Sunday, August 4, 2013

How to Make a Memorial Garden

How to Make a Memorial Garden

Planting a memorial garden provides survivors a chance to grieve and reflect while being inspired by a living and growing garden that honors a deceased friend or family member. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

How to Make a Memorial Garden

    1

    Choose the size and location of the garden. A memorial can be any size, from a small outdoor container of blooming flowers to a designated garden patch in a backyard. The space should provide privacy for reflection.

    2

    Consider using plants and trees that the loved one enjoyed. Plant herbs to incorporate favorite aromas such as lavender and lemon balm. Plant a loved one's preferred foods such as strawberries, tomatoes and even corn. Celebrate birth months by planting specific flowers. For example, Cosmos are October's birth flower.

    3

    Pick a dominant color or color combination if the loved one had a strong personal favorite. A red, white and blue combination can honor someone with strong military ties. A red and purple combination may be suitable for a woman who was part of The Red Hat Society.

    4

    Add garden art or objects to personalize the environment. Statues, signs and mementos can be added. Sit down with family members and friends and reminisce about favorite moments and how these memories can be reflected in the garden.

    5

    When there is not enough space for a memorial garden, choose a public spot. Many local parks and outdoor areas have benches and rest areas that can be dedicated to a loved one. Donate a rose bush or tree in memory and plant it at a local park. By dedicating something in a public location, the memorial can be enjoyed more openly and by more people.