Thanks to a high-tech conservatory, Jefferson Moss-Magee Rehabilitation patients can help advance their rehabilitation through gardening activities in a bright and airy greenhouse.

The Alice and Herbert Sachs Therapeutic Conservatory—named in honor of the project's benefactors—features three distinct work, grow and show areas, as well as an outdoor patio.

The work area is where patients participate in horticultural activities to gain practice in cognitive sequencing; increase strength, range of motion and balance; improve bilateral upper-limb integration and fine motor skills; and build in functional tasks. Activities in the conservatory are coordinated by the horticultural therapist supporting each patient's physical and occupational rehabilitation goals.

The conservatory's grow area is a working greenhouse that supports the horticultural center.

The show area is a plant-filled respite space for patients and visitors. It features a living wall, stones from the Wissahickon Creek, finished concrete, natural cedar trim, a calming water feature and day lighting.

The Conservatory also offers a beautiful, unexpected oasis for patients and their families to seek respite.

The conservatory was made possible by the generosity of Montgomery County residents, Alice and Herbert Sachs, who wanted to provide the therapeutic and communal advantages of horticultural therapy to patients at Jefferson.

A horticultural therapy group meets in the conservatory from 3-4 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. All are welcome.

To schedule an individual therapy session, call Abby Jaroslow, registered horticulture therapist, at 215-663-7177, or Jefferson patients can talk with their recreation therapist.