An intriguing garden concept is the "sensory garden," designed to stimulate all five senses.
In a sensory garden, plants and elements are selected for their unique textures, colors, scents, tastes, and sounds.
Textural plants like lamb’s ear for touch, brightly colored blooms for sight, aromatic herbs like lavender and rosemary for smell, edible fruits and vegetables for taste, and rustling grasses or bamboo for sound create a rich, interactive experience.
Water features, like a small fountain or a trickling stream, add soothing sounds and visual interest, while wind chimes contribute gentle, melodious tones.
Varied pathways, perhaps of smooth stones, bark mulch, or soft grass, offer different textures underfoot.
This garden type is not only aesthetically pleasing but also therapeutic, often used in settings like schools, hospitals, and community centers to provide a calming, engaging environment for relaxation and learning.
The sensory garden is a sanctuary that invites visitors to slow down and fully engage with the natural world.
What is a Sensory Garden?
About The Author
John Bagnasco has been in the gardening industry for over 50 years, starting with a horticulture degree from Michigan State University and following a stint at Frank’s Nursery and Crafts in Detroit.
After publishing his first book “Plants for the Home Vol. I” in 1976, he moved to California to become regional manager and buyer for the Nurseryland division of Sunbelt Nursery Group.
He then became the head buyer for Armstrong Garden Centers based in Glendora, California. John had a part-time affiliation with Creative Promotions for ten years before joining them full-time in October 2000 as a senior editor and radio personality for Garden Compass.
John has also taught horticulture classes at Palomar College and San Diego State University.
He is the host of the DVD “The Essential Guide to Roses,” which also features Bryan Main and Bruce and Sharon Asakawa.
His most recent book is “Planting Designs for Cacti and Succulents”.
Currently, John is a co-host on “Garden America,” an interactive live gardening show that additionally provides podcasts of the broadcasts accessible on all major platforms.
You can contact John here.