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Create Your Own Healing Garden

We all can use tranquility in our lives, a place to shed stress, to work through conflict, a spot where the world doesn’t intrude. Building your own healing garden is easy. It doesn’t have to be large; just a small spot in a corner or nook of your garden will do. And, it won’t cost much. You probably have all the materials already. Here are some of the elements to consider in creating the garden.

Make sure the garden is sheltered from street noise, bright light and foot traffic. Pick a spot among tall shrubs, or behind trees that block the street view, away from the normal noise of your home. A row of bamboo can be planted to create privacy. Choose a non-invasive, clumping type such as Fargesia murielae, which is cold-hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 5. A stand of giant sunflowers can provide a quick screen.

Include plants to attract birds and butterflies and those with pleasing colors and fragrance. Select from among your favorite low maintenance plants. A variety of perennials with staggered bloom times, along with grasses and pots of annuals for season-long color, combine perfectly.

Add the sound of water for maximum relaxation. Make it simple; use a small stand-alone recirculating fountain or even a half whisky barrel with a lotus growing in it. Place a pump with a fountain spray head in the container bottom to achieve the trickling, bubbling sound.

Most important, incorporate comfortable seating--a bench, chairs, or even a hammock--where you and any companions can sit for extended periods of time to contemplate.

Doreen Howard