This Week at the Gardens: January 28th

Angie Andrade-Foster

Our Winter Green program connects plants with disabled and elderly people in the community, assisted by our staff and volunteers. Part of our larger Horticulture Therapy Program, the curriculum for this program, along with the management of our new Sensory Garden, is the responsibility of Horticulturist Angie Andrade-Foster.

Angie has been with Denver Botanic Gardens for eight years. During this time, she received her Horticultural Therapy certification which evolved from her enjoyment of working with disabled individuals. Our Summer Sensory program (onsite) and Winter Green program (offsite) allow us to reach out to populations with special needs. Trained volunteers encourage interaction with plants that are fragrant, interesting to touch, or vibrant to look at. Each group completes a project involving planting or arranging, leaving participants with something to take home. Plants often stimulate memories and evoke emotions, and Angie loves to see participants light up with enjoyment.

Adjustable Planters

Look Out For:

Angie showed off the new Sensory Garden, though it was finished so late in 2010 that it is not fully planted yet. You can find it on the east side of the Education Building. It boasts numerous features designed with the disabled in mind.
• Wide paths for easy access.
• A green wall with plants at all heights.
• Adjustable planting troughs.
• A water feature burbling out of a stone—perfect to be touched and experienced close up.
• Plenty of plants (come spring) that smell good or are interesting to touch or taste.

Gardeners At Home:
Angie suggests creating a mini-sensory garden of your own, with herbs and succulents to add winter interest to your window sill.