June 30th, 2017
The sounds of the multi-level Healing Waters, birds splashing there, the whiz of hummingbirds, the rustle of leaves and grasses, all tune us into the world of nature.
Smelling Hosta blossoms and roses along the paths, finding a sprig of Apple Mint or “Phenomenal” Lavender makes us hold our heads up high in appreciation of the moment. Some garden aromas come from blooms, others from leaves!
Seeing the ever changing colors of “Blue Ice” Amsonia, Evening Primrose and Buddleia Butterfly Bush makes us wonder “What’s coming next?” Look for plants with varying growth habits. There is Sweet Autumn Clematis growing over the patio arbor, there is sprawling Sumac between the Fairy Garden and the Mesozoic Garden, there are tall “Dark Tower” Penstemon with pink to white flowers and dark purple stems and leaves. The Garden calls us to look up and down!
Be curious, touch a Lamb’s Ear or pick up a prickly pinecone. Look for other textures to explore: tree bark, moss, Native Ginger, Nepeta. Feel the warming sun and the cool shadows of shade.
Watch for ripe strawberries and raspberries and tomatoes to taste. Be alert! Soon we will have peas and beans and peppers to pick. Pick a leaf from the herb garden and find Stevia, Basil, Cilantro and more.
Sound, smell, sight, touch, taste, these are the five senses always alive and revitalizing the in the Secret Garden.
Be aware of another sense: a sense of calm, of courage, of confidence that there are good people who care about you, a sense of rejuvenation and hope. Let the Secret Garden give you these gifts of being a part of nature, appreciating the moment, feeling wonder, curiosity, and be alert to new experiences!
Ann Phillips, Master Gardener
