An incubator that nurtures the body, mind and soul - that is one of the ways one can describe the Horticulture Unit of APD, established in 1987. The coordination required to dig soil and tend saplings are very much within the physical and mental faculties of people with disability. As literacy is not a criteria, horticulture becomes a disabled friendly activity in many ways. 

APD has institutionalized the therapeutic potential of horticulture and capitalized on its income generating potential – benefiting both for the institution as well as the individual. APD’s residential training course in horticulture at Kyalasanahallli and its facilities in Jeevan Bheema Nagar are conducive for training, tending a well stocked nursery and for sale of potted plants. The courses include a ten month course with a hands-on internship period, followed by a stipend attached work experience. 

Apart from gardening, the trainees of the Horticulture Unit learn to maintain their living spaces and are responsible for cooking their own food, and doing their own personal chores. A typical day in the life of a horticulture trainee begins with cleaning, cooking, and meditation. He then does weeds, cleans and waters the plants. In addition to practical training, the trainees also attend theory classes where they get familiar with different type of plants and their tending practices. 

Impact of Horticulture as a therapy

A very positive change has been observed in the Horticulture trainees – physically, psychologically and emotionally. For example, muscle movement becomes more regulated, especially among those with polio. Overall health improve. People with a volatile temperament feel calmer and many have said that they feel more at peace with themselves. 

Income-generating Activity

The potted plants and saplings cultivated by the trainees are sold as indoor and outdoor plants, rented at functions and used for landscaping. Corporate engage APD for plant décor wherein indoor plants are provided and maintained in office complexes. This is not only a growing source of income for APD, but also provides good exposure for the Horticulture graduates. Courses are also offered to the gardening enthusiasts in the public as well. 

Sustainable Vocational Opportunity

There is a growing demand for trained gardeners. People who visit APD, word of mouth etc all lead to enquires for gardeners, both resident and day time ones. Demand for gardeners emanate from apartment complexes, factories, hospitals, institutions, nurseries, landscaping companies, and construction companies.