How to Create a Memory Garden

Was your mother's favorite color yellow? Did your grandmother grow the best roses in the neighborhood? Gardens are a way to surround ourselves with the colors and scents that evoke memories of those who've gone before us. If you're a gardener, you've probably already incorporated shrubs or perennials that remind you of a loved one. But what if you're new to gardening? Can you create a secret spot tucked away where every plant color and scent stirs warm recollections of the one you miss? Of course! Let me give you some ideas to begin.Decisions, Decisions. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Space:
  • Memory gardens can be big or small; they can take up a whole backyard, a corner, or simply a cozy space on a deck or porch big enough for a few potted flowers or plants.
• Time:
  • At least initially, any new garden will take a bit of time. Scale your garden according to the time you actually have to water and weed enjoy your new plants.
• Privacy:
  • Memory gardens can be sited to enjoy from either inside by a window, or outside in a secluded tree-sheltered corner. If you don't already have a quiet spot, you can create privacy with tall plants, shrubs or even potted trees. I've created instant privacy with a $10.00 arborvitae tree plopped into a big pot.
• Sun or Shade:
  • Plants usually prefer one or the other--you'll want to select plants that will thrive in the space you've chosen. Don't make the mistake I've done and put a rose in the shade, (they won't grow, and they will be covered with mold and/or blackspot), or a hydrangea next to a west-facing wall of scorching summer heat.
• Scent:
  • The appearance of a flower, shrub or tree is only part of its appeal--scent is an often overlooked, but equally important consideration. Roses, dianthus, gardenia, lilies, lavender and lilac are a few odiferous options.
• A place to sit: 
  • Something as elaborate as a rose-covered arbor-seat or as simple as a folding chair will do. Plastic adirondack chairs are always on sale for less than $20.00. Do what your budget allows.
• Water:
  • The sound of a trickling fountain is soothing and peaceful, but if a fountain is beyond your budget this year, a vintage birdbath is a charming alternative and comes with the added bonus of feathered friends!
• Art in the Garden: 
  • What reminds you of the one you miss? A wind chime, gazing ball (Annie-pink in my garden!), stepping stones, or statuary can be icing on the top of your mix of plants, shrubs and trees.
    • Add a bit of whimsy with vintage tea cups (hanging from a tree or perched on an appropriate stick), wheelbarrows overflowing with daisies, a bicycle with a basketful of pansies, Radio-flyer wagons painted in a favorite color, tractor seats, pillows made from a favorite shirt, blanket or tablecloth, old license plates, chandeliers hanging from a tree branch, flea-market mirrors hung along a fence--the list is as long as your imagination.

How about you? Is creating a memory garden something you'd like to do this year? Have you already done it and can link us to a photo of your garden? What questions come to mind?