Organic Methods To Send Ants Packing

This introduction to organic ant control will answer three questions:

1. Do these insects truly cause damage in your yard?
2. Which herbs have traditionally been used to repel them?
3. Which products can help you in your organic ant control efforts?

Is It Really Necessary?

If you mention in certain circles that you practice ant control in the yard, you're likely to have some smart aleck pipe up and rant, "That's not really necessary. These insects don't cause much damage to plants, so just leave them alone." But what your Mr. Know-It-All isn't recognizing in his rant is that, indirectly, ants can cause significant damage to plants.
Ants have a sweet tooth for honeydew, a substance secreted by insect pests such as aphids, scale and whitefly. Not content to take a "hunter-gatherer" approach to supplying themselves with honeydew, ants act as "farmers," herding around the insect pests that produce the honeydew. The herders protect these insect pests from predatory insects that would, otherwise, kill them.
Ant control, then, can be regarded as a measure to take against insect pests such aphids, scale and whitefly. Incidentally, as if the direct damage caused by these herded insect pests weren't sufficiently troubling to convince you that ant control is a legitimate concern, consider this: sooty mold, a fungus that often coats honeydew-stained plants, can damage a plant by depriving it of sufficient sunlight. Oh, and sooty mold turns ornamental plants into eyesores, too, by the way.
Now that you understand when and why it's necessary to take action, let's consider a few organic methods used to tackle the problem. Note also that, in addition to the organic tips discussed below, successes in organic ant control have been reported using everything from parasitic wasps to talcum powder.

Organic Ant Control With Companion Planting

As gardeners, I think we're enamored with the idea that the solution to one plant's problem may well lie in another plant. Indeed, companion planting has helped gardeners deal effectively -- and organically -- with pests for centuries. There are even companion-planting solutions for ant control. Specifically, the fragrance of certain herbs has been thought to repel certain insects, including ants.

Before I cite examples of plants used traditionally for organic ant control, however, let me issue a disclaimer. One gardener may swear that such and such an herb discourages ants; but that doesn't much help another gardener (living, perhaps, in a different region) who tries the same herb but fails to enjoy the same results. Remember that a given herb may not repel all types of ants. If you wish to try companion planting for organic ant control, be ready to experiment: Don't take anything as "the Gospel truth," or you may suffer disappointment.
Besides, the nice thing about companion planting is that, even if it fails, all you're "stuck" with (besides the insects you're fighting, that is) are some additional plants -- plants which you may end up liking so much for their ornamental value, etc. that you decide they're now must-haves for your yard (so you haven't wasted any money, at least).

Examples of Herbs Used in Organic Ant Control

Click on the links below to determine if lavender, sage, catnip or tansy might be plants you'd be interested in trying for organic ant control:

• Lavender
  
• Sage
  
• Catnip
  
• Tansy

In experimenting with herbs for organic ant control, remember that you have some leeway in terms of exactly how you use the plants. This is an important consideration when you realize that tansy, for example, can be among the worst invasive plants. So note carefully that you don't necessarily have to plant the herbs for organic ant control around your specimen plants.
Instead, you can harvest the leaves from the herbs (grown elsewhere), then simply strew the leaves around a specimen plant. If you suspect a plant to be overly aggressive, plant it in a raised bed, where you have more control over it. Remember, too, that you would be targeting only specimen plants susceptible to aphids, scale and whitefly when employing this ant control method.

Organic Ant Control Products

"But," perhaps you object, "I don't have time to experiment with traditional methods of ant control. Is there an organic product that I can buy in stores or on the Web?"  Fortunately, for the committed modernist, yes, there are organic products sold for getting rid of ants.

One such ant control product is the Tree Tanglefoot Pest Barrier, an organic paste composed primarily of sticky substances (waxes and resins) that act as a sort of "fly paper" for ants. Another is Orange Guard, which functions as both a repellent and an insecticide for getting rid of ants. Its active ingredient (d-Limonene) is organic: orange peel extract. Eco Exempt IC-2 is another organic insecticide for ant control, being composed of mineral, wintergreen and rosemary oils.

