Hello fellow garden enthusiasts! Today, I’m diving into a topic close to my heart – the therapeutic power of gardening, especially when we can extend that joy through the colder months. We all know the UK weather can be, well, unpredictable. That’s why I was so keen to chat with Isaac, a passionate gardener who’s discovered the magic of an orangery. I’ve been exploring articles about garden enjoyment, landscaping and plants, but found that orangeries were a perfect way to enhance any garden and the therapeutic benefits of gardening.
“Isaac, thanks for having me! So, tell me, what drew you to the idea of an orangery in the first place?” I asked, settling into a comfy chair in his sun-drenched orangery. The air was filled with the scent of citrus and damp earth – a welcome contrast to the blustery November day outside.
Isaac smiled. “Well, I love gardening, but I found winter so depressing. All that hard work, then everything just… stops. I read an article about The Therapeutic Benefits of Gardening in the UK, so I thought it would improve my mental health.The orangery was a way to keep the connection with nature alive all year round.”
Extending the Season: A Sheltered Sanctuary
He explained that the primary appeal was the shelter. “It’s not just about keeping the plants alive,” he clarified. “It’s about having a space I can enjoy too. Even on the coldest days, I can come in here, potter around, and feel that connection to the earth. It’s incredibly calming.”
And he’s right. Stepping into Isaac’s orangery felt like entering a different world. Lush greenery, bursting with colour, surrounded us. It was a far cry from the barren landscape outside.
The Psychological Boost: Green Therapy
I was particularly interested in the psychological impact. Studies show that being surrounded by greenery reduces stress, improves mood, and even lowers blood pressure. How did Isaac find it personally?
“Huge!” he exclaimed. “During the winter, I’d often feel a bit down. Now, even just spending half an hour in here, tending to my plants, instantly lifts my spirits. It’s like a dose of sunshine, even when it’s grey outside.”
It’s easy to see why. The simple act of nurturing something, watching it grow, provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment. That’s magnified when the rest of the world seems dormant.
Year-Round Gardening Activities: A Thriving Ecosystem
But it’s not just about passive enjoyment. Isaac actively uses his orangery throughout the year. “I start seeds in here in early spring, giving them a head start. Then, in the autumn, I bring in tender plants that wouldn’t survive the winter outside,” he explained.
He also grows a variety of herbs and vegetables, providing fresh produce even in the depths of winter. “Imagine, fresh basil in January!” he beamed. “It’s amazing.”
Creating Your Own Therapeutic Orangery Garden: Tips from Isaac
Intrigued? Here are Isaac’s top tips for creating your own therapeutic indoor garden within an orangery:
- Choose the Right Plants: “Think about what brings you joy. Citrus trees are fantastic for their scent and bright colours. Herbs are practical and fragrant. And don’t forget flowering plants for a visual boost.” He recommends researching plants suited for indoor orangeries and the light that they produce.
- Consider the Environment: “Lighting is important, you could add a greenhouse lamp for better light exposure, and watering should be controlled”, Isaac said, “And think about temperature and humidity. Most plants thrive in a stable environment.” Isaac mentioned having sensors to monitor the humidity of the orangery.
- Create a Comfortable Space: “Don’t just focus on the plants. Make sure you have a comfortable chair, good lighting, and maybe even a small water feature for a calming sound.” He emphasized the importance of making it a space you want to spend time in.
- Incorporate Aromatherapy: “Scent plays a huge role in mood. Plant fragrant herbs like lavender and rosemary, or use essential oil diffusers to create a relaxing atmosphere.” Isaac uses lemon, eucalyptus and lavender oil for their aromas.
- Make it Personal: “Add personal touches that make the space feel like your own. Artwork, family photos, or even just a favourite mug can make a big difference.” Isaac told me that his family loves to take their afternoon tea in the orangery on a weekend.
- Experiment and Learn: Gardening is a journey, not a destination. Don’t be afraid to try new things and learn from your mistakes. There are a lot of articles about gardening to improve your technique.
Bringing it all Together
My conversation with Isaac opened my eyes to the incredible potential of an orangery as a year-round therapeutic space. It’s not just about extending the gardening season; it’s about nurturing our mental and physical well-being by creating a calming, green sanctuary where we can connect with nature, reduce stress, and find joy in the simple act of growing.
