Whenever I am ask to let out my primary formula for a successful garden , I will invariably regress the same finding of fact – to evoke an standard atmosphere is overriding . Many of the idea I employ in garden design originate from something I have run across at some leg in my life . When anything invoke to me for a particular cause , and I later obtain that it can be apply within my design employment , it is n’t merely the visual element that fascinate me , it is the experience of that old incident that will always play a important role in its Reconstruction Period .
Wherever we go , whatever we see and hear is an experience that has an associated ambience , which is personal and singular to each of us . It is n’t easy to re - create that accurate ambiance , as numerous factors may have to be taken into account . Location , terrain , topography , clime , weather , clip , time of year and many other attributes may be meaning in sham the event . With accomplishment , forbearance and reasoning , our experience can be transmute into stimulant gardens .
For many of us the garden is a form of escapism , sanctuary , institution . It is a retreat from the hurried , chaotic pandemonium of the advanced environs and therefore a tranquil air must be allow for . But garden can also be created to induce other moods . Indeed gardens may be forge around a compilation of mode : enigma , mirthfulness , frivolity , romance ; even commiseration , apathy and the macabre . I believe the mood to be the disembodied spirit of the garden . It is the grounding from which it evolves . But ab initio we must seek inspiration to enable ourselves to fashion such a garden .
travelling has been exceptionally worthful in allow me with inspiration , as it is in unfamiliar locations that we undergo extraordinary , queer and unique experiences . A haunting timberland in Switzerland , an eerie , volcanic landscape in Italy , a bustling bazaar in Istanbul , the captivation and mystique of a medina in Tangier : these are just a few of the many sensations I have enjoyed whilst travelling abroad , and they have proved a valuable author of reference . However , my gardens are n’t solely gestate from ocular experiences , but are frequently inspired by euphony , sounds , dream , poem , perfume or feelings . These I record and from my note I attempt to grasp their logical system , later endeavour to intercommunicate their import through my designing . This approach ply me with some very interesting projects , but occasionally it is just sodding fortune that yields the best fruit .
One of those rare luck exhale during a visit with a booster to a reclamation 1000 , where we hoped to purchase cloth for a garden project . We found a considerable portion of the reclamation 1000 neglected and overgrown , and as we rummaged through the rubble and weed , my acquaintance was suddenly pick out back to an episode from his puerility . It was the particular perfume of the wild plant life that had triggered his memory , transporting him back in time to when he was a young boy toy in the countryside . The incident had such a remarkable effect on him that I was inspired yet again to quest for a fresh counsel , which would hopefully run my resources , motivate raw and exiting projects . This experience prompted me to further explore area that could assist me in fabricating garden with element able of stimulating the brain , thus evoking past memories . Considerable and prolonged research has alerted me to some of the fundamental component that must be addressed when attempting to construct a ‘ Garden of Memories ’ . However , continued study is essential so as to improve on what I have already carry through .
If our intention is to stimulate the mind , it is important to acquire some knowledge of how the storage works ; this will give a clear direction . There are three important parts to the memory : encoding , storage and recovery . Encoding classify out the information going into the memory , storage makes sense of the information ensuring that it is retained , and recovery is the process of recalling storage . The ability to retain info is super crucial , and some individuals are more open of this than others . Significant personal event are usually processed at a rich horizontal surface than other incident and are therefore more easy retrievable .
‘ Memories ’ or the retrieval of information can be ‘ spark ’ by various clew . Context and tie toy vital roles in the recovery of selective information : stage setting , season , prison term of Clarence Day , emotional state , scents and sounds are all examples . This basic information provides a foundation on which to make . From here we can begin to think about the element that are required to construct the garden .
Plants can be considered the essential ingredients of a ‘ Garden of Memories ’ and they fall into two family : those with the electric potential to trigger retention , and plants that stimulate the mind . A selection of plants may be accumulate for garden cater for many visitors , but this has limitations , as it is impossible to obtain knowledge of each someone . To screw something of an individual ’s background will give some indication of the type of planting that could bring out successful results . The garden may be built for a family or for just one soul , and a worldwide rule would be : the greater the numbers of garden users , the big the collection of plants . With large numbers of visitors , there will be a large diversity of lifespan experience , thus the necessity for a nifty diversity of industrial plant species . The garden can not maybe cater for everyone . It would be inconceivable to create the experimental condition need to evoke store from everyone ’s past and the outcome of our travail may unfortunately be a ‘ reach or miss ’ affair . Contrary to that however , there is the category of plants that has the potential to aid the retentiveness .
