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A horticultural therapy programme in New York, USA, designed for individuals with acquired aphasia, a communication impairment characterized by difficulty in speaking and understanding speech, is described. Nineteen patients ranging in age from 49 to 90 years of age (mean 73.9) participated in the project. The programme consisted of structured activities designed to provide a well-rounded introduction to plant care as a leisure time or avocational activity. More than half of the patients reported that they began to care for plants which were acquired in the project at home. Some participants became volunteers in the greenhouse. Those who participated were observed to increase their verbal behaviour and social interaction, and their family members reported a noticeable increase in patient gratification