Final Thought on Getting Rid of Ants

In closing, let's return to my initial question of whether it's necessary to get rid of ants, at all.  I stated essentially that controlling aphids, scale and whitefly entails, in part, controlling ants. But the corollary of this conclusion (vis-a-vis the health of your specimen plants, at least) is that if you do not have a problem with aphids, scale or whitefly, then you may not have to worry about getting rid of ants, either: many ants are, in themselves, harmless.
So don't overdo it! In defense of ants, your Mr. Know-It-All would have been correct to point out that ants do prey on certain insect pests. Ant control can be counterproductive when practiced blindly.
If only ants didn't have such a sweet tooth!  Source: http://landscaping.about.com/od/pestcontrol/Organic_Pest_Control_for_lnsect_and_Rodent_Garden_Pests_.htm

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The Best Landscape Materials

The best way to get the most out of the landscape materials that you are going to use for your landscaping project is to do your study about the layout of the area and chalks out a plan of action regarding the design as well as timetable for completing the landscape undertaking. Having completed these preliminary steps you are then ready to pick and choose the best landscape materials that will make your project turn out just right.
Beautiful Landscape

You will of course, need to incorporate in your design all those factors that will help in creating a beautiful landscape and also those factors that will also compliment the property. Colors as well as kind of landscape materials must be chosen with great care and should fit in well with the materials being used in your home.
Stones are the most often used type of landscape materials and the reason for this widespread usage is that stones help in reflecting nature and they also signify durability as well as strength. This is the reason why nearly every landscape design incorporates use of stones. However, other landscape materials are also becoming popular and so today there are also bricks and cement that are also finding favor amongst buyers.
In fact, certain bricks are being especially manufactured for use in landscapes and they are especially well liked when used in homes that are already constructed by bricks. Most landscape designers tend to match landscape materials with the materials used in the home though some people do choose landscape materials regardless of the fact that these materials do not compliment the materials already used in the home.
When it comes to choosing landscape materials you can opt for designs that are oriental, or you could go with bamboo design as these will compliment the landscaped structures very well. The Internet holds a vast amount of useful information that you can tap into before making the final selection regarding proper landscape materials. Otherwise, you can ask a landscape specialist about the proper landscape materials for your garden or yard.

Today, backyards have become an area around the home where homeowners love to showcase a special kind of beauty and this has given rise to the need to buy suitable lawn and garden supplies that will help decorate a deck, patio or improve the landscaping.
For those people who are worried about their budget and who find that stones are landscape materials that are too costly to buy, they can use products made out of cement which are less costly and which are just as attractive as actual stones.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/taking-the-best-landscape-materials-3412745.html


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Hanging Plants Outdoors For An Oldschool Effect In Your Garden

Every variety of plant used in a design fits inside an imaginary line that defines the limits of the plant material pertinent to the kind of indoor and outdoor decorating where it will be used. Strictly speaking, vines are plants that cling to, or twine around, something that supports them as they grow upright. Their natural habit is vertical.

Turn the pot upside down, and the pliable stems will turn back and up toward overhead light. But there are hundreds of hanging or trailing plants - not true vines - that serve the same or similar decorative purposes because their long, arching stems either hang down or will grow upright when tied to a support. These are included because the picture would be incomplete without them.

An imaginary line gives a basis for excluding some borderline cases, like the orchids, bromeliads, and other plants that are effective in hanging baskets but do not have "viny" habits. It also excludes any creeping or trailing plants useful only as ground covers, but includes any that serve at least one additional decorative purpose.


It is fascinating to discover the ingenious appendages or characteristics nature gives plants to help them climb, cling, creep, or dangle. It is also important to distinguish between the different climbing and hanging habits, because they often determine the decorative use of the plant or the support that should be provided for it. All the plants described fit into one or more of the following categories.

Vines that climb by twining their stems usually require a thin support, like wire or cord, to twine around. They also have definite ideas about which way they will twine. The familiar bittersweet is one of many that insist on twining from left to right, or counterclockwise; Hall's honeysuckle twines from right to left, clockwise; and neither will change its habit, no matter what you do.

Vines that climb by twining tendrils (leaflike appendages, or modified leaves or flower stalks) are not usually so particular about which way they go so long as it is up. The tendrils of the passionflower vine form tight, wiry coils like bedsprings; some tendrils branch (the cissus tribe); some have blunt ends that curl into a hook; some are hooked and needle-sharp, like the doxantha.

Vines that climb by clinging with tendril discs actually combine two climbing tools - tendrils, and small adhesive discs at the tips. For example, when the center branch of the forked tendril of the Virginia creeper touches a surface, it gets busy twisting, turning, maneuvering to bring the other branches into contact too. Then the tip of each tendril develops a disc and seeps out an adhesive resin to hold it tight to its flat support.

