Hospital To Host Adapted Gardening Workshop

May 8, 2007

Helen Hayes Hospital will host an Adapted Gardening Workshop on Saturday May 31, 2008 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw. The program, which is being sponsored in cooperation with the Master Gardeners of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland County, is open to individuals of all abilities who would like to learn about adapted gardening tools and techniques.

Program participants will learn about amending soil, as well as selecting, planting and maintaining plants. Master Gardeners and Recreational Therapists will discuss and demonstrate how to incorporate the use of adapted tools and techniques to make gardening possible and enjoyable despite any physical limitations. Gardening from a seated position, getting up off the ground, the availability of adapted devices and how to make accommodations for loss of strength or dexterity will all be covered. A planting bed will be prepared for participants to utilize these tools and techniques. The setting for the program will be the hospital’s MacArthur Park, which offers spectacular views of the Hudson River.

Pre-registration for the workshop is required for the program, which is free of charge. For information or to register, call Matthew Castelluccio at Helen Hayes Hospital at 845-786-4950.