doesn’t have to be perfect to be beneficial. Showing up is enough.

Get Involved with Let’s Grow Preston

If you’re interested in horticultural therapy in Preston, we’d love to welcome you.

Join a volunteer session: No experience required — come as you are

Whether you’re looking for calm, connection, or simply fresh air, there is space for you here.

---

FAQ: Horticultural Therapy in Preston

1. What is horticultural therapy?

Horticultural therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses gardening and plant-based activities to improve mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. It focuses on participation, connection, and personal growth rather than gardening expertise or productivity.

2. How does gardening support mental health?

Gardening has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, increase physical activity, and support concentration. Spending time in nature and caring for plants can also reduce feelings of isolation and promote a sense of purpose.

3. Who can benefit from horticultural therapy?

People of all ages and abilities can benefit, including those living with anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodiverse conditions, or long-term health challenges. Even small-scale gardening at home can support mental wellbeing.

4. Do I need gardening experience to participate?

No experience is needed. Horticultural therapy is about participation and connection, not skill. At Let’s Grow Preston, volunteers are welcomed as they are, and guidance is provided as needed.

5. Can I try horticultural therapy in Preston?

Yes! Let’s Grow Preston offers volunteer sessions where you can take part at your own pace. Sessions provide a calm, supportive environment and no prior gardening experience is required.

6. Can horticultural therapy be done at home?

Absolutely. Mini therapy gardens can be created in small spaces, such as balconies, windowsills, or patios. Growing herbs, sensory plants, or container gardens is a great way to experience the benefits at home.

7. What makes community gardens special for wellbeing?

Community gardens offer safe, welcoming spaces where people can participate without pressure or expectations. They foster social connection, a sense of purpose, and the satisfaction of seeing your efforts benefit the wider community.

8. Is horticultural therapy covered by the NHS?

Horticultural therapy is increasingly recognised in healthcare settings, but it isn’t routinely provided by the NHS. Some referrals may be possible through occupational therapists or mental health services, and community projects like Let’s Grow Preston offer accessible options for everyone.