King Adult Day Enrichment Program of the Rocky Mountain MS Center

The mission of the Rocky Mountain Ms center is to improve the lives of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and their families through care, support, education and research. The King Adult Day Enrichment is a key element of this comprehensive approach.

KADEP serves 60 clients on a typical day. Most of the population struggles with MS (multiple sclerosis) but clients with neurological challenges similar to MS also attend. Although MS has no “typical” set of symptoms, clients at KADEP often face emotional and cognitive deficits in addition to physical limitations. KADEP offers an enriching experience during the day when family caregivers are at work. Clients appreciate the social interaction, the educational options, the field trips and the many other fun opportunities, including gardening, which KADEP provides. 

Research shows that time outside serves as a vital component of a comprehensive therapeutic program for people with cognitive and physical challenges. At KADEP, clients plant flowers and vegetables in accessible planters each spring. Specially adapted tools, often with easy-to-grip handles make both planting and maintenance easier while providing beneficial exercise. Outdoor lunches are a relaxing social time for MS patients with limited mobility and social outlets. Clients even experience better sleep resulting from exposure to full spectrum sunlight and fresh air! 

The current KADEP Garden, designed by Ivy Street Design and built in 1995, includes a deck shaded by a honey locust tree, accessible planting boxes, and a wide, gently graded path that leads to additional accessible gardens and a softly splashing waterfall. Permanent plantings include easy to- care for shrubs that are colorful and fragrant. The garden was installed as a cooperative effort between professional contractors and Boy Scout volunteers.

“The garden is an integral part of our program, it is a gathering place for therapy groups, socializing and just enjoying being outdoors. KADEP would be a very different place without our garden; we would miss it immensely.” explains Donna Lozano, KADEP Internship Coordinator and Garden Coordinator. 

Plants for all Seasons

Fall is a great time for planting. More moderate temperatures help plants settle in. As plants go dormant for winter, they can establish strong root systems in preparation for new growth in the spring. Fall is the only time to plant spring bulbs. Some caution and winter watering is critical for evergreens planted in the fall.

So, what should you plant? In addition to ideas from our email, here are a few more:

Fall: Dramatic foliage and ornamental grasses make a great combination. Crimson Pygmy Barberry (Berberis thunbergii 'Atropurpurea Nana') paired with Little Bunny Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Little Bunny'') provides contrast in texture and color. For a native, xeric combination, try Gro-Low Sumac (Rhus aromatica 'Gro-low') with Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium).

Winter: Both Woolly Tyme (Thymus praecox pseudolanuginousus) and English Ivy (Hedera helix) retain their color and foliage all winter. Plant Wooly Thyme in full sun to partial shade with good drainage. Don't let snow pile up on Thyme; it will rot.




Spring: Nothing heralds spring time like flowering crabs! Underplanted with tulips, the look is dramatic, cherrful and inspiring. Many people don't like the fall fruit cleanup; Spring Snow Crab (Malus x 'Spring Snow') that doesn't bear fruit is a great choice.



Please post your favorite plants and combinations!

Creating Curb Appeal

First impressions do count. The appearance of your home or business makes a big impact, whether for yourself, to help your guests feel invited, or to help sell your property. Real estate agents often refer to curb appeal when staging a house for sale. In fact, landscaping can help sell your home. According to the second edition of his quarterly report, New Research That Gardeners Can Use, Jeff Gilman, Associate Professor of Horticulture, University of Minnesota, reported that 75 homes in Lubbock, Texas were examined and researchers found that a high-quality landscape increases the sales price by 5.7 %, compared to average landscapes. Then comparing average landscapes with excellent ones, the difference in sale price is a whopping 10.8 %. Furthermore, the author calculates that every $1 spent on the landscape returns $1.35. At the Walker Residence, the change is dramatic!!! Before, gigantic scary junipers overwhelm the house. After, architecturally consistent hardscape including walls, walkways and a front terrace link the landscape to the house. Thoughtful plantings create a gracious, “always been there” look. The Phillips Residence is another dramatic improvement of an historic property. We removed sad old Spruce trees. We replaced the undersized front stoop with a more welcoming entry sequence and porch. Boxwood, carpet roses and new trees (including a Horsechestnut, a wonderful but infrequently planted tree in Denver) now frame the beautiful home. Curb appeal enhancements can make a big impact with minor construction. At the Reath Residence, removing the overgrown privet hedge allowed us to set off the cottage style home with just two simple columns and a gentle, dry stacked stone wall. The hot, south exposure works for some fantastic xeric plantings…including the hot new Texas Red Yucca. Remember that a little bit of hardscape like simple columns or a partial retaining wall can add structure to a bland yard while connecting the house to the landscape. Checking HOA requirements as well as local building and zoning code is important before proceeding with a front yard project. Many communities have standards about what is appropriate and where in our front yards. Plants are always a critical component of a front yard improvement, and they can be the only component, which is, of course, the most budget friendly approach. Replace tired, worn out shrubs with fresh plantings! Create year-round interest with broad leaf evergreens (plants with leaves that stay on all winter) and ornamental grasses. New, drought tolerant perennials and annuals add bright punches of seasonal color.

Unforgettable ideas for 2009....professional quality landscapes in trim times. Please contribute by adding your ideas:

• Plant a tree...watch it grow and cool your world with shade
• Color it in... the right bulbs and perennials come back every year for seasonal cheer!
• Hard prune old shrubs for new growth... some shrubs can be cut almost to the ground for fresh, new growth. This doesn't work for all shrubs... ask before you cut!
• Install it yourself with professional design assistance.
• Stain your patio or walkway... create a fresh, contemporary look for older concrete!
• Open the doors... to a new and better landing. Replacing a porch creates a new look without a complete remodel.
• Add off the shelf furnishings... sofas and chairs, a fountain, portable fireplace or sculpture in just the right place.
• Light it up... night lighting that highlights your house is the latest trend.
• Audit your irrigation system... consider water saving upgrades like drip and ET controls... Denver Water even offers rebates!