Vines that climb by twining leaf-stems (sometimes flower-stems), like clematis, elongate the stems and curl them around a thin support.

Vines that climb by a modification of the leaf itself are fewer, but intriguing. The tapering tip of the gloriosa lily leaf, for example, looks much like a coiling tendril as it circles its support.

Vines that climb by clinging with rootlets from the stem, or sinking them into some porous surface, need no other support to help them climb a stone or brick wall. The ivies are of this type. Indoors, the climbing philodendrons attach themselves to bark or a moss pole in the same manner.

Hanging plants with long, lax, or arching stems make magnificent basket specimens if they are in proper scale. The variegated flowering maple is a fine example. For larger containers or for tying or training upright, vine-wise, in the garden or landscape, there are many semishrubs like jasmines and climbing roses. The latter, of course, help themselves along somewhat with thorns.

Plants that produce, runners - long, lax, stemlike extensions with new plants appearing at the ends - will hang gracefully from pots or baskets. The runners usually strike roots and establish themselves wherever they touch soil. Examples are the episcias and saxifragas.

Prostrate plants with creeping or trailing stems include a number of outdoor ground covers like pothos plants that root at intervals as they move over the soil, and some indoor gems like selaginellas and pileas.

Vining and other plants are classified as annuals, which flower the first season from seed; biennials, which flower the second season after sowing seed; and perennials, which live on from year to year. Perennials that will flower the first year from seed are often grown as annuals.

Perennials may be herbaceous, dying back to the ground in winter, or woody, with top growth persisting and growing on the following year. And woody perennials may be deciduous and drop their leaves in winter, or evergreen. The evergreens are further divided into types with needlelike leaves (conifers) or broad-leaved.

What better time than right now to explore and learn more on the subject of pothos plants. Take advantage of our years of experience, visit plant-care.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Higgins 

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The Greenest Lawn: Don't Settle For Less

Everybody wants their lawn to be as green as possible, right? Especially when summertime gets closer, lawn care will be a high priority for lots of people. As you think about all that must be done, consider showing off a greener, healthier lawn than ever before. When you drive through your street and see how splendidly green some lawns are, you must know this: The amount of nutrients the grass receive makes a big difference. Caring for your lawn in the best way is actually essential for the "green" it produces. Proper mowing, aerating and watering your lawn will result in a much greener yard.

You might be wondering why your lawn is not as green as you would like. One of the most common reasons for this is traffic. The amount of traffic your lawn receives can be a factor in how it looks like. If there are people moving through certain areas of your lawn, the much needed aeration through the soil will be disturbed. When that happens, the grass will have a lack of oxygen, which is never good. This situation can be solved by aerating your lawn. You may notice some flat areas on your lawn, or places where the soil is compact. If you do, then you most definitely must aerate the lawn. You can find the best aerating tools online.  To achieve the best results, be sure to aerate your lawn in springtime or maybe even fall. Whatever you do, DO NOT aerate your lawn during summer.


Another reason may be that it doesn't receive enough sunlight. Lawns that are shaded, for example by trees, have difficulty producing nice, green grass, simply because it's hard to receive the right amount of sunlight. If this is your case, what you have to do is trim the branches that stand in the way of the sunlight reaching the grass. If you need help with pruning or further advice on trimming trees, it's a good idea to consult a Arborist.

You can also help your lawn stay green by making sure the grass isn't being invaded by thatch and debris. The lawn must be raked consistently and it's important that you buy a good rake to remove thatch that are over half-inch long. What this does, is it allows for better aeration through your grass, as well as
proper movement of the essential nutrients in the grass and soil.

Knowing when to mow your lawn is crucial in keeping it looking its greenest. You must find that balance, and always be aware of the mowing height and clippings you use. The following measurements are usually applied: For grass that's a little more coarse, a 1 inch length can be maintained. Finer grass can be mowed to a 15 mm to 20 mm length. Too short may stress out the grass; to long will prevent water and sunlight to move properly into the soil.  You may have to adjust the height of your lawnmower to do this.

It can not be mentioned enough: Watering must be done right in order to maintain a great looking lawn! When and how to water your lawn is very important in making your grass greener. The best time to water your lawn is in the (early) morning. This way, the soil will absorb the water instead of it evaporating by the heat of the sun. You should also make sure you water the grass evenly instead of watering in sections. Of course, the easiest way to do this is using an irrigation system.

