May 2026 Newsletter

What's Included in This Month's Newsletter

President’s Message: More Than a Destination

An Invitation to Connect, Reflect, and Grow

I recently had the opportunity to travel to San Francisco and experience many of the venues that will be part of this year’s AHTA Annual Conference. As we explored the gardens, landscapes, and gathering spaces that will host our time together, I found myself reflecting on the values and standards that shape our profession and the lives transformed through the power of plants and nature. 

Among the experiences that make this conference so distinctive is the opportunity to spend time among the towering redwoods. Standing beneath these extraordinary trees, it is difficult not to be humbled by their scale, age, and presence. Though each tree stands independently, redwoods thrive through interconnected root systems that provide stability and support to one another. They offer a reminder that some of the strongest and most enduring systems are built through connection.

Another story emerges at the Gardens of Alcatraz. Among the factual accounts shared is that of an individual living within the prison system who found a renewed sense of purpose, responsibility, and personal transformation through working with plants and cultivating gardens as part of his daily incarceration routine. His story reflects what many of us have witnessed throughout our profession—the ability of plants and gardens to foster growth, purpose, and dignity, particularly in the most challenging of circumstances.

Another highly anticipated aspect of this conference is the closing circle of the Annual Conference which will take place in the deeply meaningful National AIDS Memorial Grove. Tucked within Golden Gate Park, the Grove is a place of connection, reflection, healing, and community. It is a sacred space that honors lives lost while embracing the power of remembrance, community, and place.

This Grove bears the imprint of Clare Cooper Marcus, an honorary lifetime member of AHTA and a true giant in the field of therapeutic garden design. Clare, who passed away earlier this year, was involved in the planning of the AIDS Memorial Grove. Throughout her life’s work, Clare transformed the way we think about the relationship between people, thoughtfully designed green space, and healing. As we gather in the Grove to close our conference, we do so with deep gratitude for her contributions to our professional field. There is something particularly meaningful about gathering together in a setting that honors her legacy while surrounded by a living expression of her work.

I am excited to see as many of you as possible this October in San Francisco. I hope you will join us for what promises to be a truly unique opportunity to learn, connect, reflect, and share in an experience that speaks so powerfully to the work we do and the profession we continue to build together.

With Gratitude, 

Kelly Warnick, HTR, JD

President, American Horticultural Therapy Association

The Place to Be This October: AHTA's 2026 Annual Conference!

The excitement is building for the American Horticultural Therapy Association's 2026 Annual Conference, Thriving in the Grove: Building Resilience Through Horticultural Therapy, coming to beautiful San Francisco, October 15–18!

Even better, Early Bird pricing is now in effect, making this the perfect time to register. Special rates are available for members, non-members, and student members. Attend the entire conference experience or join us just for Saturday—there's an option for everyone.

The conference kicks off Thursday evening with an unforgettable Welcome Reception featuring Moth-Up Storytelling, where members of our community will share moving, inspiring, and often humorous stories from the field.

Friday brings a full day of exceptional learning, including presentations, panels, posters, networking opportunities, and even Plants & Paws—our therapy dog experience!

Saturday takes us to the stunning San Francisco Botanical Gardenfor a truly immersive day. 

Highlights include:

• Hands-on workshops
• Face time with horticultural therapy certificate programs
• An Internship & Supervisor Connection and Education Lounge
• The Resilience Lab
• An interactive exhibit celebrating the launch of the new HT-BC Board Certification
• Networking, exploration, and inspiration in one of the country's most beautiful botanical settings

We'll conclude the conference with a heartfelt closing ceremony in the historic AIDS Memorial Grove, providing a meaningful opportunity to reflect, connect, and celebrate our profession together.

We are beginning to spotlight our incredible presenters, panelists, and poster presenters. Be sure to visit the conference website and follow AHTA on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to meet the speakers and explore the exciting program taking shape.

Whether you're a student, practitioner, educator, researcher, supervisor, or simply passionate about horticultural therapy, this conference promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Register today! Early Bird pricing won't last forever, and hotel and travel costs only tend to increase as October approaches. Be sure to reserve your conference registration, hotel room (at our special conference rate), and travel arrangements in June.

We can't wait to see you in San Francisco. This truly will be the place to be!

2026 AHTA Conference Keynote Speaker | Jennifer Jewell

Award winning author and podcast host, Jennifer Jewell will be joining us in San Francisco! Jennifer will serve as our keynote speaker and participate in several additional activities at the October event. Stay tuned for conference registration details.

