Using Clever Garden Design To Create A Beautiful Calming Space | Discovery | Gardening Australia

When we think of a garden, we often think of it as a place to relax and unwind. But what if a garden could do more than just provide a beautiful backdrop for our leisure time? What if a garden could actually make us feel something, truly connect us to nature, and contribute to our overall well-being?

That's precisely the intention behind the well-being gardens at the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, these gardens have been carefully designed to create a sense of homecoming, a place where visitors don't just appreciate the natural world, but actually feel like a part of it.

The Fern Gully: A Cool Oasis

One of the key features of the well-being gardens is the Fern Gully, a remarkable space that exudes life and tranquility. Andrew Laidlaw, the landscape architect behind the design, describes it as one of the coolest places close to Melbourne, often three to four degrees cooler than the surrounding area.

As we walk along the pathways, Laidlaw explains that these smaller paths lead to three health and well-being gardens, offering visitors a more intimate experience. Being surrounded by greenery is crucial in these tranquil gardens, as it creates a sense of calm and comfort. Laidlaw emphasizes the importance of diversity in the gardens, as it not only adds visual interest but also ensures the well-being of insects and other creatures. It's a reminder that we are just a part of something much bigger than ourselves.

The Moss Garden: A Sanctuary of Serenity

Moving on from the Fern Gully, we enter the Moss Garden, a place that evokes a deep sense of calm. The design of this garden aims to envelop visitors in a feeling of tranquility, with the moss-covered ground and lush greenery creating a serene atmosphere. This garden reminds us of the importance of being surrounded by nature, as it has a profound impact on our well-being.

Laidlaw explains that the Moss Garden, like the other well-being gardens, was inspired by a donor's personal experience. In this case, the garden was meant to honor the loss of a loved one. The centerpiece of the garden is the motherstone, a continuously flowing wellspring crafted by artisan Ashika. Its eternal movement symbolizes the cycle of life and death, a poignant reminder that even in the face of loss, life continues to give.

The Bird's Nest: A Nest of Nurturing

Continuing our journey, we arrive at the Bird's Nest, a circular space that symbolizes nurturing and being held. The design of this garden was influenced by a tree that serves as the "tree of life." Its anchor roots and buttresses represent the strength and support that nature provides.

Within the Bird's Nest, we find bird nest ferns and a beautiful artwork called the Chrysalis, created by artist David Wong. This artwork is inspired by the nest of a bird and encourages visitors to sit, contemplate, and reflect on the tree of life. As we explore further, we discover that the path in this garden is wheelchair accessible, showcasing the inclusive nature of these well-being gardens.

The Grotto Garden: Finding Yourself in Nature

Our final stop on this journey through the well-being gardens is the Grotto Garden. This garden, with its circular shape and surrounding greenery, draws inspiration from the idea of a grotto. Historically, grottos have been places where people seek solace and connect deeply with nature.

Laidlaw points out the subtle touches that make this garden unique, such as the mosaic made from crockery collected over the years. These pieces hold stories of picnickers from a time before plastic was invented, adding a touch of history and charm to the space. The sitting stones, which are placed in this garden, were sourced from a donor's property and serve as a powerful connection to their loved one who has passed away.

Stories of Love and Loss

What makes these well-being gardens truly special are the stories behind them. Each garden was inspired by personal experiences of loss and an appreciation for the power of nature to heal. The donors of these gardens wanted to honor lives and stories beyond their own, creating spaces that would bring comfort and joy to everyone who visits.

These gardens serve as a reminder that when we spend time in nature, we bring our own stories with us. They provide a beautiful and serene setting for reflection, allowing us to connect with ourselves and the world around us. Whether it's sitting in the Moss Garden or contemplating the tree of life in the Bird's Nest, these gardens invite us to think about our own stories and find solace in the beauty of nature.

In a world filled with chaos and distractions, these well-being gardens offer a sanctuary of calm and introspection. They remind us of our place in the natural world and the importance of nurturing our own well-being. So, the next time you visit a garden, take a moment to truly immerse yourself in its beauty and let it embrace you like a loving homecoming.