Core Insights - The article discusses the emerging field of horticultural therapy in China, highlighting its benefits for mental health and well-being, particularly among youth experiencing anxiety and social withdrawal [2][3][5]. Group 1: Horticultural Therapy Overview - Horticultural therapy utilizes gardening and agricultural activities to promote physical and mental health, helping participants recover from existing conditions or prevent future issues [2]. - The therapy is guided by trained horticultural therapists who tailor activities to individual needs, emphasizing the importance of structured guidance rather than random gardening activities [2]. - The therapy is seen as a complement to traditional medicine, referred to as "green medicine," and is gaining recognition as a viable health lifestyle option [2]. Group 2: Project Implementation and Impact - The "Qingxin Guardian: Natural Healing Plan" project, initiated by Zhangzhou City Vocational College, targets local high school students aged 15-23 with mild to moderate anxiety, using horticultural therapy to alleviate their symptoms [3]. - A survey revealed that over 40% of students exhibited mild to moderate anxiety, with 72% showing social avoidance behaviors, prompting the development of this project [3]. - The project has conducted 108 service sessions over three years, benefiting 450 individuals, with an average anxiety reduction of 30% among participants [3][4]. Group 3: Challenges and Future Prospects - Despite the establishment of horticultural therapy as a recognized profession in China, there are challenges in expanding its reach due to a lack of specialized institutions and professional teams [5]. - The demand for horticultural therapy professionals is high, as it requires a multidisciplinary approach involving various fields such as agriculture, medicine, and education [5]. - Zhangzhou's favorable ecological environment and growing wellness industry present significant opportunities for the development of a comprehensive green wellness system, integrating horticultural therapy into broader health strategies [6].