Fragrant delights

To truly appreciate a garden it should be a sensory experience.

We all think about how our beds and borders look, but if you aren’t factoring in fragrance you are missing a whole extra dimension.

Smell is often thought of as the most evocative of the senses, imprinting itself firmly on our minds with memories of childhood and of people and places we have loved.

A garden filled with sweet perfumes invites us to stay and linger, to sit and relax, rather than rushing through to the next chore or obligation.

When choosing scented plants the first thing to bear in mind is that we all have our own personal tastes.

In the same way that some find their happiness in restful whites and others delight in hot pinks, the way we perceive smells is different to anyone else. So buy plants when they are in flower and trust your own nose. What someone else considers a heady scent could come across as ‘soapy’ to you; a delicate delight to you could be imperceptible to another.

Placement is key to getting the maximum enjoyment. Most obviously plant them around seating areas, but also by pathways, doorsteps, even by the washing line: places you will stay in for a while or pass by frequently.

Many flowers release their fragrance in the evening - in order to attract pollinating moths - so if you like to sit out late in the day, make sure you include some of these.

Among them are Nicotiana and many common climbers. In your hanging baskets use the Petunias that smell nicest to you.

It’s not just about the flowers: a lot of plants have aromatic leaves. Most release stronger scents when touched, so get tactile with plants when making choices at the nursery, and place in areas where they are likely to get brushed against.

Herbs are especially good for this, including lemon verbena and the many types of mints.

Get inspired at www.katiesgarden.co.uk/plantingthemes