Culpepper , in his ‘ Complete Herbal & English Physician ’ describes the qualities of Spearmint , one of which is to aid memory . He also inform us that Sage will strengthen the memory when taken as a medical specialty . More recently we have rediscovered the benefit of other herbs , many of which are now used in the practice of aromatherapy . Lavender for representative , has been proven to induce relaxation . I am in my most creative state when totally relaxed and this is true of many soul . Creativity is have the ability to return workable ideas ; but these ideas can not be ‘ pulled out of a chapeau ’ like a conjuror producing a coney , they are stored as information in the wit . We must therefore square up how to retrieve this information , and relaxation behavior has essay a successful formula . The idea we give rise are in fact memories that we have unlock and set to satisfy a specific purpose . Consequently , Lavender must be moot an essential selection for the planting docket .
Since it was the smell of plant that initiated the idea of a Garden of Memories , scented coinage must therefore form the master trunk of the planting . Aromas will have varying effects on each individual . Some preceding experiences will be unpleasant unity and cognition of what may trigger these unpleasant instalment can help us to obviate inducing them in the garden . It is the pleasant memories that are important , as most of us conceive of a garden as being a pleasant environment . The odor of unwarranted plant life is quite likely to be good to most of us , as we have been subjected to these olfactory property for much of our life . Wild flora may be used to create an cozy and natural setting , or in more ornamental garden the native species may be mixed with hardy exotics .
The development of a odorous planting dodge must begin with the compilation of an extensive plant life inclination , from which those species view as advantageous are take . I bump aromatic ‘ bungalow garden ’ flowers and sure-enough - fashioned roses useful selections , as they have been dominant in garden for many years . Scented plants may be divided into three category : those give off scent freely , those emitting scent when ‘ brush against ’ or disturb , and flora whose leaves must be crushed or hurt in parliamentary law to exhaust the odor . Each pick out plant will have a particular and sexual issue on various individuals . Caryopteris x clandonensis is a personal favorite precipitate into the latter class of perfumed plant . When squash the perfume is reminiscent of the ‘ Vick ’ ointment that was so democratic during my childhood . The flower of the Moroccan Broom ( Cytisus battandieri ) has a pleasant , pineapple scent that may awaken memory of visits to exotic locations . This plant will always cue me of an challenging visit to the village of Chefchaouen , eminent in the Rif Mountains of North Africa where it prominently straggles the rocky terrain . If the plant is but mentioned , I can still picture Chefchaouen : the Rifian women in their striped tunica and conical shuck chapeau , the bustle of the busy medina and the appealingness of the Andalucian architecture dominated by its 15th C Kasbah . The bloom of this exceptional Broom constantly proves to captivate the beholder . Aniseed has an unmistakable fragrance , which whenever I see or smell it , reminds me of Menorca where it grow freely throughout the island . The potent fragrance of Ribes – the flowering currant , announces the arrival of spring . This was one of the first shrubs inclose to me when I start my career in horticulture many year ago , and that foregone event is faithfully revived for a few week each year as it releases its scent .
It should be note that some plants are scented only in the evening ; others pass off their odour in wintertime . Considering the significance of context in triggering memories , we must subsequently pay particular attention to these species . dark - odorize Stock and Evening Primrose are two suitable choices . The evergreen Daphne odora ‘ Aureo - marginata ’ ( which I rise in my garden ) produce a potent , maize scent during winter . visitant never flunk to remark on this excellent industrial plant . But many of us are reluctant to venture into the garden during the inhuman wintertime calendar month , therefore the positioning of winter scented plants demand deliberate contemplation . favorable locations are orbit adjacent to threshold and entrances , and along main pathways where the plants will be love by all who figure and leave .
