Are you looking for a way to make your garden more diverse, interesting and enjoyable? A sensory garden is one of the best ways to create a space that is not only beautiful but also inviting and stimulating.
So, what is a Sensory Garden?
A sensory garden is pretty much what it sounds like: a type of garden that is designed to be stimulating to the senses. This means it should be full of plants and flowers that can be seen, touched, smelled and even heard. The aim is to create an environment that encourages the senses to be engaged and delighted. With the right design, this type of garden can provide an immersive experience for everyone who visits.
Read on to discover our expert team’s top tips for creating a sensory garden in the UK.
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Choose the location carefully
The location of your sensory garden is a crucial factor to consider. Ideally, the space should be in a quiet, sheltered spot with plenty of natural light. You may also want to consider the type of soil in the area and how much sun it receives. This will help you to select the right plants and other features for your garden.
If you have limited space, consider starting with a small corner of your garden or a balcony or patio. Even a window box can be transformed into a sensory garden with the right plants and accessories.
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Select the right plants
The most important part of creating a sensory garden is selecting the right plants. Make sure you choose plants with a variety of colours, shapes, sizes and textures. Look for plants with interesting foliage, flowers or scents.
At Genesis Gardens, we always advise opting for plants that are native to the UK, as they are more likely to thrive in the local environment.
When selecting plants, we like to think about their seasonal cycle. Planting a mix of annuals, perennials and evergreens will ensure that your garden looks great throughout the year.
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Create variety
As mentioned above, having a variety of plants in your garden will help to create a more interesting and stimulating environment. Try to mix up the colours, shapes and sizes of the plants and create groupings that draw the eye. Don’t be afraid to experiment – you can always move plants around if you don’t like the way they look.
But it’s not all about plants! You can create a sense of variety by adding other elements to your garden, such as sculptures, water features, windchimes or even something as simple as trellising. These will help to add texture and depth to your garden, making it a more enjoyable space.
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Incorporate seating
Having comfortable seating in your garden will make it much more inviting and enjoyable. Choose seating that’s comfortable and weatherproof, such as wooden benches or chairs. A hammock might be the perfect sensory garden accessory, too. You can add cushions or throws to make the seating even more comfortable – but remember you’ll need somewhere to store them away from the British weather!
When positioning your seating, make sure it’s in a spot that takes advantage of the garden’s natural features, such as a view of a pond or a flowering bush. This will make it more pleasant to sit and enjoy the garden.
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Choose cosy lighting
Lighting is an important part of creating a sensory garden, as it can help to create a calm and inviting atmosphere. Consider using solar-powered lights or battery-operated lights, as these are more energy efficient and are quick and easy to install. You can also add artificial candles, fairy lights or lanterns for a romantic feel.
When positioning lights in your garden, try to avoid putting them too close to plants or shrubs. You want the lights to create a pleasant atmosphere, not to damage the plants.
Start creating your sensory garden today!
Creating a sensory garden is a great way to make your garden more enjoyable and inviting. By selecting the right plants, incorporating variety and seating, and choosing the right lighting, you can create a garden that is both beautiful and stimulating. So, get out there and start creating your own sensory garden!
Our team are experienced in environmentally friendly sensory garden design and implementation. Whether you have a small corner to experiment with or acres of space, we are here to help you achieve the garden of your dreams. Contact us for more information and an informal chat.