Jennifer Jewell is the host of the national award-winning weekly public radio program and podcast Cultivating Place: Conversations on Natural History and the Human Impulse to Garden. The author of The Earth in Her Hands, 75 Extraordinary Women Working in the World of Plants, Under Western Skies, Visionary Gardens and What We Sow: On the Personal, Ecological, and Cultural Significance of Seeds.

Jewell’s greatest passion is elevating the way we think and talk about gardening, the empowerment of gardeners, and the possibility inherent in the intersection between places, environments, cultures, individuals, and the gardens that bring them together beautifully–for the better of all the lives on this generous planet. Cultivating Place has several times been recognized by Garden Communicators International as Best On-Air Talent and Best Overall Broadcast Media. 

In 2021, The Earth in Her Hands was honored by the Council on Botanical and Horticultural Libraries with their Award for Excellence in Biography, and Under Western Skies received a Golden Poppy winner for the Glenn Goldman award from the California Alliance of Independent Booksellers. The members of CALIBA present The Golden Poppy Book Awards to recognize the most distinguished books written by writers and artists who make California their home.

Look What's Going On For World Therapeutic Horticulture Day

Webinar Work Team- Looking for Speakers

The webinar work team is looking for speakers for 2026. Please let Holly Harrison or Danielle Stojan know if you have any suggestions, recommendations or would like to teach one. The work team for 2026 includes, Mike Maddox with Danielle Stojan and Holly Harrison as co-leads. The webinar work team planning meetings are the 1st Tuesday of the month at 6pm Central Time. For 2026 webinars, we are tentatively planning on May 26, September 29, October 27, & November 24.

Spread the Word: Share Your HT Events with AHTA

Have an upcoming horticultural therapy event? We’d love to help you spread the word! The new AHTA events website is a great way to share your workshops, trainings, and gatherings with like-minded people who care about plants and people. Send your event details and promotional photos to info@ahta.org and help grow awareness, connection, and participation across the HT community.

 🌿 Countdown to the HT–BC Certification Exam

Cultivating the future of horticultural therapy — together

The countdown to the certification exam for the Horticultural Therapist–Board Certified (HT–BC) credential continues. The American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) is pleased to have announced the launch of its first professional credentialing exam, scheduled to take place 4 months from now — in October 2026.

While some details are still being finalized, we want to keep our community informed and share what you can expect as this important credentialing process takes shape.

• Applications for the HTR will stop being accepted July 1, 2026
• Applications for the HT-BC will start being accepted July 1, 2026
• Exam Handbook to be ready for review August 1, 2026
• First HT-BC exam window is October 31 through November 14, 2026.
• “Credentialing the Profession of Horticultural Therapy” recording of webinar will be posted on the AHTA website soon!
• There will be 2 community meetings for those who watch the webinar on credentialing and have questions. Dates are tentative for late July and early September- stay tuned!

🍃 What is the AHTA Certification?

The AHTA Certification is a formal recognition that an individual has met established professional standards in horticultural therapy. It assures employers, clients, and the public that certified professionals possess the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to practice effectively and ethically.

The certification process includes: - Defined education requirements - Verified professional experience - Successful completion of a comprehensive examination

Certification vs Certificate - A certificate is awarded upon completion of an educational program (e.g., AHTA-accredited horticultural therapy courses) - Certification is a formal, third-party evaluation process that includes eligibility requirements, testing, and ethical standards.
✅ A certificate does not equate to professional certification

🌱 Exam Content: Core Domains

The HT–BC examination is based on six key professional domains identified through the large-scale 2022 Job Task Analysis:

1. Horticulture
2. Treatment Planning
3. Program Planning & Activity Design
4. Managing Human Resources
5. Business Practices, Safety & Ethics
6. Professionalism & Scholarship

These domains reflect the essential knowledge areas for effective horticultural therapy practice.

🌼 Who is this Certification For?

The Horticultural Therapist–Board Certified (HT–BC) credential is designed for individuals seeking formal recognition as professional horticultural therapists.

It is expected that the HT–BC will eventually replace the current HTR designation as the primary credential in the field.

🌳 Why Certification Matters

Certification supports both individual professionals and the field as a whole:

• Professional Credibility – Verifies expertise and ethical practice
• Standardized Practice – Aligns professionals with best-practice guidelines
• Demonstrated Competence – Combines education, skill development, and experience
• Stronger Recognition – Builds public awareness and professional identity
• Ongoing Growth – Requires continued learning and engagement

Together, certification strengthens the roots of horticultural therapy for future generations.