Last but certainly not least, your soil is a very important factor in helping your lawn to achieve it's greenest color. The texture with the grains should be just right, as well as the right pH balance. If one of these is a problem, the soil can easily be balanced out by adding compost or fertilizer. This in turn will give the grass the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and green. When selecting fertilizer for your lawn, always consider a few of things: Your type of soil, the problems you see the grass is having, and the time of year you are thinking of fertilizing. It's always a good idea to consult your local garden center.

So, if you want to have the greenest lawn in your street, remember this: The traffic and surroundings of your lawn, aeration, the right nutrients, mowing and watering your lawn the right way will contribute to a healthy, green lawn.
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_51456_27.html?ktrack=kcplink

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Landscape Water Conservation - Examples of Success

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How to Collect Rainwater

All conscientious allotment owners collect rainwater. Collecting rainwater is a good idea for two reasons: 1. doing so is environmentally responsible because it conserves natural resources, and 2. rainwater is better for your plants' health and well-being because tap water contains potentially unhealthy chemicals such as magnesium and calcium. These chemicals neutralize acidic soil which many plants need in order to flourish.

Rainwater tends to be slightly acidic on the pH scale because as rain falls, it picks up a bit of carbon dioxide which, in turn, causes the rainwater to become weak carbonic acid. This carbonic acid is natural and is not harmful to plants. What is harmful to plants, however, is rainwater that has fallen through polluted air and becomes acid rain. All in all, though, rainwater is better than tap water for plants because it's free and contains relatively fewer chemicals.


The process for collecting rainwater is simple. You'll want to install one or more water butts (also known as water tanks) to collect the rainwater. A good idea would be to install two or even three butts to collect additional water that you'll need in the hot, dry months of the year. These additional tanks will also be useful if you find yourself experiencing a sudden hosepipe ban or restriction. Remember to keep the butts covered so they don't become breeding grounds for algae and/or mosquitoes.

To create an easy and effective drip system for watering your plants, hook up a drip irrigation system or a length of leaky hose to your water butt. Then bury it in and among your plants so they can directly receive adequate irrigation.

Some plants such as potted plants require more water than others. To provide for them adequately, try taking an upside-down carbonated drink bottle and poking a few holes in the lid. Then fill the bottle with water and stick it into the ground near the plants' roots. This strategy makes superior drip feeders for drought-sensitive plants.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shaz_Mkenzy

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Statues: Lions, Dragons, Angels, And Garden Gnomes, Oh My!

Statues are a symbol, a representation of a person, an animal, or an event. They are detailed and elaborate and provide insight to the past or are just fun depictions of daily life. Statues are also often seen in a town square or in an art gallery or museum. We gaze at the statues with awe and wonderment, gazing at their magnificence. But what if we are able to take statues and bring them into our homes? They may not be life size or grand, but they can certainly add a unique look to your outdoor landscape. Statues help give your garden or patio character and theme. With many different types of statues to choose from, I’ve selected a few styles that will create a dramatic and refreshing look to your already growing garden.Animal Statuaries


Statues of animals give the backyard a playful and laid back look. If you’re an animal lover, collecting animal statues around the yard show your love and dedication to any playful creature. In essence, you may start your own “zoo” of animal statues. Here are a few animal status to consider adding:
Copper Lion Wall Sconce

A combination of classic and bold designs forms this majestic lion sculpture. Highly skilled, old-world artisans used modern techniques to create this intricately detailed piece. Each sculpture is made by hand in order to meet the highest standards of quality. A lightweight copper glass is coated with pure copper metal and then treated to produce a long-lasting and enjoyable work of art that will endure the elements of nature and withstand the passage of time.
Brass Dragon
Dragons are known to have spiritual importance and significance in various cultures and religions around the world. In Asian cultures, in particular, dragons are valued as a symbol of the ancient forces of nature, religion and the universe. Dragons are also associated with wisdom and are often said to be wiser than humans. This statue of a brass dragon will make a statement around your flower garden or pond. Made of brass and finished with a verdigris patina, this handcrafted statue will surely withstand the sun and the elements without having to worry about the color fading. It is also outfitted with the ability to include a water pump. The brass dragon statue displays a spray of water and is, therefore, perfect for ponds.
Sea Turtle
If you love the water and are a fan of creatures of the deep, then you may consider a sea turtle statue for your outdoor oasis. Sea turtles are graceful creatures that make their home in the sea, and will surface on the land to lay their eggs. This cast aluminum statue with a verdigris finish will immediately grab the attention of your guests.
Classical Statuaries

