An understanding and imaginative spirit has led to the planning and planting of scented gardens designed to give pleasure to the blind. Two that I have visited are at Hove and St. Leonards, Sussex, and it is good to see how they are appreciated.
In planning such gardens, the site should be sheltered but not under heavily overhanging trees. Access should be easy, and if steps are necessary in the design, handrails should be provided, continuously with the rails employed to go all round the garden. On these, braille labels are placed in front of the various groups of plants. (more…)
It may be possible to have a small herb patch in the town garden. In general, those herbs with smooth but moderately tough leaves, which would not get as choked with grime as very fluffy or felted leaves, should do best. The chief problems that beset plants in towns and cities are the acid-content of the grime deposits; the same effect to make the soil sour; and in many cases poor overworked soils and lack of sun.
Such soils would be benefited by a dressing of lime at 2 lb. to r lb. per square yard, preferably a few days before planting; and by the addition of some compost or available organic compound. (more…)
Plants for Paths. To give an aromatic scent when trodden, the plants advised for paving may be planted to form a path, mixed or of one kind only.
Knot-Garden Beds. As a central feature, a bed planted in knot-garden style lends distinction. The simplest form is a wheel with the spokes made of compact herbs such as hyssop, rue, santolina or curry plant (kept clipped) or thymes. The segments between are filled with carpeting herbs such as chamomile, or low-growing kinds such as chives, savory or marjorams. (more…)
