I'm trying to create a sensory garden as a gift for an acquaintance who's losing her eyesight. She loves gardening, but this change has really upset her. I want to include plants that have unique textures and pleasant scents. So far, I've considered lamb's ear and some dwarf conifers, but I could really use more suggestions!
4 Answers
Sweetbox might not look like much, but it has an incredible jasmine smell in winter. For other nice scents, consider Poetaz Narcissus—great fragrance even if the flowers aren't eye-catching. Night scented stock is a lovely annual; it blooms at night and has a sweet vanilla scent. For textures, try Irish moss, big alliums like Purple Sensation, scented ornamental thyme, or some succulents like stonecrop. Grasses can also give a nice touch and sound to the garden!
Lamb's ear is fantastic; it's so soft. Lavender is fragrant and lovely, and if you can manage it, lily of the valley offers a divine scent. Hyacinths can be very strong-smelling, so a few of those in a garden would really bring a sweet aroma. Think about adding mountain mints and herbs too! They smell great just from brushing against them, plus milkweed has an incredible fragrance when in bloom.
You could also think about adding some sound elements, like wind chimes or tiny bells on a string. It can create a magical touch to the garden atmosphere!
Don't forget about the culinary herbs! Sage smells great when you touch it, and chocolate mint or orange mint is fun too. Star jasmine is another fantastic option with a beautiful smell—as long as you have a good spot for it! Sweet peas are also super fragrant in spring. Just make sure they're suitable for your climate.