🌷 Frequently Asked Questions

What will happen to the HTR designation? AHTA will stop accepting new HTR applications approximately three months before the HT–BC exam launch (anticipated July 1, 2026). Current HTRs and HTMs may continue using their designations. The HT–BC credential is optional for existing professionals, but will be required for new applicants after that point.

Will this affect the THP designation? No. The Therapeutic Horticulture Practitioner (THP) designation will remain unchanged.

How do I know if I’m eligible for the HT–BC exam?
Eligibility will include education and experience criteria like HTR requirements, with an additional pathway for those in allied professions. These pathways align with national standards for professional certification. Specific eligibility info: https://www.ahta.org/board-certification 

Will there be study materials or prep courses for the exam? AHTA will provide an Exam Handbook with recommended resources, sample questions, and guidance to be ready before August 1. The exam will be based on what qualified practitioners are expected to know through training and experience.

How long is the certification valid?
  The HT–BC is expected to be valid for five years. Renewal will include continuing education and ongoing professional activity.

🍂 Stay Connected

More information regarding: - Eligibility requirements - The exam handbook - Continuing education expectations - Application timelines

…will be announced later this year. We encourage members to regularly visit the AHTA website for updates. https://www.ahta.org/certification 

Thank you for being a vital part of the growing field of horticultural therapy.

2026 Experiential Sponsorship Opportunities at the Annual Conference!

Three signature experiences. One lasting impact. 2026 Annual AHTA Conference.

 Step into unique signature experiences at the AHTA Annual Conference. Each experience is purposefully designed to engage attendees and carry forward into practice long after the conference ends. Sponsor or collaborate to bring these experiences—and their impact—to life! 

Explore AHTA’s 2026 Annual Conference Signature Experiences: Plants & Paws, Pioneers & Pathways, and the Resilience Lab. Visit AHTA’s website and access our AHTA Annual Conference Partnership & Sponsorship Guide here.

Whispers of Bloom: Orchids in the Trees

 Prepared by:

Mikkele Lawless, HT, CDP

Mid-Atlantic Horticultural Therapy Network

 In the wild, orchids cling to trees, swaying gently in the breeze and basking in the sunlight, exactly as nature intended. Yet in stores, they sit in pots, removed from their natural rhythm. In this activity, participants will discover how to hang orchids in tree branches, giving them the freedom to grow and bloom as they were designed to be, while inviting participants to reflect on their own growth, cultivate mindfulness, and strengthen their connection to nature.

 Therapeutic Goals

• Fine Motor Coordination: Handling delicate orchids, tying supports, and arranging them on branches. 
• Cognitive Engagement: Enhancing focus, memory, and problem-solving while learning orchid care and placement. 
• Emotional Wellbeing: Fostering creativity, a sense of accomplishment, and a calming, intimate connection with nature. 
• Social Connection: Encouraging collaboration, conversation, and shared experiences. 
• Mindfulness & Sensory Awareness: Engaging sight, touch, and smell to promote relaxation and present-moment focus. 

Materials 

• Orchids: Best Varieties: Vanda, Dendrobium, Cattleya, Brassavola, Oncidium, Phalaenopsis
• Mounting Supplies: Sphagnum moss, fishing line, pantyhose, soft garden ties
• Tools: Scissors, gloves (optional for moss or rough tree bark), watering can or spray bottle, ladder or step stool (if safe and accessible)

Directions

1. Prepare the Orchid - Gently remove the orchid from its pot and remove any bark or medium between roots. Cut away unhealthy roots. 
2. Wrap the Roots (Optional in Very Humid Climates) - Create a ball of sphagnum moss and gently wrap the orchid’s roots around it to retain moisture in less humid climates. In very humid regions (zones 10–12), this step is optional—orchids can be tied directly to the tree. Secure the moss or roots with fishing line, pantyhose, or soft garden ties, making sure the plant is stable but not constricted. It is advisable to demonstrate proper handling to avoid damaging roots or leaves. 
3. Select a Tree - Choose a tree with rough bark (such as oak) and dappled shade to protect leaves from direct, harsh sun. Avoid dead, weak, or brittle branches. 
4. Position and Attach the Orchid - Place the orchid in the crotch or fork of a branch for stability. Wrap roots (or moss-covered roots) around the branch using fishing line, pantyhose, or soft garden ties. Ensure the orchid is stable and won’t fall but avoid constricting the roots to allow natural growth. 

