RESEARCH

Consumer Horticulture Advancement: Identifying Critical Research Areas and Cultivating Collaborations

This study identifies critical research areas for consumer horticulture (CH), emphasizing its role in human health, well-being, nutrition, and interdisciplinary collaboration

Program Types: Social

Population Groups: General Population, Industry Professionals

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Increased Horticultural Knowledge

Allied Profession Intersections: Education, Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Environmental Education

Evidence Type: Industry Reports, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

Summary

The study explores the intersection of consumer horticulture (CH) with public health, urban planning, and nutrition science, highlighting how CH can enhance human well-being through interactions with plants. The research identifies gaps in collaboration between horticulturists and social scientists, arguing that CH is often overlooked in broader discussions about health benefits. A key finding is that while gardening and plant cultivation positively impact mental health, stress reduction, and nutrition, these contributions are underrepresented in interdisciplinary research.

The authors advocate for stronger integration of CH in research related to food security, urban greening, and public health. They emphasize the importance of educating younger generations about horticulture, overcoming “plant blindness,” and fostering partnerships with professionals in health, nutrition, and urban planning. The study concludes that CH must be more proactive in engaging with other disciplines to ensure its contributions are recognized and leveraged to improve societal well-being.

Link

Bumgarner, N., Dorn, S., McGinnis, E. et al. (2019). Consumer horticulture advancement: Identifying critical research areas and cultivating collaborations. HortTechnology, 29(6).

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