Gardeners are always looking ahead – they have to be. That’s why these cold winter days are actually a favorite time for many gardeners – they provide an opportunity to plan “dream” gardens.

Ahh, imagine stepping into an oasis of beauty and calm with warm breezes and fragrance…

What would your dream garden be?

Lynn Kirk, public relations writer for Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, wrote the article below with some good tips to help guide in your planning (thanks, Lynn!):

Visualize your garden. Determine how you want your garden to look and feel, find a suitable location with potential for development and visit beautiful garden spots for inspiration. The results will be much more successful if you can imagine the end product before you actually begin.

Create an effective entrance — one that intrigues you to step into its sanctuary and discover its treasures. The entrance, whether it relies on gates, archways, fencing or shrub borders, should encourage one to leave worldly cares behind, surrendering to the garden’s tranquility and peace.

Use water to create mood and serve practical purposes. Water is one of the most important features of an oasis garden, for it masks ambient sounds, softens landscapes and attracts wildlife. It also serves as a spiritual symbol, representing purity, cleansing and refreshment. There is an array of water features for consideration, such as a reflecting pool, bog, shallow water bowl, bird bath or bubbling fountain. Select one or two that speak most to you, then incorporate them in the garden design.

Experiment with color and light to create different moods. Research the flowering time of plants and utilize those that ensure blossoms throughout the seasons. Consider their year-round colors and decide whether you want to surround yourself with energizing reds and oranges, or perhaps more peaceful, subdued hues. Be sure to consider the location’s natural light, since variances create different moods throughout the day. When possible, also plant trees or upright shrubs that provide refreshing shade.

Plan a sitting area that encourages the visitor to stop, rest and reflect. Arrange a comfortable bench or inviting chair in a location of soothing water sounds or visual interest. Be sure to include extra seating if you plan to share your garden with others.

Utilize natural features when planning your garden oasis. Wood and stone add drama and beauty as only nature can provide, and they are available without cost. They also make ideal perches and homes for butterflies, birds and wildlife that you hope to attract.

Make your personal statement with garden art. Here’s your chance to visually share who you are, by the art you display. Select garden art that symbolizes what is important to you, or create your own with natural materials and recycled items.

Create a habitat that welcomes and supports wildlife. Choose vegetation that produces food and nectar for each season, and avoid use of toxic chemicals. Your artistic water feature may double as a source of water for animals, and felled trees, brambles or bird houses may serve as shelter.

Beth Monroe is public relations director at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

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