Gardening, self-efficacy and self-esteem

The current study explores the relationship between a community college gardening program and changes in participants' self-esteem and self-efficacy relative to academic performance. Thirty-eight community college students who were enrolled in an introductory psychology course volunteered to participate during a sixteen-week term. Students were given weekly assignments and instructions regarding garden maintenance and horticultural activities. Results indicate those students who remained active in the gardening program for the full 16 weeks reported higher levels of self-esteem and self-efficacy, as well as improvements in academic work. The results support the hypothesis of the pilot study. The authors discuss ramifications of the qualitative research as well as suggestions for future research. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]