We create gardens for numerous reasons. Sometimes we enjoy the visual excitement of an explosion of color, or maybe to watch the wildlife our gardens attract. Oftentimes it’s a means to escape and relax. Creating a relaxing or meditation garden is not difficult, but it does take planning and forethought with plant selection.
One category of plants that can assist in creating relaxing atmosphere is ferns. Used in mass the texture, green color and gracefulness of their fronds (foliage) create a harmonious, soothing effect. One can’t help but decompress just a little when surrounded by a mass of ferns. Combining different varieties of ferns but still remaining monochromatic with the green color scheme increase the soothing effect. A bed of dark green tassel ferns alongside a grouping a lighter green cinnamon ferns is a perfect example of keeping a monotone color scheme.
If you have a shade garden consider bordering your path with ferns, or surrounding a bench where you relax with ferns. The cool greens, and graceful foliage will actually entice you to linger longer.
