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June 2, 2009
 From Japanese Zen gardens to Monastic Cloister gardens, plants and gardens have been used in the healing process throughout history.
Temple University Ambler’s newest garden, the Ernesta Ballard Healing Garden, exemplifies the use of gardens as healing spaces from ancient times to the present day.
In the here and now — following a few simple design concepts — gardens can create healing spaces of their own on almost any scale.
Design Principles
A successful healing garden includes design principles such as simplicity, balance, and symmetry. Create a focal point with special specimen plants, flowering groves, and thickets and include a special feature, such as a labyrinth, for spiritual renewal.
Create “A Place Apart”
Design a getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. A secluded garden provides privacy and allows for contemplative reflection and meditation. Locate the garden away from noise and include comfortable seating in sunny and shaded areas.
Provide Transition Points
An inviting entrance and easy-to-follow pathways encourage visitors to visit the garden. Clear transition zones between public and private spaces will ensure that each space is used for its specific purpose.
Feature Water Elements
Water in a healing garden offers many benefits. The sight and sound of bubbling water is soothing and reduces stress. Moving water suggests energy and attracts birds and wildlife. A quiet pond promotes serenity.
Generate Color
Be sure to consider color in your garden planting design. Warm colors (reds, yellows, and oranges) inspire cheerful feelings. Cool colors (blues, greens, and purples) evoke feelings of peace and harmony. Welcome wildlife into your garden — birds, for example, are attracted by red plants.
Include Texture
Texture adds visual and tactile experiences to any garden. Use plants, hardscape materials such as stone and wood and other design features to create a variety of textures. Paths should be smooth enough to allow for easy passage, and coarse enough to avoid glare and slipping.
Plan for Fragrance
Many flowers and leaves provide your garden with pleasing fragrances. Fragrances often trigger past memories and can create a lasting sensory experience. Balanced fragrances will entice, rather than overwhelm, visitors.
Additional Components
Use your imagination — add other design components to maximize your healing garden experience. Attractive lighting allows for evening visits. Artwork, wind chimes, an aviary, and birdhouses all entertain the senses.
Compiled by Temple University Ambler Landscape Architecture and Horticulture students in the 2006 Design – Build Studio that developed the ‘Nature Nurtures – Mind, Body, Spirit’ Philadelphia Flower Show Exhibit. Faculty: Derik Sutphin and Pauline Hurley-Kurtz.
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