The classical era was a time period in which high culture and high art reigned. It is also known as the golden age, from the late 18th century to the early part of the 19th century. Here are a few examples of classic statues to incorporate into your outdoor environment:
Buddha Solar Fountain
Add a splash of Eastern flair with this Buddha statue. It also serves as a fountain, that operates by the rays of the sun. Considered to bring good luck if you own one, this Buddha solar fountain has water flow through the bronze-finished statue. Solar-on demand provides consistent performance even on overcast and cloudy days, using the patented technology combination of a battery and solar panel. This esoteric Buddha will bring peace and serenity to any area of the outdoors.
Miracles of Heaven Statue
With the good book laid out neatly on her lap, the angel spends a brief moment to pray. She may be praying for peace, hope, guidance, and love. This statue is a highly detailed whimsical sculpture that will make your garden seem like a good place to reflect and meditate life. It has the appearance of concrete, but is actually cast from lightweight, durable polystone. Polystone is a weather durable resin material that maintains the intricate detail of the artist’s original sculpture.
Lady Buddha
In addition to the male Buddha, add a Lady Buddha statue to your garden collection. Buddha in modern culture is the embodiment of enlightenment through peace and tranquility. The stunning, yet serene Lady Buddha is handcrafted of durable resin that will withstand the outdoor elements. With an antique look, intricate detailing, and the portrayal of Buddha in a meditative state, this statue will add a sense of calm to your outdoor environment.
Garden Gnomes
Garden gnomes were first introduced in the United Kingdom in the middle part of the 19th century by Sir Charles Isham. He brought almost two dozen garden gnomes home, made out of terra cotta, home from a trip to Germany and decorated his garden with the little statues. Today, garden gnomes have become a popular outdoor accent to many gardens. They are beautifully crafted by hand and made out of weather resistant cast-stone resin. Here are a few kinds of garden gnomes that will be sure to add a playful look to your backyard:

• Welcome to my Garden Gnome—he sits on top of the “welcome” sign, inviting all to enjoy the wonders of the outdoor garden
• Gnome Reading Book—this gnome is obtaining all of the knowledge his brain can absorb.
• Welcome Sign Gnomes—two gnomes carry a welcome sign with a tiny turtle to greet visitors new and old
• Bird Bath Leaf Gnome—this gnome is carrying a leaf in anticipation of feathered friends to stop by and splash around
• Laughing Gnome—always happy, this laughing gnome will be sure to make you smile.

Viewing a statue does not have to be done at a museum or park because you can now own one that is your very own. Garden Winds has a collection of statues for the animal lover, the art lover, and the silly garden gnome collector. Handcrafted with great detail and constructed out of durable materials, these types of statuaries will add wonder to an already magical garden.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/statues-lions-dragons-angels-and-garden-gnomes-oh-my-1863009.html


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How to Install an Outdoor Fountain in Your Garden Or Lawn

The soothing sounds of flowing water and its relaxing sight is such a delight to everyone. Adding outdoor fountains to your garden, whether indoor or outdoor, gives a more relaxing feel to your own space and adds up to the beauty that nature has to offer. These bamboo fountains can do the trick by lightening up your garden's ambience and setting the mood of your desire. Each has its own uniqueness to it, each showing a different perspective and personality.Garden decorative items not only add beauty to our gardens but help with relaxation at the same time. Some prefer outdoor fountains with gigantic statues so it catches attention that is also the garden centerpiece. Others prefer simpler fountains since they just want the cool and comforting feeling water fountains bring. For simpler choices, people may prefer bamboo water fountains, since they have that simplistic style and feel and at the same time serve the purpose of being a tool for relaxation and recreation (and to others, entertainment).


If you think that outdoor fountains can be costly, you definitely have to think twice. These bamboo water fountains can be used with your old or favorite planter, outdoor vase, and so on. Turn your old container into a outdoor fountain and it will surely turn out as a masterpiece. Bamboo fountains come in different sizes and styles which will perfectly reflect your garden's theme and mood.

