Horticulturalist and broadcaster David Domoney has revealed one aspect of our gardens that we often end up neglecting.
According to the gardening expert, we tend to limit our garden design ideas to three dimensions – time, smell and how the garden alters over the year. However, sound is a key feature that can elevate your outdoor space, and one we overlook.
Broadcaster and gardener David Domoney
Writing on his blog, David Domoney highlights just how important sound is in the garden. Anyone who has had to endure building work during lockdown – or has perhaps worked in an office on a busy road – will understand just how stressful unwanted background noise can be.
'Sound forms a huge part of how our brains build a picture of their environment,' writes David. 'It has a tremendous effect on whether or not we feel relaxed and at ease in that space.'
We head out into the garden for a moment of calm and quiet, so why not do everything we can to make it an extra relaxing experience through sound? 'We are aware of sound, even when we are not aware that we are aware of it,' comments David.
In most gardens, there will be some noise from the world beyond the fence, but there are lots of things you can do to change the soundtrack. For example, David Domoney says to consider the sound of your own footsteps.
Is the sound of gravel crunching underfoot nostalgic or pleasing to you, or would you prefer the muffled sound of soft woodchips? The materials you choose when planning your garden path ideas all have a part to play in creating your ideal soundscape.
Adding one or two new bird feeders will encourage birdsong, and picking your favorite wildlife garden ideas will invite buzzing bees and insects. David Domoney notes that bamboo will bring the sound of rustling leaves and the knocking of bamboo stalks when it's particularly windy.
A wind chime from Amazon is another cost-effective option that will make your garden feel tranquil with some gentle sound. And, last but not least, water feature ideas will also help to create a peaceful atmosphere with the incredibly calming sound of trickling water.
Don't let this important dimension of your garden design go forgotten any longer.