If participants cannot safely reach the branch, staff may hang the orchid while participants observe and guide placement. 

Modifications for Different Populations

• Mobility Adaptations: Use low-hanging branches or table-mounted displays to avoid ladders. 
• Cognitive Support: Break the activity into short, clear steps and provide visual cues or demonstrations. 
• Seated Participation: Allow participants to sit while arranging orchids or handling moss. 
• Step Simplification: Focus on one step at a time (e.g. wrapping moss, then securing plant). 
• Hand-over-Hand Assistance: Staff can guide hands gently for wrapping or tying. 
• Visual & Tactile Cues: Use color-coded ties or labeled materials to simplify sequencing.
• Repetition & Reinforcement: Encourage repeating steps to build confidence and mastery. 
• Group Collaboration: Pair participants together to build teamwork skills and reduce frustration. 

Safety & Considerations

• Ladder / Height Safety: Always ensure ladders or step stools are on stable, level ground. Staff should supervise all work above shoulder height. 
• Allergies / Sensitivities: Check for allergies to orchids, moss, or tree bark. Gloves recommended for sensitive skin. 
• Tree / Branch Safety: Avoid dead or brittle branches; do not tie too tightly to prevent damage to the tree or orchid. 
• Sun / Weather Exposure: Avoid bright, direct afternoon sun; consider wind exposure. 
• Water / Slippery Surfaces: Watering may create slippery areas—ensure safe footing. 
• Insects / Wildlife: Orchids may attract bees or ants; observe carefully. 
• Temperature Monitoring: Monitor seasonal temperatures and move orchids indoors when nighttime temps fall below 55°F.
• Successful Growth: Encourage daily or every-other-day misting in summer
  
  

Reflection

Just as orchids are given the freedom to grow as nature intended, participants are encouraged to reflect on their own potential to flourish when freed from constraints. Take a moment to observe your orchid and consider how its growth mirrors your own potential.

Questions to ask:

As you watch your orchid sway freely in the branches, consider: 

• What does freedom to grow mean for you? 
• Where in your life could you allow yourself more space to bloom? 

HTR Internship Sites and Intern Supervisors Information Updates

AHTA receives numerous requests for information from students in Horticultural Therapy educational programs and applicants for the Horticultural Therapist – Registered regarding the internship requirements for registration. A list of internship sites that meet the requirements for HTR internships, as well as the list of approved Intern Supervisors, are available on the AHTA website. We ask for your help to update those lists.

If you are part of a program that is currently on the list of Intern Sites, AHTA members please check your program and contact information on the AHTA website Internship Sites. If you need to make updates, contact the AHTA office at info@ahta.org .

If you know of a program that is already hosting HTR interns and is not listed, or you are part of a program that would like to be listed as an internship site, please go to the Internship Site Questionnaire on the Horticultural Therapy Internship webpage, under the Professional Registration tab. If you have been a HTR for at least 1 year and would like to be listed on the website as an Intern Supervisor, please complete the application at Intern Supervisor Application.

If you have any questions, please contact the AHTA OFFICE.

AHTA Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture

The AHTA Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture had been approved for the OpenAccess Model and is now available on Google Scholar. Did you know that you can access the copies of the AHTA Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture by going to Google Scholar, putting in the “AHTA Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture” in the search window and to narrow down your search add the volume number from the AHTA list of Journal. Click HERE to learn more. While considering publishing in the AHTA Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture consider that as members of AHTA there is no charge for the Article Processing Charge (APC) while nonmembers pay $300. Another great way to become a member! Hoping to see more submissions that will go out to all! 

AHTA HTR Database Search Option

AHTA HTR Database Search Option AHTA has a Horticultural Therapist Registered (HTR) Directory feature on our website. This feature allows companies or the general public to search for HTRs near them. The benefits for HTRs may include employment, consultation work, presentation /information sharing opportunities, advocacy for the profession of horticultural therapy and more! Click Here for the HTR Database.

Become a Member

Not a member of AHTA? Join today! AHTA's membership is comprised of Individuals who are passionate about the unique benefits of horticultural therapy as a therapeutic modality. Members are committed to the growth of the profession. Membership in the AHTA will keep you up to date on the latest in horticultural therapy news, as well as give you access to outstanding educational and networking opportunities.               

Did you know? AHTA members benefits include free webinars and free article processing fees for the AHTA Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture! Another two new reasons to join!