My armory of aromatic plant gives gibbousness to those species conjointly known as herbaceous plant . These include Chives , Balm , Feverfew , Thyme , Rosemary , Lovage , Sage and Mint , all of which have unique aromas . The numerous varieties of Mint each have their own characteristic scent , and anyone who has visited Morocco will acknowledge the pleasant scent of Mentha viridis , an herbaceous plant used to make mint tea – the pop Moroccan beverage . Because of their of import medicinal and culinary qualities , herbaceous plant have been cultivated in garden for countless years . Their extensive usage has ensured that we have all experience the effects of herbal odour ; consequently , their cellular inclusion in the planting schedule should be assured .
Once a suitable and appropriate excerpt of plants has been finalised , we may then ponder over the choice and use of materials . We can , in all probability surmise that the introduction of modernistic pavement and brickwork into the garden is unbelievable to procure recollections of bypast events . It is more plausible to assume that reclaim materials such as cobbles , York Lucy Stone and wrought ironwork will aid in prompt tie with specific era . When take materials we must consider the garden substance abuser . Will they belong to a particular age group or will they be of differing years groups ? Will they have similar or diverse scope and societal roofy ? Certain periods may be notably significant to some individuals . substantial trends and drift have had an effect on each generation . Careful study of these event and knowledge of the computer architecture and flair of those period will give the designer some direction . The utilization of materials must be scrupulously examined and temptation to include anything and everything ancient that is available must be avoided . Only those materials deemed to be relevant to this type of project should be considered .
aside from hard materials such as paving and brickwork , we may also debate the belongings of softer stuff for use in the garden . There are many mulches which , like many plants , possess redolent quality , each have a discrete aroma . These mulches may be applied to beds and borders where they will suppress weed . They may have aesthetic link to our past and it is possible that their bouquet could waken memories . The choice of mulch includes forest barque cow dung , cocoa shell , coir , spent mushroom-shaped cloud compost and foliage - mold . From personal experience I can confidently advise on the brewery residue , ‘ spent hops ’ as a mulch . There may be temptation to enter spent record hop into the garden , perhaps perceive a link with certain professions or pursuit . However , this offensive substance should be thoroughly avoided , as the pungent stench is guaranteed to deter any prospective garden visitant – choose with aid !
There is likely to produce various moods within different part or elbow room of the garden by introducing finicky artefact . An sure-enough school bell for instance , would for many mass re - make the air of the schoolyard and sex recollections of schooltime . Such artefacts may be used as independent feature , focal stop , or can be partly hidden , thus becoming pleasant surprises when discovered . I have introduced specific item into my garden , which are associated with distinct period in my life , and these object often attract to my visitors , prompting from them interesting anecdotes . An old mangle which I found in my cellar is now locate within a bush bed , one-half hidden by the planting . This try a democratic conversation objet d’art . Some people have either have a mangle or , like myself they remember their grannie using one . I also have an iron shoe last , which is there to remind me of my other working age as a deep-dish pie ; I have an copiousness of tales to disclose whenever I am questioned about its signification . A collection of ancient pots and bottle is exhibit in a shady corner of my garden and confining review reveals the diverseness of substances the vessel once contained ; stalwart , spirit , varnish , ink , cough medical specialty , blood tonic , gingerroot beer , tomato ketchup , codfish liver petroleum , – even poison ! Each pot and bottle has a story to order and every one of them is of special relevance to myself . I can often think in detail the locations where I found them , and the associated event of the time . Such is the over-the-top electrical capacity of specific target to rush recollection of retiring incident .
Having pondered at capital length over a suitable option of centrepiece for my ‘ Garden of Memories ’ , I have determined that the feature especially appropriate for this situation is that ancient and provocative building , the inner ear . I will summarise the labyrinth ’s importance , but I recommend that designers carry out further test into its history , purpose and construction before endeavour to undertake its delineation on site . The maze is frequently , but improperly likened to the tangle ; indeed many dictionaries set apart identical definition to them . When ab initio reckon , both layout may well appear like ; nevertheless , there is a considerable difference . Within the maze one must figure out the right route , with many paths terminating in cul - de - sacs , here the head is entirely focused on clear this enigma . The internal ear on the other hand has no blind alleys ; the tract is continuous and one is top into its centre without have to make option . This unloosen the mind , allowing more important quandary to be resolved and indeed it has been used to assist in problem solving for multitudinous ERA . The inner ear is a plaza to meditate whilst quietly ambling along ; a sense of calm is experient , stress is relieve , the mind is relaxed , ideas materialize – memories are unlocked !
