From 18-24 May, Botanic Gardens Week returns for its 11th year with the theme Where Your Health Grows, inviting locals to step into their nearest botanic garden and experience the proven health benefits firsthand.
Research shows that a 20–30 minute walk in a green space can lower cortisol (the body’s main stress hormone), reduce blood pressure, lift mood and improve focus1.
Furthermore, a landmark global review of 143 studies found exposure to green space is linked to lower risk of heart disease, type II diabetes, premature mortality and improved mental health2.
Michael Harvey, Director Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium said Botanic Garden visitor feedback sends a strong message: botanic gardens aren’t simply pretty places.
“In 2025, our visitor survey found that while seeing the gardens was the top motivation for attending our sites, nurturing physical and mental wellbeing took the second and third place for why people come along - and three out of five wanted to relieve stress and relax whilst here.
“We’re lucky to have three of these free-entry spaces on our doorstep – Adelaide in the CBD, Mount Lofty in the Adelaide Hills and Wittunga in Blackwood.
“During Botanic Gardens Week, we are offering three nature-based wellbeing events, and a suite of free resources to help support your wellbeing-focused visit to a botanic garden. Visit our website to download them, or collect them in our Visitor Information Centre in Adelaide Botanic Garden” he said.
Botanic gardens are uniquely placed to deliver these health and wellbeing benefits locally. They are safe, welcoming spaces that encourage gentle physical activity, offer restorative mental breaks, and bring people together for social connectedness.
Adelaide, Mount Lofty and Wittunga Botanic Gardens join 50+ gardens partaking in events across Australia and New Zealand.
Find out more at botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/botanic-gardens-week
References
Media contact: Lori Leane | 0402 969 703 | Lori.leane@sa.gov.au | botanicgardens.sa.gov.au