The Adjustable Water Spout with Pump Bamboo Fountain exhibits adjustable arms for the desired height. This classic bamboo fountain comes in 5 different sizes which will suit an outdoor or indoor garden. Its adjustable feature is perfect for those people who want to set and change the mood every now and then.
The Three-Arm Bamboo Water Spout with Pump is ideal for people who like indoor water fountains. This sleek water fountain can fit shallow containers and match your own personal space. It comes in 3 different sizes.
The Fine-Arm Water Fountain Spout and Pump Kit features make it perfect for those wonderful Zen gardens or for indoor spas. It has a wide, low spout which makes no noise at all, showcasing the water's soothing sound. This classy water fountain comes in 2 sizes.
The Classic Water Spout with Pump has a unique Japanese style and authentic caramel color, perfect for those who want an oriental feel. This classic fountain is perfect for indoor spaces.
The Sphere Figurine with Bamboo Base Water Fountain has a different style to it, having a sphere figurine made of stone rest on a sturdy bamboo base while still having that simplistic yet elegant style to it. This elegant water fountain comes in 2 different sizes.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/feng-shui-articles/landscaping-tips-how-to-install-an-outdoor-fountain-in-your-garden-or-lawn-2865799.html


Tree Management:
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Planting Theraputic Scents In Your Garden

With the snow quickly fading from our yards and our memories, and our focus on the frozen returning to more positive chillers like ice cream & slurpees, it would seem that spring has been sprung upon us.

While we soak up the season, and all of its wonders, many of us will begin to plan out our summer gardens, both those from which we intend to harvest, and those serving other, more ethereal needs.

Whether you tend towards a well organized and thought out seedling propagation, or respond spur of the moment to the annuals available at your local nursery, garden arrangements are a superb way of beautifying your home, while maintaining an important connection between you, and your planet.




Many gardens are organized based on plant size, and even more commonly, coloration. Many gardeners target that visual 'pop' that defines beauty and individuality from their personal viewpoint, giving them many hours of joy throughout the summer months.

Another way of drawing pleasure from your garden is to consider plantings specifically for their aromatic elements. Most of us recognize the wondrous scents that emanate from our summer gardens as one of their most significant values, but how many of plant specifically to achieve those scents - in many cases, they are but a beautiful surprise.

To add abundant aromas to your garden's flavor this summer, we've assembled a listing of some plantings that are sure to add some special touches to your garden - one that you will be able to appreciate throughout the summer, and for years to come. Consider the following aromatic plantings, and create your own feast of nature:

Basil

The fragrances created by this popular herb add flavor to your garden, and to your cooking. Green basils provide some handsome leaves; or experiment with the Spicy Globe, glossy Genovese, and burly lemon. Some basils provide some intriguing purple hues - the smoky color of 'Osmin' for example. Basil, as is true with many herb plantings, longs to be touched. Rub the leaves gently, and experience the true range of aromas these herbs are capable of bringing to your garden, and your table.

Citrus

Add the refreshing aroma of citrus to your garden. Consider the popular Valencia tree for years of aromatic pleasure.

Fennel

This herb provides a robust licorice scent to your garden. Fennel is also said to invite valuable insect varieties that will serve your other plantings well.

Lavender

Ever popular Lavender is available in a wide range of varieties, all of which provide a scent experience that lets you know summer has arrived.

Mexican Orange

Plant a row of these puffy and wonderfully scented shrubs. Their flowers are especially fragrant on warm afternoons and evenings, and work beautifully with a property fence.

Night Bloomers

Consider night bloomers like Moonflower or Nicotiana Sylvestris around your favorite after hours spot - who says garden enjoyment need be limited to daylight...

Thyme

Thyme has been a popular herbal planting for many years. The creeping variety is said to be wonderful for placement between paving stones. Lemon and lime varieties add a special 'touchable scent' experience to your garden.

Verbena

Plant this highly popular scent, (recently popularized in the Zen Garden line of Tea Tree & Verbena products), and prepare for an olfactory event. Most known for its lemon variety, check with your local nursery for other special options available.

Scented Vines

If looking to create cover, why not add the element of scent, through the use of any one of these popular scented vines - Honeysuckle, Jasmine, or the ever popular climbing rose. Wisteria is also a fantastic spring bloomer that can get your summer off on the right foot!

Water

No, we're not suggesting water as a planting for your garden (although there's no arguing the special scents available only after a warm summer rain!), but for many of us, a soothing water feature has become the must have garden element of the year. Heading that direction? If so, consider adding some day blooming water lilies, sure to make your daily refuge even more special.

Be sure to take some risks as you develop your garden's personality - there are no mistakes in gardening, merely experiences that you decide to take forward another year. Allow yourself plenty of time, and some room for joyful experimentation so that you may develop a garden that is reflective of you, through its visual strengths, and its aromatic offerings. Every garden holds its surprises - we hope you are able to unearth the secrets buried within your own. Happy planting!

Source: A World Of Aroma Therapy

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