The useable area within the garden will determine the sizing and type of internal ear that can be built . In the orotund garden , the tract may be bordered by pleached tree diagram or marvellous , yew hedging . Dwarf Box would be worthy for a minuscule scheme , or the pattern may be cut into a lawn produce a ‘ Gazon Coupe ’ impression . In a restricted space the labyrinth design could be incorporate into the pave particular , where only the eye will follow its route . Small pebbles , Flint or ‘ on bound ’ tiles are all suited materials for this purpose . A perfumed maze of great deal or lavender could potentially hold olympian ‘ memory - evoking ’ property , and its aesthetic , redolent and provocative character would prove encapsulating to both nurseryman and visitant .
Water has die hard in garden as an eminent feature article since ancient multiplication and has such a mesmerising character that it undoubtedly warrants consideration . Since childhood we have all been enchant by water ; the tranquility of a still pool , the phone of a running stream and the superstar of crossing piss over a bridge or by stepping stone . The possibility with this tickle pink medium are infinite , from bantam self - contained fountain to vast lake , from soothing trickle to rage flood . If the intention is to enter a water feature into the garden ( and I believe it to be an all important chemical element ) then I would apply the following dominion to its use . Peace and serenity are often interrupted by the sound of roaring water , and this can be frustrating . In quiet locating the gentlest of trickles would perhaps be a wise to option . On the other hand , where a garden is situated close to a busy main road for example , the randomness of the water will have to be increase for pull care away from the annoying vehicular clamor . The sound of piddle can be very pleasing and therapeutic , but to some the great unwashed it is chafe . There is noise and there is dissonance pollution ; the interior decorator should always be aware of this and must make calculated decisions . In the gardens of Japan , experts fine - line incline piss to chance on the desired effect . To see to it that the thinker is n’t totally focalize on the water , a timer switch can be introduced to give periodic rather than continual water movement . It is imperative that water supply complements the garden and does not detract from it .
Consider the merits of still water : when calm it is like a mirror reflecting industrial plant and buildings , and adding another dimension to the garden . A light gentle wind will initiate gentle aerofoil ripples , and that wonderful aquatic flora the water lily requires unagitated water supply to assure its success . We have experienced the personal effects of water in many ways throughout our lives , through fishing , swim , sailing and numerous other pursuit , have it a serious considerateness for comprehension in the ‘ Garden of Memories ’ . It can speak to us and it can enjoin us about our past .
The entropy I have gathered to day of the month is in all likelihood just a foundation stone on which to build the garden . I find that there are many boulevard yet to explore – perhaps coloring material for example . When ideas terminate to flow , to take for granted the project is complete is a big mistake . A in effect artist is never entirely satisfied with his or her own work ; otherwise there can be no progress . During the assembly of material for this article , a acquaintance suggested that this elan of garden might prove helpful to those suffering from wicked lapses of memory and other related to conditions . I for sure desire that it can assist in impart about a recovery , and although I ca n’t assure it , I can reveal that the introduction of some of the previous advert elements into my own garden has undoubtedly had a electropositive effect on myself .
retention are very of import , especially to those with few self-control . Unlike material wealth , memory can not be exact by ; they may sometimes be lose but can always be think . All the episodes of our lives are lay in in our brain , waiting to be recalled . Our past is never lost ; we occasionally visit it by chance event , but there is the potential to retake and experience all those late sensations once again . The ‘ Garden of Memories ’ may testify to be a powerful puppet , and perhaps the idea of meter travel that is depicted in so many Quran and films is n’t so ludicrous after all .
John Richard Harris © 2001
take down : some of the terms used in this article may be unfamiliar to hoi polloi outside of Britain . I am well-chosen to answer any of your question .
JRH Garden Design Bagh - i - Khalvat,3 Douglas Road , Wigan , Lancs . WN1 1XT , England
