I’m very pleased to share some very positive reviews about my new book on Designing, planting and using a Therapeutic Garden.

This is from Emilee, who teaches Therapeutic Horticulture programmes at North Carolina Botanical Garden in the USA.

“Sue Jeffries’ book, “Designing, Planting, and Using a Therapeutic Garden” is a meticulously curated treasure trove of present-day considerations for the creation of therapeutic gardens and activities that enable human/plant relationships. This isn’t just a design book, it’s the culmination of a lifetime of Sue’s experience observing, enhancing, and teaching the ways that humans engage gardens with their minds, bodies, and hearts. As a therapeutic horticulture educator, I view this book as a ‘one-stop-shop’ for aspiring and/or practicing therapeutic horticulture practitioners who seek visionary ideas and practical tools that will accommodate and engage the populations with whom they work, as well as garden designers who strive to push their designs to the next level. The use of colorful images, diagrams, and tables make this book a thoroughly digestible and recommended joy to read!”

Emilee Weaver, Therapeutic Horticulture Program Manager, North Carolina Botanical Garden – University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill

From the UK is a review from Imogen Jackson, a very experienced practitioner in therapeutic horticulture.

“Designing, Planting, and Using a Therapeutic Garden” is an exceptional guide for anyone interested in creating a beautiful, functional, and therapeutic garden. The book is authored by experienced social and therapeutic horticulture practitioner and freelance trainer and consultant Sue Jeffries, who has thoroughly researched and compiled all the necessary information required to create a therapeutic garden that can be used for healing and rehabilitation.

The book is well-organized, with each chapter providing valuable insights into the different aspects of garden design and therapy. All the essential aspects of garden design are covered, including planning and surveying, concept planning, and planting plans, as well as an in-depth section detailing therapeutic activities in the garden including edible gardening, therapeutic plants, incorporating seasonal interest to keep the garden engaging year-round and 40 seasonal, graded therapeutic activities with design requirements and benefits listed.

The book is richly illustrated with beautiful photos that showcase different types of therapeutic gardens and the various plants and flowers that can be incorporated into these spaces. Sue also provides insights into the different features and facilities that can be included in a therapeutic garden, such as water features, geodesic domes, and outdoor seating areas, with interesting case studies to highlight examples of ways these have been used to great effect.

Overall, “Designing, Planting, and Using a Therapeutic Garden” is a comprehensive guide that is well-researched and thorough. Sue has done an excellent job of providing readers with all the necessary information required to create a therapeutic garden that can be used for healing and rehabilitation. The book is highly recommended for garden enthusiasts, therapists, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in creating a beautiful, functional, and therapeutic garden.”

Imogen Jackson, Ecotherapist and Wellbeing Programmes Leader at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust

You can buy a copy of my book from a range of online sellers including Blackwells

More information on my book is available here.