Right, let’s talk gardens. Not just pretty ones, but the kind that give you a proper boost, a shot of sunshine even on a drizzly day (which, let’s face it, is most days here in the UK!). As a gardening enthusiast and writer for all things horticultural in this green and pleasant land, I’ve explored every corner from knot gardens to cutting-edge contemporary landscapes. But recently, I’ve been utterly captivated by the therapeutic benefits of gardening, specifically how we can actively cultivate well-being with the plants we choose.
My exploration culminated in an article, “Battling the Blues with Bloom: Choosing Plants for Mood-Boosting Gardens in the UK,” and I wanted to share some of the most insightful discoveries I made during the research. We’re talking beyond just enjoying the view from your orangery window (although, let’s be honest, that’s a HUGE mood booster in itself!). We’re talking about actively engaging with plants that can lift your spirits.
Aromatherapy in Your Own Backyard: The Power of Scent
One of the first areas I delved into was aromatherapy. It’s not just new-age fluff; there’s solid science behind how certain scents can impact our brains. Think about lavender. It’s more than just a pretty purple flower; its essential oils contain compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Planting a lavender hedge (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ is a reliable choice for UK gardens) is like creating a natural stress-relief zone. I planted a small hedge of it near my patio doors, and the scent wafting in during the summer is simply divine.
Rosemary is another powerhouse. Its aroma is stimulating and can improve memory and concentration. I’ve incorporated Rosemary officinalis ‘Miss Jessopp’s Upright’, a variety that copes well in cooler climes, into a herb spiral alongside my lavender. It’s incredibly easy to grow, smells divine, and has the added bonus of being fantastic in roast dinners!
Then there’s chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). The scent is gentle and calming, and of course, you can brew a soothing tea from its flowers. I have a patch of chamomile lawn (a slightly more rugged Roman chamomile) in a quiet corner of the garden. Walking barefoot across it releases the fragrance and feels incredibly grounding.
The Science Behind the Smiles: It’s Not Just the Smell
It’s important to understand that the benefits aren’t solely from aromatherapy. Gardening itself is a form of exercise, a chance to get some much-needed vitamin D (weather permitting!), and a mindful activity that can take you away from the stresses of everyday life. The repetitive tasks, like weeding or deadheading, can be surprisingly meditative.
Designing for Delight: Bringing it All Together
So, how do you incorporate these mood-boosting plants into your UK garden design? Consider these points:
- Soil type: Lavender and rosemary thrive in well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. Amend heavy clay soils with grit and compost. Chamomile is more tolerant of poorer soils.
- Sunlight: All three need plenty of sunshine to flourish.
- Location: Think about where you spend most of your time in the garden and plant accordingly. Near a seating area, a pathway, or even outside a window where you can enjoy the scent.
- Companion planting: Research companion plants to maximise the health and beauty of your plants. For example, lavender and rosemary are said to deter pests from cabbages and other brassicas.
Adding an Orangery: Now, let’s talk about the orangery. This is where the magic truly happens. Not only does an orangery extend your growing season, allowing you to cultivate more tender, fragrant plants, but it also provides a haven from the elements. Imagine sitting amongst your lavender and rosemary, even in the depths of winter, surrounded by the soothing scent and the gentle buzz of bees (if you’ve overwintered a lavender plant successfully!). It’s a sanctuary for the senses and a powerful tool for boosting your mood year-round. Even a small conservatory or greenhouse can make a difference.
Choosing the Right Plant for the Right Spot
If you’re struggling with heavy clay soil, consider planting your aromatic herbs in raised beds or containers. This allows you to control the soil composition and drainage. Remember to choose varieties that are suited to the UK climate. Some Mediterranean herbs, while wonderfully fragrant, might struggle to survive a harsh winter.
My own garden transformation involved a mix of raised beds, containers, and carefully chosen planting locations. I’ve learned from past mistakes; putting a lavender plant in a shady corner and hoping for the best simply won’t cut it! Now I plan everything meticulously, considering not just aesthetics but also the plant’s specific needs and, crucially, its potential to lift my spirits.
Putting all the details together it is clear the garden can truly elevate your mood. Consider designing a small, fragrant border near a frequently used pathway, plant chamomile in a lawn, and incorporate herbs in your kitchen garden for everyday aromatherapy. The key is to thoughtfully include plants known for their mood-enhancing properties and to create a space that promotes well-being through scent, sight, and touch.
